Common side effects of acetaminophen include which symptoms?

• A. Hypertension and tachycardia
• B. Severe diarrhea
• C. Rash in all patients
• D. Nausea, itching, upper abdominal pain

Answer: (D)

Acetaminophen is generally well tolerated at recommended doses, with the most frequent adverse effects being mild gastrointestinal symptoms and occasional itching. Nausea and upper abdominal discomfort are common enough to appear in many patients taking it, and itching can occur as a mild skin reaction in some individuals. Serious liver injury is the major concern with overdose or chronic heavy use, but it isn’t a common side effect at normal dosing.

The option listing nausea, itching, and upper abdominal pain best reflects these typical mild effects. Hypertension and tachycardia aren’t characteristic common effects of acetaminophen. Severe diarrhea isn’t expected, and a rash in all patients is incorrect—rashes are rare and not universal.