(HealthDay News) -- Found in more than 600 different medicines, acetaminophen is the most common drug ingredient in the United States, says the Consumer Healthcare Products Association.

To use the painkiller safely, the CHPA urges you to:

• Always read and follow the directions on the label. Never take more than the recommended dose.
• Know if your medicines contain acetaminophen. It may be abbreviated as "APAP" or "acetam."
• Take only one medicine at a time that contains acetaminophen.
• Speak to your doctor if you have questions about dosing or instructions.