Acetaminophen is a synthesized compound. It is synthesized from p-Aminophenol. p-Aminophenol + acetic anhydride  Acetaminophen + acetic acid

 Acetaminophen was first clinically used in 1893  It did not appear commercially until 1950 in the United States  Discovered by Charles Frederic Gerhardt in 1852

Acetaminophen is synthesized for use in over 600 OTC (over the counter) and prescription drugs. It is a major ingredient in cold and flu remedies.

By synthesizing p-Aminophenol into Acetaminophen it allows us to use it in many pharmaceuticals.

Acetaminophen has very few direct risks. If taken as directed and not above the daily maximum dose, it has mild to no side effects. If as little as 25% above the maximum daily dose is taken, liver damage may occur.

 Prolonged daily use increases risks of upper gastrointestinal complications, such as stomach bleeding, also kidney or liver failure  Chronic users may have a higher risk of blood cancer  Rare cases may cause severe skin reaction

 Pain and fever relief  Treats inflammatory pain  Relieves headaches, muscle aches, arthritis pain, backaches, toothaches, colds, etc  Safe for use during pregnancy

There is not many alternatives that have little to no side effects, most other OTC pain relievers have more side effects. Brand names that contain acetaminophen include:  Tylenol  Panadol  Tempra  Midol

By: Rebecca Smith Chemistry 11