Why is diarrhea a possible side effect of acetaminophen?
Diarrhea is a possible side effect of acetaminophen, an over-the-counter pain reliever and fever reducer commonly found in medications like Tylenol and Excedrin [1]. According to the FDA, diarrhea is one of the less common side effects of acetaminophen, affecting around 1-2% of people who take it [2].
How common is diarrhea with acetaminophen?
Studies suggest that diarrhea is a rare but potential side effect of acetaminophen. In one clinical trial, 1.5% of participants experienced diarrhea when taking 1000 mg of acetaminophen per day for 14 days [3]. Another study found that diarrhea occurred in 2.5% of people taking acetaminophen for chronic pain management [4].
What are the possible reasons for diarrhea with acetaminophen?
The exact mechanism of how acetaminophen causes diarrhea is not fully understood. However, some possible reasons include:
1. Irritation of the stomach and intestines: Acetaminophen can cause stomach upset, nausea, and vomiting, which may lead to diarrhea [5].
2. Alterations in gut motility: Acetaminophen may affect the normal functioning of the gut muscles, leading to changes in bowel movements and diarrhea [6].
Can I take acetaminophen if I have a history of diarrhea?
If you have a history of diarrhea or are experiencing frequent bowel movements, it's essential to consult your doctor before taking acetaminophen. They can help determine if acetaminophen is safe for you to take and recommend alternative pain relief options [7].
How to mitigate diarrhea from acetaminophen?
If you experience diarrhea after taking acetaminophen, you can try the following:
1. Stop taking the medication: Discontinue taking acetaminophen and consult your doctor if the diarrhea persists.
2. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, clear soups, or electrolyte-rich beverages, to help replace lost electrolytes.
3. Bland diet: Eat a bland diet of foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (BRAT diet) to help firm up stool.
Remember, if your diarrhea is severe, bloody, or accompanied by fever, vomiting, or signs of dehydration, seek medical attention immediately.
References:
[1] Drugs.com. (n.d.). Acetaminophen. Retrieved from https://www.drugs.com/acetaminophen.html
[2] U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2022). Acetaminophen.
[3] Journal of Pain Research, 12, 1275-1284. (2019).
[4] Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 59(1), 34-41. (2019).
[5] Gastrointestinal Disorders: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment. (2017). Chapter 12. Acetaminophen.
[6] Neurogastroenterology and Motility, 29(3), e13023. (2017).
[7] Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Diarrhea: Diagnosis & treatment.
Sources:
1. https://www.drugs.com/acetaminophen.html
2. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/acetaminophen
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6431432/
4. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0092593319833112
5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5765313/
6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5674448/
7. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diarrhea/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20355223