Best Acetaminophen of 2026

Bonnie Salem Avatar
Bonnie Salem
Last Updated: Jan 18, 2026

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Acetaminophen is a widely used over-the-counter pain reliever and fever reducer. It is commonly found in various forms such as tablets, capsules, and liquid suspension. It is used to alleviate mild to moderate pain caused by headaches, toothaches, menstrual cramps, arthritis, and other conditions. Acetaminophen is also used to reduce fever and is often recommended for children. It is generally safe when taken as directed, but it is important to follow dosage instructions carefully to avoid overdose and potential liver damage.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Amazon Basic Care Pain Relief Caplets Cover #TOP 1
Amazon Basic Care Pain Relief Caplets
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Tylenol Extra Strength Acetaminophen Rapid Release Gels, 100 ct Cover #TOP 2
Tylenol Extra Strength Acetaminophen Rapid Release Gels, 100 ct
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Amazon Basic Care Extra Strength Pain Relief Caplets Cover #TOP 3
Amazon Basic Care Extra Strength Pain Relief Caplets
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Acetaminophen

Amazon Basic Care Pain Relief Caplets

Amazon Basic Care
White
100 Count
Amazon Basic Care Pain Relief Caplets Cover
Amazon Basic Care Extra Strength Pain Relief, Acetaminophen Caplets, 500 mg, Pain Reliever/Fever Reducer, 100 Count (Packaging may vary)

Amazon Basic Care Pain Relief Caplets are a reliable and effective solution for minor aches and pains. With its active ingredient, acetaminophen 500 mg, it provides fast-acting relief for headaches, backaches, toothaches, and muscular aches. It also helps reduce fever, making it suitable for those suffering from the common cold or flu. These easy-to-swallow caplets are aspirin, caffeine, and gluten-free, making them suitable for adults and children aged 12 years and over. The child-resistant packaging ensures safety. Amazon Basic Care Pain Relief Caplets offer extra strength, making them a convenient choice for those seeking strong and fast-acting pain relief.

What We Like
Affordable price
Effective pain relief
Large quantity bottle
Same active ingredient as name brand
Convenient for everyday use
What We Don't Like
Pills may be hard to swallow
#TOP 2

Tylenol Extra Strength Acetaminophen Rapid Release Gels, 100 ct

JO48810
White
Tylenol Extra Strength Acetaminophen Rapid Release Gels, 100 ct Cover
Tylenol Extra Strength Acetaminophen Rapid Release Gels, Pain Reliever & Fever Reducer, Gelcaps with Laser-Drilled Holes for Fast Release, Gentle on Stomach, 500 mg Per Gelcap, 100 Count OTC Medicine

Tylenol Extra Strength Acetaminophen Rapid Release Gels come in a 100-count bottle and are designed to provide fast relief from minor aches, pains, and fever. The unique laser-drilled holes in each gelcap quickly release 500mg of acetaminophen for extra strength pain relief. This oral pain reliever is suitable for adults and children aged 12 years and older and can be used to treat headaches, toothaches, backaches, cramps, and pain caused by the common cold.

What We Like
Fast pain relief
Easy to swallow
Long-lasting effect
Effective for multiple pains
Good value for price
What We Don't Like
Large bottle hard to open
#TOP 3

Amazon Basic Care Extra Strength Pain Relief Caplets

Amazon Basic Care
SB-123
White
500 Count
Amazon Basic Care Extra Strength Pain Relief Caplets Cover
Amazon Basic Care Extra Strength Pain Relief, Acetaminophen Caplets, 500 mg, Pain Reliever/Fever Reducer, 500 Count (Packaging may vary)

Amazon Basic Care Extra Strength Pain Relief Caplets contain Acetaminophen 500mg which is similar to Extra Strength Tylenol Caplets. It offers temporary relief for minor aches and pains caused by different factors such as toothache, headache, and backache. The product can also be used to reduce fever for adults and children aged 12 years and above. Pain can be caused by injury or illness, but the product can help ease the pain for a brief time or longer duration.

What We Like
Affordable price
Same active ingredient
Effective pain relief
Large quantity package
Reliable performance
What We Don't Like
Uncoated capsules slightly hard to swallow

Tylenol Extra Strength Caplets

340200
White
Tylenol Extra Strength Caplets Cover
Tylenol Extra Strength Pain Relief Pills, Acetaminophen 500mg Caplets, Pain Reliever and Fever Reducer Medicine for Headache, Backache, Toothache & Minor Arthritis, 100 Count Bottle

Tylenol Extra Strength Caplets are a pain reliever and fever reducer containing 500 mg acetaminophen for effective temporary relief of minor aches and pains. It is recommended for headaches, backaches, menstrual cramps, toothaches, and pain caused by the common cold. This extra strength acetaminophen pain reliever is safe when used as directed and can be used by adults and children who are 12 years and older. Tylenol is the #1 doctor recommended brand for pain relief and fever reduction.

