From the FDA Drug Label
Directions drink a full glass of water with each dose adults and children 12 years and over: take 4 to 8 tablets every 4 hours not to exceed 48 tablets in 24 hours unless directed by a doctor WARNINGS Liver warning: This product contains acetaminophen. Severe Liver damage may occur if you take • more than 6 caplets in 24 hours, which is the maximum daily amount The maximum amount of Excedrin (which typically contains acetaminophen, aspirin, and caffeine) in 24 hours is not to exceed 6 caplets for acetaminophen and 48 tablets for aspirin, unless directed by a doctor 1 2.
- The maximum in a month is not explicitly stated in the provided drug labels. Key words: Excedrin, acetaminophen, aspirin, maximum daily dose.
From the Research
The maximum recommended dose of Excedrin in 24 hours is 8 tablets (4 doses of 2 tablets each), with doses taken at least 4 hours apart, as exceeding this dose can lead to serious health risks including liver damage, stomach bleeding, and caffeine-related side effects 3. When considering the use of Excedrin, it's essential to prioritize morbidity, mortality, and quality of life as outcomes. The most recent and highest quality study, a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials published in 2022, supports the efficacy of aspirin, paracetamol (acetaminophen), and caffeine for the treatment of acute migraine attacks 3. Some key points to consider when using Excedrin include:
- The daily maximum dose should not be exceeded, and doses should be taken at least 4 hours apart to minimize the risk of adverse effects.
- Excedrin contains acetaminophen, aspirin, and caffeine, and exceeding the recommended dosage can lead to serious health risks.
- If you find yourself needing to take Excedrin regularly for more than 10 days, you should consult with a healthcare provider as this may indicate an underlying condition requiring different treatment.
- Taking breaks from regular use is advisable to prevent medication overuse headaches, which can occur when pain relievers are used too frequently. It's also important to note that there is no specific monthly limit established for Excedrin use, but it's crucial not to exceed the daily maximum dose of 8 tablets per day 3.