Friday, July 03, 2009

FDA Advisers Urge Smaller Doses of Acetaminophen

On June 30, a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) panel recommended greater regulation of acetaminophen to reduce deadly overdoses and liver injury. Recommendations that affect people with arthritis include switching the 1,000 milligram dose to prescription status; limiting the maximum single dose of the drug to 650 milligrams; and lowering the maximum daily dose; eliminating prescription painkillers that combine acetaminophen with strong narcotics; and stronger labeling.
The continued concern over safety of arthritis pain relievers underscores the tremendous impact of arthritis on the nation, and the need for ongoing research for development of new medications, treatments and understanding of the disease. The Arthritis Foundation recommends patients discuss concerns with their physicians and stresses the importance of weight control and exercise, drug therapy and surgical options for the management of pain and functional limitations caused by arthritis.
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