Tylenol Number 3 is a pain medication that contains both Tylenol and Codeine. The Number 3 means that there are three grains of codeine mixed with the Tylenol. Codeine is a prescription strength pain reliever and Tylenol is a very effective Over-the Counter medicine. When the two drugs are mixed, the pain relief is greater than if only one was taken.

          Codeine can cause nausea especially when codeine is taken on an empty stomach. However, the Tylenol Number 3 is absorbed better and quicker on an empty stomach. If the nausea is too bad, you can take the Tylenol Number 3 with food. This is not as effective but often does the trick and the patient is pain free.

          Tylenol Number 3 is one of the most common narcotics given to patients after oral surgery. Strangely enough, Tylenol Number 3 sometimes works better than a stronger narcotic in many patients. Sometimes the strength of the narcotic has to be lowered to be effective with some patients. It's really strange.

          A narcotic acts like morphine when it hits the patient's liver. The liver converts the codeine to morphine at a smaller dose.

          Patients can alternate taking Motrin and Tylenol Number 3 to increase pain relief.

          If you are having dental problems taking Tylenol Number 3 and would like to consult with a dentist, please call and make an appointment at 404-874-7428.