Ingredient

Acetaminophen

Acetaminophen is a medication used to relieve pain and reduce fever.

See medicines used for Cold / Congestion / CoughSee medicines used for Mental & Nervous SystemSee medicines used for Headache / Pain ReliefSee medicines used for Pediatric / Children's Medicine
All medicines
1280
Single ingredient
149
Combination
1131
Prescription medication
365
OTC medication
915

MFDS ingredient code M040353

What does it do?

Acetaminophen is primarily used as an analgesic and antipyretic to reduce pain and lower fever. Unlike nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, it is widely used due to its lower gastrointestinal burden.

Acetaminophen alleviates pain by inhibiting the production of substances that transmit pain signals in the brain. It also acts on the temperature-regulating center to have a fever-reducing effect.

Commonly used for

Approved uses differ by product. Check each product's information for its actual use.

Good to know

Acetaminophen has limited anti-inflammatory effects, making it less effective in reducing inflammation. Its lower risk of gastrointestinal disturbances distinguishes it from other analgesics, but overdose can pose a risk of liver damage.

Medicines containing this ingredient

Even with the same ingredient, strength, dosage form and how it is taken can differ.

Category
Dosage form
Strength
Category

1280 total

View more

Even with the same ingredient, dosage and approved uses can differ by strength, dosage form and combined ingredients. Check each product's information before taking it.

Combined ingredients

Ingredients used together with this ingredient in combination products.

Questions about this ingredient

  • QIs it okay to take on an empty stomach?

    Acetaminophen generally has less gastric irritation than other antipyretic analgesics and can often be taken on an empty stomach. However, the dosage instructions may vary among products, so please check the instructions, and if you consume alcohol daily or have liver disease, consult a pharmacist before taking it.

    Answers 1 · 2026.09.14

  • QWhat is the maximum amount that can be taken in a day?

    Follow the recommended dosages for each product, but the total daily amount of acetaminophen for adults should not exceed 4,000mg. If you consume alcohol daily or have liver disease, taking less than this amount could still pose a burden, so please consult a pharmacist.

    Answers 1 · 2026.09.14

  • QAre there cases where both cold medicine and headache medicine contain the same ingredients?

    Yes, acetaminophen is commonly found in both fever and pain-relief medications as well as in combination cold remedies. When taking multiple medications, please check the ingredient list for overlapping acetaminophen and be careful not to exceed the total daily amount.

    Answers 1 · 2026.09.14

See all questions

  • QHow is it different from ibuprofen?

    Both medications are used to reduce pain and fever, but ibuprofen has anti-inflammatory effects while acetaminophen has weaker anti-inflammatory properties but is less irritating to the stomach. Conversely, high doses of acetaminophen or using it with alcohol can burden the liver, so it is best to speak with a pharmacist about which medication is appropriate based on your symptoms and overall health status.

    Answers 1 · 2026.09.14

For anything that needs medical judgment, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

SourceKorea Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (Drug Safety Korea)

This drug information is based on data provided by the Korea Ministry of Food and Drug Safety.
Consult a doctor or pharmacist for accurate dosage, administration, and usage instructions.