Acetaminophen is an active ingredient in many over-the-counter and prescription medicines used to relieve pain or reduce a fever.

According to the Food and Drug Administration, acetaminophen is generally safe at recommended doses, but if you take more than that, even just a little more, it can cause serious, even fatal liver damage.

If you're taking an over-the-counter medicine, look for the name acetaminophen on the Drug Facts label under the section "Active Ingredients." If you take several medicines, including prescriptions, that all contain acetaminophen, you might take more than the
recommended dose without realizing it.