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Narcotic Analgesics and Acetaminophen (Oral Route)

US Brand Names

Description

Combination medicines containing narcotic analgesics and acetaminophen are used to relieve pain. A narcotic analgesic and acetaminophen used together may provide better pain relief than either medicine used alone. In some cases, relief of pain may come at lower doses of each medicine.

Narcotic analgesics act in the central nervous system (CNS) to relieve pain. Many of their side effects are also caused by actions in the CNS. When narcotics are used for a long time, your body may get used to them so that larger amounts are needed to relieve pain. This is called tolerance to the medicine. Also, when narcotics are used for a long time or in large doses, they may become habit-forming (causing mental or physical dependence). Physical dependence may lead to withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking the medicine.

Acetaminophen does not become habit-forming when taken for a long time or in large doses, but it may cause other unwanted effects, including liver damage, if too much is taken.

These medicines are available only with your doctor's prescription. In Canada, some acetaminophen, codeine, and caffeine combinations are available without a prescription.

This product is available in the following dosage forms:

• Tablet
• Solution
• Elixir
• Capsule
• Liquid
• Syrup
• Suspension

DR602295

Nov. 1, 2009

Source: Drug Information provided by: Micromedex

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