Which of the following are listed side effects of acetaminophen?

• A. N/V and hepatotoxicity
• B. Drowsiness
• C. Hypertension
• D. Rash

Answer: (A)

Acetaminophen’s main safety concern is liver injury from overdose, so hepatotoxicity is the adverse effect most emphasized. Nausea and vomiting are common early signs of acetaminophen toxicity, making that pairing the best match for its side effect profile. Drowsiness, hypertension, and rash are not typical or common adverse effects at therapeutic doses, with rash being a rare hypersensitivity occurrence and drowsiness or hypertension not characteristic of acetaminophen. Thus, the combination of nausea/vomiting and hepatotoxicity best reflects what’s typically listed for acetaminophen.