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 DIRECTIONS For Arthritis Pain Label • do not take more than directed (see overdose warning) adults • take 2 caplets every 8 hours with water • swallow whole; do not crush, chew, split or dissolve • do not take more than 6 caplets in 24 hours • do not use for more than 10 days unless directed by a doctor
The recommended doses for a 51-year-old male are:
- Aspirin: 4 to 8 tablets every 4 hours, not to exceed 48 tablets in 24 hours, unless directed by a doctor 1
- Acetaminophen: 2 caplets every 8 hours, with a maximum of 6 caplets in 24 hours, unless directed by a doctor 2 Note that Excedrin is not directly mentioned in the provided drug labels, but it typically contains a combination of aspirin, acetaminophen, and caffeine.
From the Research
For a 51-year-old male, the recommended dose of Excedrin is 2 tablets every 6 hours, not exceeding 8 tablets in a 24-hour period, with a maximum daily dose of acetaminophen not exceeding 4g/day as recommended by recent guidelines 3. When considering the use of Excedrin, it's crucial to understand its components and their effects. Each Excedrin tablet typically contains 250 mg of acetaminophen, 250 mg of aspirin, and 65 mg of caffeine. Key points to consider when taking Excedrin include:
- Taking it with a full glass of water and preferably with food to reduce stomach irritation.
- Not exceeding the recommended dose to avoid potential side effects, especially considering the acetaminophen content, which should not exceed 4g/day 3.
- Consulting a healthcare provider before use if the patient has liver disease, stomach ulcers, heart conditions, high blood pressure, or is taking blood thinners.
- Being aware of the potential side effects, such as stomach upset, nervousness, or insomnia due to the caffeine content.
- The efficacy of Excedrin in alleviating migraine headache pain, as well as its safety profile, has been supported by studies, including one from 1998 4, though the most recent and highest quality evidence regarding dosing and safety, especially concerning acetaminophen, should be prioritized 3. The medication works through multiple mechanisms: acetaminophen blocks pain signals, aspirin reduces inflammation, and caffeine enhances pain relief while helping to reduce blood vessel dilation that can cause headaches. If pain persists or worsens after a few days of use, it is advisable to seek medical attention.