Acetaminophen Linked to Rare, Deadly Skin Reactions

Acetaminophen, one of the most widely used pain reliever/fever reducers on the market in the United States is associated with 3 rare but serious skin reactions that cause blistering, rash, and sometimes death. 

Two of the diseases –Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis are characterized by flu-like symptoms followed by blistering.  Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis typically involves the sudden reddening of the skin and the appearance of small pus-filled blisters. 

"This new information is not intended to worry consumers or health care professionals, nor is it meant to encourage them to choose other medications," says Sharon Hertz, M.D., deputy director of FDA's Division of Anesthesia, Analgesia and Addiction.

"However, it is extremely important that people recognize and react quickly to the initial symptoms of these rare but serious, side effects, which are potentially fatal."

Warnings of the skin reactions will be required on all prescription medications containing acetaminophen, as well as over-the-counter brands. 

For more information, visit the FDA.

–Michael Potts

Reference:

FDA Warns of Rare Acetaminophen Risk [press release].  U.S. Food and Drug Administration. http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm363010.htm?source=govdelivery. Published August 2, 2013.  Accessed August 5, 2013.