: Effects of taking too much painkillers What side effect or health damages will occur if a person takes too much pain killer medicine?

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Yes, taking too much painkiller can be harmful. Two common painkillers are acetaminophen (brand name Tylenol) and ibuprofen (brand name Advil). They each have different risks.

Paracetamol / Acetaminophen

The maximum daily dose is 3,000 mg. With the 650 mg extended release pills, the daily limit is just 4 pills. Never consume more than 4,000 mg in a 24 hour period. Passing either of these limits may result in liver damage and/or death.

Between 2001 and 2010, more than 1,500 people in the U.S. died from accidental acetaminophen overdoses. Source

The amounts specified are for a fully-grown adult; the maximum dose for children is lower. Consult with a pediatrician for advice on giving painkillers to children.

Ibuprofen

The maximum daily dose of Ibuprofen is 2,400 mg. Most pills are 200 mg each, so the daily limit is 12 pills. Exceeding this limit is likely to cause the development of stomach ulcers (a break in the mucous membrane that fails to heal).

The amounts specified are for a fully-grown adult; the maximum dose for children is lower. Consult with a pediatrician for advice on giving painkillers to children.