What are the dosage instructions for Excedrin (acetaminophen, aspirin, and caffeine)?

Excedrin Dosage Instructions

For adults, the recommended dosage of Excedrin is 2 tablets every 6 hours, with a maximum of 8 tablets in 24 hours. Each tablet contains acetaminophen 250 mg, aspirin 250 mg, and caffeine 65 mg.

Detailed Dosing Information

• Standard adult dose: 2 tablets taken with a full glass of water
• Minimum time between doses: 6 hours
• Maximum daily dose: 8 tablets in 24 hours (do not exceed)
• Duration of use: Do not use for more than 3 days for pain or 3 days for fever unless directed by a healthcare provider

Efficacy for Migraine Treatment

Excedrin (acetaminophen-aspirin-caffeine combination) is highly effective for treating migraine headache pain. Studies show that this combination significantly reduces migraine pain intensity and associated symptoms such as nausea, photophobia, and phonophobia 1. The combination is particularly effective when taken at the first sign of migraine pain 2.

Important Precautions

• Liver damage warning: Contains acetaminophen. Severe liver damage may occur if:

  • You take more than 8 tablets in 24 hours
  • You take with other drugs containing acetaminophen
  • You consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product

• Stomach bleeding warning: Contains aspirin, which may cause stomach bleeding if:

  • You are age 60 or older
  • You have had stomach ulcers or bleeding problems
  • You take a blood thinning medication or steroid drug
  • You take other drugs containing prescription or nonprescription NSAIDs
  • You consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily

Special Populations

• Children: Not recommended for children under 12 years unless directed by a doctor
• Pregnancy: Consult a healthcare provider before use, especially during the third trimester
• Breastfeeding: Consult a healthcare provider before use
• Elderly: May be more susceptible to side effects, particularly stomach bleeding

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

1. Exceeding the maximum dose: Knowledge of the maximum one-time dose is critical for safety. Studies show that knowing proper dosing decreases the odds of taking too much at one time by fivefold 3.

2. Taking multiple acetaminophen-containing products: Only about one-third of users know the prohibition against taking multiple acetaminophen medications concurrently 3. This can lead to dangerous acetaminophen overdose.

3. Not waiting long enough between doses: Only 47% of users know the minimum interval between doses 3. Always wait at least 6 hours between doses.

4. Using for prolonged periods: Do not use for more than 3 days for pain or fever without consulting a healthcare provider.

When to Seek Medical Attention

• If pain worsens or persists for more than 10 days
• If fever persists for more than 3 days
• If new symptoms occur
• If redness or swelling is present
• If you experience signs of stomach bleeding (feeling faint, vomiting blood, bloody/black stools)

Remember that while Excedrin is effective for many migraineurs, those with severe migraine (requiring bed rest >50% of the time or experiencing vomiting ≥20% of the time) may need prescription medications instead 1, 2.