Brain Health D.C.

Hi friends,
As we move through flu season, I wanted to take a moment to talk about something that may not be on your radar: acetaminophen safety. With so many people trying to manage flu-like symptoms and discomfort, it's easy to reach for over-the-counter medications without a second thought. But did you know that taking too much acetaminophen (commonly found in Tylenol and many other cold and flu remedies) can cause serious health issues, including liver damage?

I’m here to help you navigate this topic with clarity and care, so you can stay safe while managing your health this season.

Why Acetaminophen Overdose Happens

Acetaminophen is one of the most common active ingredients in over-the-counter and prescription medications—used for pain relief, reducing fevers, and even as part of multi-symptom cold and flu products. What many people don’t realize is that it’s often included in several products they may take simultaneously. For example, you might take Tylenol for a headache and then grab a cold-and-flu medication later in the day—without realizing both contain acetaminophen.

When combined, the doses can add up quickly, surpassing the safe daily limit of 4,000 milligrams. This can happen faster than you think, especially if you take doses too close together or don’t check the active ingredients in each medication.

The Risks of Overuse

Taking more than the recommended amount of acetaminophen can lead to serious health consequences, including:

• Liver Toxicity: This can cause nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain early on, progressing to severe liver damage or even liver failure if untreated.
• Kidney Damage: Overuse of acetaminophen can strain kidney function, potentially leading to long-term issues.
• Severe Outcomes: In extreme cases, acetaminophen overdose can result in hospitalization or death.

Tips to Stay Safe

Here are some simple steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones during flu season:

1. Check All Labels: Before taking any medication, whether over-the-counter or prescription, read the label carefully to see if acetaminophen is an active ingredient, .
2. Track Your Dosage: Keep track of how much acetaminophen you’re taking in a 24-hour period, especially if you’re using multiple medications.
3. Space Out Doses: Follow the instructions on the label, and never take doses closer together than recommended.
4. Use Only What You Need: If you’re only dealing with a fever or body aches, choose a single-ingredient medication instead of multi-symptom products to avoid unnecessary exposure.
5. Seek Help Quickly: If you suspect you or a loved one has taken too much acetaminophen, seek medical attention immediately. Treatments like N-acetylcysteine (NAC) can reverse the effects if administered early.

A Holistic Approach to Flu Season

Flu season can be tough, but there are plenty of ways to support your immune system naturally and minimize the need for medications:

• Focus on Nutrition: Include anti-inflammatory foods, like leafy greens, berries, and turmeric, to support your body’s healing process.
• Hydration Matters: Drink plenty of water, herbal teas, or warm broths to stay hydrated and flush out toxins.
• Rest and Recovery: Allow your body time to heal by prioritizing sleep and reducing stress.
• Natural Remedies: Ginger, honey, and elderberry can help soothe symptoms like sore throats and congestion.

My Mission Is Your Health

As someone who has experienced health challenges firsthand, I understand how easy it is to feel overwhelmed or unsure about what’s safe during times of illness. At Brain Health D.C., I am committed to empowering you with knowledge, personalized care, and tools to thrive—not just survive—through every season.

Let’s take care of our bodies with love and awareness. If you have any questions about how to manage flu symptoms naturally or want to explore functional medicine approaches to wellness, I’m here to help.

Wishing you a safe and healthy flu season,
Dr. Nisreen Tayebjee
Brain Health D.C.

📞 Call: (858) 208-0710
📍 Visit: 1905 Calle Barcelona, Suite 234, Carlsbad, CA
🌐 Learn more: www.brainhealthdc.com

Take charge of your health—it’s the best gift you can give yourself this season!

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Contact Poison Control right away if you suspect a poisoning. Help is available online with webPOISONCONTROL® or by phone at 1-800-222-1222.

The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) is your best resource for any animal poison-related emergency, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. If you think your pet may have ingested a potentially poisonous substance, call (888) 426-4435. (Note that a consultation fee may apply).