Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, heartburn, trouble sleeping, or increased urination may occur. If your condition lasts or gets worse (such as new or unusual symptoms, redness/swelling of the painful area, pain/fever that does not go away or gets worse) or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away. Tell your doctor promptly if you develop ringing in the ears or difficulty hearing. In these cases, consult a doctor because you may have a more serious condition.
You should not use this drug to self-treat a fever that lasts longer than 3 days. You should not take this medication for self-treatment of pain for longer than 10 days. If you wait until the pain has worsened, the medicine may not work as well. If you are taking this medication "as needed" (not on a regular schedule), remember that pain medications work best if they are used as the first signs of pain occur. Before using this drug, consult a doctor or pharmacist if you have headaches caused by head injury, coughing, or bending, or if you have a headache with fever, stiff neck, and vomiting that is severe or does not go away. If you are taking this medication for self-treatment of headache, get medical help right away if you also have trouble speaking, weakness on one side of the body, or sudden vision changes. Avoid drinking large amounts of beverages containing caffeine (coffee, tea, colas), eating large amounts of chocolate, or taking nonprescription products that contain caffeine. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase. Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than directed. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
If you are using the powder packets, dissolve the powder on tongue and follow with a full glass of water. Do not lie down for at least 10 minutes after taking this medication. Take this medication with a full glass of water (8 ounces/240 milliliters) unless your doctor directs you otherwise. If you have stomach upset while taking this medication, take it with food or milk. Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually every 6 hours.
If your doctor has prescribed this medication, take it as directed. If you have any questions, consult your pharmacist. If you are taking the over-the-counter product to self-treat, read and follow all directions on the product package before taking this medication.