Tylenol 4 is a prescription pain medication for moderate to severe pain. It combines two active ingredients to provide effective relief.
What Tylenol 4 Contains
Each tablet of Tylenol 4, also known as Tylenol with Codeine #4, contains 60 milligrams (mg) of codeine phosphate and 300 mg of acetaminophen. Codeine is an opioid analgesic that acts on the central nervous system, altering how the body perceives and responds to pain signals.
Acetaminophen, a non-opioid analgesic and antipyretic, complements codeine’s pain-relieving effects. It works by increasing the body’s pain threshold and can also reduce fever. This combination allows for a more comprehensive approach to pain management, targeting pain not adequately controlled by non-opioid medications alone.
Purpose and Administration
Tylenol 4 is primarily prescribed for moderate to severe pain, including acute conditions like discomfort following surgery, injuries, or other medical procedures. It is intended for short-term use, not chronic pain management.
The typical adult dosage is one tablet every four to six hours as needed. Patients should never exceed six tablets within a 24-hour period. Strict adherence to a doctor’s prescription is crucial, as dosage can vary based on individual needs.
Important Considerations
Tylenol 4 has several important considerations, including potential side effects and risks. Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and constipation. More severe, though less common, side effects include labored or slowed breathing.
A primary concern with Tylenol 4 is the risk of dependence and addiction due to its codeine component, an opioid. While addiction is less likely when used as prescribed for acute pain, misuse or prolonged use can increase this risk. Overdose is another serious danger, with both ingredients contributing to distinct toxicities.
Too much acetaminophen can lead to severe, fatal liver damage. Adults should not consume more than 4,000 mg (4 grams) of acetaminophen in a 24-hour period from all sources. Symptoms of liver damage include abdominal pain, dark urine, yellowing of the skin or eyes, and nausea.
Regulatory Framework and Responsible Use
Given its opioid content, Tylenol 4 is classified as a controlled substance due to its potential for abuse and dependence. In the United States, products containing less than 90 milligrams of codeine per dosage unit, such as Tylenol with Codeine, are typically categorized as Schedule III controlled substances. This classification means that while it has accepted medical uses, it carries a moderate to low potential for physical dependence and a high potential for psychological dependence.
This regulatory status mandates that Tylenol 4 is only available with a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. Strict rules govern its dispensing and handling. Sharing, selling, or distributing this medication to others is illegal and carries severe penalties.
Responsible use involves proper storage to prevent accidental ingestion or misuse, especially by children. Medications should be kept in a secure location, out of reach and sight. When no longer needed, safe disposal methods, such as drug take-back programs or pharmacist instructions, should be followed to prevent contamination or diversion. It is crucial never to exceed the prescribed dose, and to consult a doctor if pain management remains inadequate.