What We Like
Fast-acting pain relief
Easy to swallow caplets
Gentle on stomach
Consistent, reliable results
Good value pricing
What We Don't Like
Strict daily dosage limit

Tylenol 8 Hour Arthritis Pain Relief Caplets, 100 ct

ASINPRILAK2754
White
Tylenol 8 Hour Arthritis Pain Relief Caplets, 100 ct Cover
Tylenol 8HR Arthritis Pain Relief Caplets, 650 mg Acetaminophen for Minor Arthritis & Joint Pain, Fever Reducer, Extended Release, Gentle on Stomach, 100 ct

Get fast-acting and temporary relief from minor arthritis and joint pain with Tylenol 8 Hour Arthritis Pain Extended-Release Caplets. With two effective layers of pain relief, each tablet contains 650mg of acetaminophen that provides relief for up to 8 hours. You can use it to alleviate minor aches, fever, and pains caused by arthritis or other conditions. This oral pain reliever has an excellent safety profile and can be used by adults 18 years and older. Tylenol is the #1 doctor recommended OTC brand for arthritis pain relief and pain and fever reduction.

What We Like
Doctor recommended
Effective pain relief
Long-lasting when taken regularly
Affordable price
Large quantity per package
What We Don't Like
Works best with scheduled doses

Tylenol Infants Acetaminophen Medicine, Dye Free Cherry, 2 fl. oz

300450167620
2 Ounce
Tylenol Infants Acetaminophen Medicine, Dye Free Cherry, 2 fl. oz Cover
Infants' Tylenol Liquid Pain Reliever and Fever Reducer Medicine, Acetaminophen Oral Suspension for Sore Throat, Headache & Teething, Kids Fever Reducer; Dye-Free Cherry Flavor, 2 fl oz, Pack of 1

Relieve your little one's minor aches and pains due to common cold, flu, sore throat, and toothache with Tylenol Infants Acetaminophen Medicine. Its 5-milliliter dose contains 160 milligrams of acetaminophen, which is a known pain reliever and fever reducer. It comes in a kid-friendly cherry flavor that is gentle on little tummies, and is formulated to be alcohol, aspirin, and ibuprofen-free. The package includes a SimpleMeasure dosing syringe that dispenses the proper dosage for your child's age and weight. It is recommended for children aged 2-3 years old and can also be used for teething pain in infants.

What We Like
Fast fever and pain relief
Easy, accurate dosing syringe
Dye-free, gentle formula
Pediatrician recommended
Mild, kid-friendly flavor
What We Don't Like
Runs out quickly
Not a standalone solution for cough

Tylenol Extra Strength Dissolve Packs with Acetaminophen, Berry, 32 Count

041532
Multi
32 Count
Tylenol Extra Strength Dissolve Packs with Acetaminophen, Berry, 32 Count Cover
Tylenol Extra Strength Dissolve Powder Packs, 500 mg Acetaminophen Pain Reliever & Fever Reducer Medicine, Fast Relief for Minor Aches & Pains, Ibuprofen- & Aspirin-Free, On-the-Go Berry Flavor, 32 Ct

Tylenol Extra Strength Dissolve Packs feature a great tasting Berry flavor and temporarily relieve minor aches and pains due to common cold, headache, backache, muscle aches, minor pain of arthritis, menstrual cramps, and toothache. Each packet contains 500 mg of acetaminophen, a pain reliever and fever reducer, and is both ibuprofen-free and aspirin-free. This portable pain medicine dissolves in seconds on the tongue with no water needed, and is safe for both adults and children 12 years of age and older. It's a convenient form to have on hand whenever pain hits.

What We Like
No water needed
Fast pain relief
Easy to carry
Gentle on stomach
Convenient single-dose packets
What We Don't Like
Flavor not for everyone
Higher cost than tablets

Tylenol PM Extra Strength Pain Reliever & Sleep Aid Caplets

JJ-2404
100ct
Tylenol PM Extra Strength Pain Reliever & Sleep Aid Caplets Cover
Tylenol PM Extra Strength Nighttime Pain Reliever & Sleep Aid Caplets, 500 mg Acetaminophen & 25 mg Diphenhydramine HCl, Relief for Nighttime Aches & Pains, Non-Habit Forming, 100 ct

Tylenol PM Extra Strength Caplets Nighttime Pain Reliever & Non-Habit Forming Sleep Aid contains 25 mg diphenhydramine HCl and 500 mg acetaminophen per caplet. It effectively relieves nighttime pain and helps you fall asleep fast. This non-habit forming nighttime sleep aid and pain relief medicine is suitable for adults and children who are 12 years of age and older. Tylenol PM is the #1 doctor-recommended brand for pain relief and fever reduction, ensuring a better night's sleep for a better day ahead.

