Final answer:
The false statement about acetaminophen is that it is an anti-inflammatory drug. While acetaminophen is a pain reliever and fever reducer, it has only weak anti-inflammatory effects compared to NSAIDs. Correct dosing in children is essential, and there are risks of liver damage in cases of overdose or with concurrent alcohol consumption.
Step-by-step explanation:
All of the statements given about acetaminophen are correct except for 2) It is an anti-inflammatory drug. Acetaminophen is indeed an analgesic (pain reliever) and an antipyretic (fever reducer), widely used for these purposes both in adults and children. However, it does not possess significant anti-inflammatory properties like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) do. Acetaminophen works differently from NSAIDs in that it has minimal effect on inflammation.
While acetaminophen is safe for children, it must be dosed accurately according to the child's weight and age to avoid potential harm, such as liver damage. Hence, always follow the dosing instructions provided on the medicine's label or as directed by a healthcare professional.
One should also be aware of the potential risks associated with acetaminophen. Overdose can be extremely dangerous and can lead to serious liver damage. Individuals who consume alcohol regularly should be particularly cautious, as their risk for liver damage is further increased when using acetaminophen-containing medicines.