Acetaminophen and Night Sweats: Side Effects and Coping Tips

Acetaminophen (paracetamol) can cause increased sweating in some people, although persistent “night sweats” are not commonly highlighted for plain acetaminophen alone. ^[1] Increased sweating is also listed among overdose symptoms of acetaminophen. ^[2] Combination products that include acetaminophen with opioids (like codeine or oxycodone) more frequently list excessive sweating/diaphoresis as side effects, so if your acetaminophen is part of a combo pain pill, sweating may be more likely. ^{[3] [4]}

What the evidence says

• Plain acetaminophen: Consumer drug monographs include “increased sweating” among side effects; this can happen without overdose, though it is generally uncommon. ^[1] Overdose can also produce sweating, along with nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite; this is a medical emergency. ^[2]
• Acetaminophen-opioid combinations: Medication guides for acetaminophen with codeine and oxycodone list sweating/excessive sweating as known adverse effects. ^{[3] [4]} These products can also contribute to serotonin syndrome when mixed with certain serotonergic drugs, which can feature fever and sweating; seek urgent care if you notice agitation, confusion, fast heartbeat, or high temperature with sweating. ^{[5] [6]}

Why night sweats might happen

• Fever-lowering effect and thermoregulation: Acetaminophen reduces fever and can alter how the body releases heat, which may increase sweating as temperature normalizes. ^[1]
• Drug combinations: If you are using multi-symptom cold/flu formulas or opioid combinations, sweating is more commonly reported and may show up at night. ^{[7] [3] [4]}
• Overdose or toxicity: Night sweating accompanied by nausea, abdominal pain (especially upper abdomen), or unusual tiredness can be a warning sign of acetaminophen overdose or liver injury; seek care immediately. ^{[2] [8] [9]}

Red flags: when to seek medical help

• Signs of overdose or liver injury: Increased sweating plus nausea/vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, or yellowing of skin/eyes needs urgent medical attention. ^{[2] [8] [9]}
• Severe allergic skin reactions: Rash, blisters, or widespread skin reddening require stopping the drug and prompt evaluation. ^{[7] [10]}
• Serotonin syndrome risk (with certain combos): Sweating with fever, agitation, confusion, fast heartbeat, shivering, or muscle stiffness warrants emergency care. ^{[5] [6]}

Practical coping tips

• Check what you’re taking: If your product combines acetaminophen with other drugs (opioids, antihistamines, decongestants), sweating may be more likely; consider switching to plain acetaminophen if appropriate. ^{[3] [4] [7]}
• Use the lowest effective dose: Follow the label and avoid exceeding total daily limits to reduce side effect risks. Do not take more than directed. ^[11]
• Timing and environment: If night sweats are bothersome, try dosing earlier in the evening, keep the bedroom cool, use breathable bedding, and stay hydrated. These steps can help the body regulate temperature more comfortably. ^[1]
• Avoid alcohol: Regular alcohol use raises the risk of acetaminophen-related liver problems; avoiding it may reduce adverse effects. ^[7]
• Track patterns: Keep a short diary of dosing time, product type, and sweating episodes; consistent links to combo products point toward a switch, while persistent symptoms despite changes warrant medical review. ^{[3] [4]}

Dosage safety reminders

• Respect maximum daily doses and consider all sources (cold/flu products often contain acetaminophen). Exceeding recommended amounts can lead to serious liver injury and symptoms like increased sweating, nausea, and abdominal pain. ^{[2] [7]}
• Read labels carefully for “acetaminophen” or “APAP” in combination products to avoid double-dosing. ^[7]
• If you develop unexpected or bothersome side effects, contact a healthcare professional and consider reporting to national safety hotlines as advised in consumer guidance. ^[1]

Bottom line

• Yes, acetaminophen can increase sweating, and while true “night sweats” are not commonly emphasized for plain acetaminophen, they can occur, especially with combination products or if dosing is high. ^{[1] [3] [4]}
• Focus on safe dosing, product selection, and environmental adjustments, and seek help promptly for any red-flag symptoms suggesting overdose, allergic reactions, or serotonin syndrome. ^{[2] [7] [5] [6]}