Equate Acetaminophen Matches Tylenol Step for Step

I tend to have a lot of headaches. It has been a curse of mine as far back as I can remember. Since some of my headaches can be a precursor to a migraine, I reach for some kind of aid as soon as one begins.

Whenever possible, I begin with a natural remedy. However, if that doesn't work within the first couple of hours, I'm not above using an over-the-counter medication like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Both are often successful in warding off something bigger.

My preference is always acetaminophen since ibuprofen comes with its own set of problems. Either medication; however, can be expensive if you have to use it very often.

I learned a long time ago the benefits of seeking a generic brand of acetaminophen. My favorite comes from Equate. I prefer their extra strength variety.

You can purchase a bottle of 500 Equate Acetaminophen caplets, in a 500-milligram strength for just under $8 at Wal-Mart. Such a bottle will easily last my entire family over a year so we consider it a bargain.

This economical pricing does not indicate an inferior product; however. It simply means that this Wal-Mart product does not require the heavy-duty marketing and advertising budget used by the company that distributes Tylenol.

The active ingredient in Equate Acetaminophen is identical to that of Tylenol - - acetaminophen in a 500-milligram amount. Inactive ingredients are similar as well. They include stearic acid, starch, sodium starch glycolate, sodium metabisulfite, polyethylene glycol, povidone, croscarmellose sodium, hypromellose and carnauba wax.

In that respect, the two medications are close enough that Equate Acetaminophen easily gets 5 out of 5 stars.

Equate Acetaminophen is good for the temporary relief of minor pain and aches that stem from things like arthritis, back pain, headache, menstrual cramps, muscle strain and toothache. It is also useful in lowering a temperature caused by illnesses like the common cold, flu, bronchitis, infection, pneumonia, etc.

That is the nearly identical to the medical problems that Tylenol can treat. That earns Equate Acetaminophen another 5 out of 5 stars.

Equate Acetaminophen is safe for most adults to take up to 2 caplets every 4 to 6 hours, with a maximum of 8 caplets within a 24 hour period. Beyond that, the company recommends speaking with a physician before continuing to use their medication.

There are; however, some restrictions for the use of this medication. It is not recommended for use in children under the age of 12 unless a doctor prescribes it. Use of the drug for children over the age of 12 should also be authorized by a physician to remain within safety perimeters.

Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should always consult their physicians before taking Equate Acetaminophen. The medication is also not recommended for people who have liver disease, are addicted to painkillers or alcohol, who are on blood thinning medications or who are taking other medications containing acetaminophen. In such instances, patients should solicit the advice of a physician for possible alternative suggestions.

Restrictions and usage notations are nearly identical to Tylenol. That earns Equate Acetaminophen another 5 out 5 stars.

Side effects might include dizziness, sleepiness, nausea, stomachache, vision alteration or vomiting. In extreme instances, breathing problems, irregular heartbeat, rash, stomach pain, swelling and unexplained itchiness might also occur. In any of these cases, contact a physician for direction with regard to whether or not to continue taking the medication.

Side effects for Equate Acetaminophen are no worse than Tylenol. That earns the product a final 5 out of 5 stars.

That is 20 out of a possible 20 stars, matching Tylenol step to step. Equate Acetaminophen appears to work as effectively as Tylenol while at a fraction of the cost. That makes this product a good substitute for Tylenol when it is authorized.

Equate Acetaminophen should be stored at room temperature between 68 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit. It should be kept away from extreme light exposure and should not be put where dampness might occur.

Equate Acetaminophen is distributed and sold by Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. out of Bentonville, Arkansas. It has no direct connection with McNeill Consumer Healthcare, the manufacturer and distributor of Tylenol.