Is acetaminophen physically addictive or does it have withdraw symptoms?

I have been taking acetaminophen for over 32 years ever night to help me sleep and aches and pains of the day. I decided to stop taking it and for two weeks I have been sick with headaches, body pain, nausea, diarrhea, nervousness, and overwhelming fatigue. Do you think that I am withdrawing from acetaminophen? I decided to take some last night and my symptoms improved.

No it's not addictive, it is tylenol, it is over the counter, and no you can't get withdrawal symptoms from it. :)

Worried about addiction - no. Worried that they are trying to self-medicate for a problem and need to see a doctor - yes. Talk to your friend - make sure they know that even over-the-counter meds are strong and shouldn't be used long-term. Might be time for them to see a doctor. You are a good friend! - ElizaJane

I found 20 in my friends backpack, and we're 14 years old. Should I be worried?

Hi truther,
It's not addictive but I have had rebound headaches before after taking it for a few days. Just use it when needed only. If you can take ibuprofen alternate that with acetaminophen. But be careful don't do it for long. It's hard on your stomach. Hope this helps! smileyhappy.

Acetaminophen is not physically addictive per say, but you can get rebound headaches from its use. If you use acetaminophen at larger doses for a period of time you can often get a severe headache called a rebound headache from the withdrawal of the acetaminophen. This headache can be severe enough to cause nausea and vomiting. It would be promply relieved by another dose of acetaminophen thus leading to a vicious cycle.