Acetaminophen Use During Pregnancy

Topic Overview

While you are pregnant, you may also have other common problems, like a cold, mild headache, backache, mild fever, or the flu, that are not caused by your pregnancy. These minor symptoms generally do not cause problems or hurt your baby. It is safe to use acetaminophen, such as Tylenol, during pregnancy to help relieve discomfort or mild fever.

Acetaminophen dosage: The usual dose is 650 mg; recommended doses may range from 500 mg to 1,000 mg. You can take 650 mg every 4 hours or 1,000 mg every 6 hours in a 24-hour period. Do not take more than the maximum adult dose of 4,000 mg in a 24-hour period.

Be sure to follow these nonprescription medication precautions.

• Use, but do not exceed, the maximum recommended doses.
• Carefully read and follow all labels on the medicine bottle and box.
• Do not use other nonprescription medicines, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), until you have talked with your health professional.

Related Information

• Fever During Pregnancy
• Nonprescription Medicines and Products
• Pregnancy-Related Problems

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