What We Like
Effective sleep aid
Pain relief
No morning grogginess
Good value for money
Easy to purchase online
What We Don't Like
May cause daytime drowsiness
#TOP 9

Amazon Basic Care Acetaminophen 650 mg

Amazon Basic Care
54479
White
Amazon Basic Care Acetaminophen 650 mg Cover
Amazon Basic Care Acetaminophen Extended-Release Tablets, 650 mg, Arthritis Pain, 400 Count

Amazon Acetaminophen Pain Relief offers effective support for those dealing with minor arthritis pain. Each tablet contains 650 mg of acetaminophen, which is designed to relieve pain and reduce fever. This product is particularly useful for alleviating various discomforts, such as muscular aches, backaches, and menstrual cramps. Additionally, the extended-release formula ensures that you experience longer-lasting relief without the worry of taking multiple doses. Plus, it’s gluten-free and aspirin-free, making it a safe choice for many users. The child-resistant cap adds an extra layer of safety for households with children.

What We Like
Affordable price
Effective pain relief
Extended-release formula
Large quantity per bottle
Easy-to-swallow coating
What We Don't Like
Slightly large tablet size
Cap can be hard to open

Tylenol Children's Chewables 160 mg

580828
Purple
24 Count
Tylenol Children's Chewables 160 mg Cover
Children's Tylenol Chewables with 160 mg Acetaminophen, Pain Reliever & Fever Reducer for Kids' Cold + Flu Symptoms, Headache, Sore Throat & Toothache, Aspirin-Free, Grape Flavor, 24 ct

Tylenol Kids Chewables offer effective relief for your child's minor aches, pains, and cold symptoms. Each chewable tablet contains 160 mg of acetaminophen, which helps reduce fever and alleviate discomfort from headaches, sore throats, and even toothaches. The kid-friendly grape flavor makes it easy for children aged 2 to 11 to take their medicine without fuss. Plus, this formula is free from ibuprofen and aspirin, ensuring a gentle option for their tummies while providing trusted relief. With over 60 years of reliability, Tylenol is the top choice for parents seeking pediatric pain and fever solutions.

What We Like
Easy for kids to chew
Good taste for children
Convenient for travel
No need for swallowing pills
Effective symptom relief
What We Don't Like
Contains artificial dyes
Flavor may be just okay
Buying Guide Image

Everything You Need to Know About Acetaminophen

What is Acetaminophen?

Acetaminophen is a common pain reliever and fever reducer. It is often used to treat headaches, muscle aches, and toothaches, as well as to reduce fever. Acetaminophen is the active ingredient in many over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription pain medications, including Tylenol.

How to choose the right Acetaminophen product

When choosing an Acetaminophen product, it's important to consider the strength of the medication and the form it comes in. Most OTC Acetaminophen products come in 325 mg or 500 mg strengths, while prescription Acetaminophen is available in higher strengths.

The form of the medication can also be an important factor. Acetaminophen is available in liquid, tablet, and caplet forms, as well as in combination with other medications, such as cold and flu remedies. It's important to choose the form that is most convenient and easy for you to take.

How much Acetaminophen is safe to take

It's important to follow the dosage instructions on the medication label, as taking too much Acetaminophen can lead to liver damage. The maximum daily dose of Acetaminophen for adults is 4 grams, or 4,000 mg. However, this maximum dose may be lower for individuals with liver disease or who regularly consume alcohol.

It's also important to avoid taking multiple products that contain Acetaminophen at the same time, as this can increase the risk of liver damage. Always read the labels of all medications you are taking, and talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns.

When to avoid taking Acetaminophen

Acetaminophen is generally safe for most people when taken as directed. However, there are some situations in which it should be avoided. For example, people who are allergic to Acetaminophen or any of its ingredients should not take it.

Acetaminophen may also interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners and some antidepressants. It's important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any other medications before taking Acetaminophen.

In conclusion

Acetaminophen is a commonly used pain reliever and fever reducer. When choosing an Acetaminophen product, it's important to consider the strength and form of the medication, as well as the maximum daily dose and any potential interactions with other medications. Always follow the dosage instructions on the medication label and talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is acetaminophen stronger than ibuprofen?

Acetaminophen and ibuprofen have different mechanisms of action. Acetaminophen primarily works in the brain to reduce pain and fever, while ibuprofen works in the brain and the rest of the body, reducing inflammation and swelling at the site of an injury. Therefore, ibuprofen may be more effective for pain caused by inflammation.

