Over The Counter & Prescription Drugs / Question
Published: November 26, 2003
Dear TeenHealthFX,
About 2 weeks ago, I had a Tylenol overdose and I got really sick. I had nausea, and vomiting. I vomited all I had to eat that day and this bitter yellow substance from my stomach. After that incident, I frequently need to go urinate, about 3-4 times in an hour. I lost my appetite for a few days, then I gained it back, but when I did, my metabolism went down. I have gained 8 pounds in a week. I haven't lost the weight yet. I usually have a very high metabolism. But I don't know what happened. And my period is late. I still haven't got it yet.
Signed: What's Going On With Body After Tylenol OD
Dear What's Going On With Body After Tylenol OD,
The symptoms you are experiencing are consistent with a Tylenol overdose. The active ingredient, acetaminophen, is what can cause these dangers when too much is taken. The symptoms of overdose include: nausea, appetite loss and vomiting. Severe cases can cause liver damage and even death. Depending on the amount and strength of the Tylenol you took these reactions can vary. You should be under the supervision of a doctor as soon as possible, you may have caused some liver damage.
Many over-the-counter medications contain acetaminophen and if you are taking more than one it is very easy to overdose accidentally. When using any medications it is important to read the instructions and ingredients very carefully and take the prescribed dosage.
You do not say whether the overdose was intentional or not - either way you should see your doctor as soon as possible if you have not done so already. Tell your doctor how many Tylenol you took and what ever else was going on so he or she can treat you properly. It is very likely that changes you have noticed are related to the overdose and your doctor can help you feel better.
If your overdose was intentional it is important that you get help immediately. If you live in northern New Jersey you can call the ACCESS Center at Atlantic Behavioral Health at 888.247.1400. Outside this area you can log on the US Department of Health and Human Services Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website for referrals in your area.
If you think you are in danger of hurting yourself, dial 9-1-1. In northern New Jersey, you can call the Crisis Hotline at Morristown Memorial Hospital at 973.540.0100. Outside of this area you can call the Suicide & Crisis Hotline at 800.999.9999.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
Adolescents are more likely than young adults to become dependent on prescription medications.
