Taking care of your child is the number one priority for all caring parents in this world. Tylenol for infants has become a pain relief option that many turn to. However, while Tylenol can be effective, it isn’t the safest option for your young ones. 

Read on to learn about the dangers of acetaminophen and discover the best Tylenol alternative for your infants. 

Acetaminophen 

Acetaminophen, also known as Tylenol, can treat pain that is mild or moderate in severity. This pain includes pain from muscle aches, toothaches, headaches, sore throats, cold symptoms, menstrual periods, backaches, and osteoarthritis. On top of relieving pain, it also serves as a fever reducer or antipyretic. 

This medication is typically over-the-counter (OTC) that can come in various forms. These include tablets, liquid, capsule, chewable, and extended-release tablets. Even though it is an OTC medication, there are some cases in which your doctor may prescribe them for a certain amount of time. 

Often, acetaminophen will be combined with other medication targeting specific symptoms like a cough or sore throat. It is best to ask your doctor which medication they recommend for your particular situation in these cases. 

The Risks of Acetaminophen 

Like most medications, acetaminophen comes with its own set of risks. It is always important to talk to your doctor before taking medications. Make sure they are informed of your allergies, current medications, supplements, and whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Also, be sure to tell your doctor of any issues after taking the drug. 

Always read the label for side effects and dosing directions (unless a doctor has changed your dose). With acetaminophen, there are a few side effects to be aware of, and, like many medications out there, it is possible to overdose with it. Overdosing on acetaminophen causes “Acetaminophen Toxicity.” 

Acetaminophen Toxicity 

Acetaminophen Toxicity is most common in children who have either taken too much acetaminophen at once or taken the correct amount for too long. This specific drug is particularly hard on the liver, and too much of it can cause toxins to build up and lead to vomiting, liver damage, and even death. 

While it can quickly happen to children, it can also occur to adults. It is crucial to closely monitor your dose and ensure that you aren’t overdoing it. 

Side Effects 

Other possible side effects from taking acetaminophen include:

• Red skin 
• Itchy skin
• Blistering skin
• Peeling skin
• Hoarseness 
• Trouble swallowing 
• Trouble breathing 
• Hives 
• Rashes 
• Swelling of various body parts such as feet, hands, throat, eyes, tongue, face, and lips. 

The Recommended Dose for Children

Unfortunately, there is no simple answer to this question. Each child is unique in their way and will require a dose that is specific to them. The right dose for your child depends on their weight, age, medication formulation (by pill or by liquid solution), and other drugs or supplements they may be taking. 

It is up to you to provide your doctor with the correct information so that they can make the most accurate judgment on what dose your child should be taking. It’s always important to take note of any acetaminophen that may be in your child’s cold and flu medication to monitor the amount they are taking accurately.

The Best Alternative to Acetaminophen 

Even carefully monitoring your child's intake of acetaminophen and getting the right prescription from your healthcare provider can still cause issues in your child's health. This is because drugs like Tylenol are made by combining an active ingredient with several inactive ingredients that can cause unwanted effects when taken alongside other medications and supplements. In many cases, it may be best to avoid Tylenol together and give your child a better alternative for mild to moderate pain relief. This is especially true for your young children and infants. 

The best infants Tylenol alternative is Genexa’s Infants’ Pain and Fever. This medication is completely clean and made with the same active ingredient as Tylenol for Children. It just doesn’t have any of the artificial inactive ingredients. Making it a much better option for your young ones.  

Summary 

Acetaminophen, also known as Tylenol, is a widely known OTC medication to relieve mild to moderate pain and reduce fever. But, like many medications, it comes with its fair share of risks and side effects. 

When it comes to your young ones, you want to make sure they are as safe and comfortable as possible. Making sure their pain relief medication is given in proper doses and made with clean ingredients is the best way to go about that.

Sources:

Acetaminophen | Meline Plus

Acetaminophen Toxicity in Children and Adolescents | Cleveland Clinic