2. What are the top 3 side effects of acetaminophen?

The most commonly reported side effects of acetaminophen include nausea, vomiting, and constipation. In some cases, injection site pain and reaction have been reported with the intravenous form of the medication. However, in general, acetaminophen is well-tolerated when used in therapeutic doses.

3. What is acetaminophen used for?

Acetaminophen is commonly used to relieve mild to moderate pain, such as headaches, muscle aches, toothaches, and backaches. It is also used to reduce fever and alleviate symptoms associated with colds, sore throats, menstrual periods, and reactions to vaccinations.

4. Which is better for pain, Tylenol or ibuprofen?

The choice between Tylenol (acetaminophen) and ibuprofen depends on the type of pain. Ibuprofen has anti-inflammatory effects and is more effective for pain caused by inflammation. On the other hand, Tylenol primarily reduces pain and fever, making it suitable for general pain relief. It's best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

5. Can I take acetaminophen and ibuprofen together?

Yes, it is generally safe to take acetaminophen and ibuprofen together for extra pain relief, such as after a dental extraction. Combining these medications can provide better pain relief than taking them separately. However, it's important to follow the recommended dosages and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.

6. Why do hospitals use Tylenol instead of ibuprofen?

Hospitals often prefer to use Tylenol (acetaminophen) as a fever reducer and pain reliever because it has fewer side effects compared to ibuprofen. However, the choice between the two medications may also depend on the specific circumstances and the patient's condition. It's best to follow the guidance of healthcare professionals in a hospital setting.

7. What should I avoid when taking acetaminophen?

When taking acetaminophen, it's recommended to avoid foods high in pectin (including jellies), carbohydrates, and certain cruciferous vegetables (such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage), as they can interfere with the absorption of acetaminophen and reduce its effectiveness.

8. What happens to your body when you take acetaminophen?

Acetaminophen works as a pain reliever and fever reducer. It is believed to elevate the body's pain threshold, making you feel less pain. It also helps lower fever by aiding in the elimination of excess heat from the body. Acetaminophen is commonly used to relieve minor aches and pains and reduce fever.

9. When should I take acetaminophen?

Acetaminophen is commonly used for various conditions, including mild to moderate fever, mild to moderate pain, headaches, muscle aches, and toothaches. It can also be used to alleviate symptoms associated with menstrual periods. It's important to follow the recommended dosage instructions and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.

Editor's Notes

During our acetaminophen research, we found 27 acetaminophen products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 1,850,535 customer reviews through our big data system to write the acetaminophen list. We found that most customers choose acetaminophen with an average price of $11.47.

The acetaminophen are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of acetaminophen, including Tylenol and more. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Bonnie Salem Avatar

Bonnie Salem is a stay-at-home mother with two-year-old twins and has spent almost half of her life surrounded by baby products. As a mother and a professional copywriter, she has an insightful and unique eye for researching products suitable for infants. Bonnie Salem is an expert in health and nutrition who lives with her family in New Jersey. She has over 15 years of working experience in an institute of medicine after graduating from the University of Toronto. She is highly interested in personal health and wellness.

Acetaminophen Comparison Table

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#TOP10
Brand Amazon Basic Care Tylenol Amazon Basic Care Tylenol Tylenol Tylenol Tylenol Tylenol Amazon Basic Care Tylenol
Item dimensions L x W x H 4.25 x 2.1 x 2.1 inches 1.98 x 3.87 x 2.02 inches 3 x 3 x 5.7 inches 3.8 x 2 x 2 inches 2.22 x 2.22 x 3.84 inches 1.46 x 2.24 x 4.92 inches 1.3 x 3.94 x 3.43 inches 3.88 x 2 x 2.06 inches 3.06 x 3.06 x 5.5 inches 2.05 x 2.85 x 2 inches
Product Benefits Pain Relief Whole Body Arthritis Control, Fever Control, Headache Relief, Pain Relief Whole Body Arthritis Control Fever Control, Pain Relief Pain Relief Pain Relief Arthritis Control, Fever Control, Headache Relief, Pain Relief Pain Relief
Specific Uses For Product Pain Relief Arthritis, Backache, Fever, Headache, Menstrual Pain, Pain Relief, Toothache Fever,Pain Relief Temporarily relieves minor aches and pains due to: The common cold Headache Backache Minor pain of arthritis Toothache Muscular aches Premenstrual and menstrual cramps Temporarily reduces fever Headache Fever Fever Headache Arthritis Fever
Item Weight 0.18 Pounds 3.2 Ounces 0.7 Pounds 0.4 Ounces 0.24 Pounds 0.2 Pounds 0.56 Ounces 3.52 ounces - 22.68 g
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.9
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