Identifying unknown medications is an important safety measure, as many pills can look similar but contain different active ingredients. Misidentification or improper use of any medication, even over-the-counter varieties, can lead to unintended side effects or health risks.
What is the L484 Pill?
The pill with the imprint “L484” is acetaminophen 500 mg, a common over-the-counter (OTC) medication. It is a white, oblong tablet with the “L484” imprint on one side. This pill is used as a pain reliever and fever reducer.
Acetaminophen is the active ingredient in this medication, and the L484 imprint helps distinguish it from other products. It is not a narcotic or opioid, meaning it does not carry the same risks of addiction and abuse associated with those substances.
Understanding Acetaminophen’s Uses and How It Works
Acetaminophen relieves mild to moderate pain, including headaches, muscle aches, toothaches, and menstrual cramps. It is also effective in reducing fever.
While its exact mechanism is not fully understood, acetaminophen is believed to work primarily in the central nervous system, particularly the brain and spinal cord. One theory suggests it inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes in the brain, which are involved in producing prostaglandins, chemicals that contribute to pain and fever. This action helps to increase the body’s pain threshold and regulate temperature. For adults, the usual dosage for a 500 mg tablet is one to two tablets every four to six hours as needed. It is important not to exceed the maximum daily dose, which is typically 4000 mg (4 grams) within a 24-hour period.
Safety, Side Effects, and When to Seek Help
While generally safe when used as directed, acetaminophen can cause side effects, with liver damage being the most serious risk, especially with overdose. Exceeding the recommended dose or taking it with other acetaminophen-containing medications can lead to severe liver problems. Symptoms of liver damage may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, excessive sweating, and yellowing of the skin or eyes. These symptoms may not appear immediately, sometimes taking 24 to 72 hours to develop.
Consuming alcohol while taking acetaminophen significantly increases the risk of liver damage, as both substances are processed by the liver. This combination can lead to harmful byproducts that overwhelm the liver’s ability to detoxify them. If an overdose is suspected, or if symptoms of liver damage appear, seek immediate medical attention by calling emergency services or a poison control center. Store the medication in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, direct light, and out of reach of children. For disposal of unused medication, mix it with an unpalatable substance like dirt or used coffee grounds in a sealed bag before placing it in household trash to prevent misuse.