What ingredient(s) make up Tylenol?
Tylenol is a brand of medicines whose active ingredient is acetaminophen (also spelled paracetamol in some countries) [1].
What else is in Tylenol besides acetaminophen?
In addition to the active ingredient, the specific Tylenol product can contain inactive ingredients (for example, binders, fillers, coatings, or flavorings), which vary by the exact formulation such as tablets, caplets, gelcaps, or liquid [1]. To see the exact inactive ingredients, you need to match the ingredient list on the specific Tylenol box or bottle you have.
Which Tylenol products are acetaminophen?
Many Tylenol products use acetaminophen as the active ingredient, but some may be labeled differently depending on the formulation (for example, products combined with other drugs). The sure way to confirm is the “Active ingredient” line on your package [1].
How much acetaminophen is in a dose?
The amount of acetaminophen per pill or per teaspoon depends on the product strength (for example, extra strength vs. regular strength, and tablet vs. liquid). Check the “Drug Facts” section for the exact milligrams per unit dose [1].
Why knowing the ingredients matters (dosing and safety)
Because acetaminophen is the common active ingredient in Tylenol, people often accidentally take too much by combining Tylenol with other cold/flu or pain products that also contain acetaminophen [1]. This is why the “active ingredient” list on any other medicines you take matters.
Where to find the exact ingredient list for your Tylenol
Look at the Drug Facts panel on your exact product. It lists the active ingredient (acetaminophen) and the inactive ingredients specific to that formulation [1].
Sources:
1. https://www.tylenol.com/products