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Bone Health Facts

Acetaminophen Use During Pregnancy

Acetaminophen is the most widely prescribed analgesic for use during pregnancy. Although this medication is approved for use in pregnant women, excessive amounts are known to cause liver failure, in both the mother and the fetus. It is therefore imperative that expectant mothers strictly monitor their intake of acetaminophen. Although acetaminophen is most commonly found in Tylenol, it is also found in many other over-the-counter medications. Keeping a list of these common medications handy throughout your pregnancy, and reading all ingredients before taking any medication, may prevent an accidental overdose.

In the event of an acetaminophen overdose, go to the emergency room immediately. The prompt administration of NAC (N-acetylcysteine) can reverse the effects of liver toxicity.

From "Acetaminophen Overdose in Pregnancy." by Dr. Jason M. Wilkes and colleagues. Southern Medical Journal. November 2005.

Chronic Pain and Abuse

Over 40% of women and 20% of men who suffer from chronic pain have a history of being abused: emotionally, physically, or sexually. Studies have found that a high percentage of patients who have been victims of abuse are likely to suffer from a variety of physical maladies, especially disorders such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, temporomandibular joint disease (TMJ), frequent headaches, depression, anxiety and/or panic attacks, chronic insomnia, and irritable bowel syndrome. Scientists have discovered structural and physiological changes in the brains of women who have endured abuse during childhood, and these changes may increase their susceptibility to pain later in life. Knowledge of the underlying causes of these chronic pain syndromes enables both physician and patient to more effectively manage the disease. The following treatment strategies are recommended for chronic pain syndromes in patients with an underlying history of trauma:

    1. Stress management and relaxation training
       Exercise
       Meditation
       Psychotherapy, including counseling and medication
       Biofeedback
    2. Natural/holistic treatment
       Physical therapy
       Massage therapy
       Acupuncture
       Supplements (B-complex vitamins, flaxseed oil, etc.)
    3. Medications
       Antidepressants
       Analgesics
       Narcotics, on a temporary basis

From "Psychosomatic Pain: New Insights and Management Strategies." By Dr. Jay J. Rubin. Southern Medical Journal. November 2005.

Jennifer McKinney, MA

Common over-the-counter medications with acetaminophen

Anacin    Pamprin
Benadryl  Sine-Off
Dristan   Sinutab
Excedrin  Sominex
Goody's   Sudafed
Midol     Tylenol