With the Full-Scale Rollout of Vaccinations, 'Tylenol Shortages' Continue in Various Places
[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Ji-hee] As COVID-19 vaccinations have ramped up, a shortage of the antipyretic analgesic 'Tylenol' (active ingredient acetaminophen) continues at pharmacies, convenience stores, and other locations. In response, the Korean Pharmaceutical Association has stepped in, stating that "there are about 70 acetaminophen-based products" to help ease the situation.
According to industry sources on the 2nd, the Korean Pharmaceutical Association recently collaborated with the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety to produce and share a poster regarding the purchase of acetaminophen-containing medicines. Starting from the 7th, this poster will also be delivered to pharmacies.
The poster includes the message, "Even if some products are sold out, rest assured. There are about 70 acetaminophen products approved by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety." It was created to calm the demand concentrated on Tylenol despite the availability of many other acetaminophen products. The poster also provides instructions on how to take antipyretic analgesics, such as "Do not take antipyretic analgesics in advance" and "Do not arbitrarily increase the dosage if pain persists."
Previously, it was known that antipyretic analgesics like Tylenol could be taken for fever and muscle pain that may occur after COVID-19 vaccination, which led to the shortage of Tylenol. Due to the high demand for Tylenol, some pharmacies reported cases where customers protested, saying "This is not Tylenol," even when other medicines with the same active ingredient were recommended.
Because of this, on the 28th of last month, the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety also announced that there are several antipyretic analgesics available for use after vaccination. The ministry emphasized, "Acetaminophen products distributed in the market have the same efficacy and effects, so they can be selected and taken according to the appropriate dosage and usage as guided by pharmacists."
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