Common Pain Reliever Usage Recommendations Updated

Horizons in Hemophilia, August 2009

By Penny Kumpf, RN, VWD Outreach Nurse

People who have bleeding disorders frequently use Tylenol, generic acetaminophen or other pain medications which contain acetaminophen (e.g. Vicodin and Percocet) for pain relief.  However, taking too much acetaminophen may cause liver damage, especially if you are using a combination medicine such as Percocet and taking more than the recommended dose. 

The FDA recently released a report on acetaminophen and liver injury.  Please read the report here: 

Acetaminophen and Liver Injury: Q & A for Consumers https://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm168830.htm

As always if you have any questions or concerns about medication it is wise to check with your health care provider before you start using anything new.  Another option for handling pain is to remember RICE:

R = Rest
I = Ice
C = Compression
E = Elevation

Years ago RICE was the only way to treat a bleed. This old technique still applies and is great to use along with or instead of pain relieving medication.