In Tylenol poisoning, what typically occurs during stage 4?

During stage 4 of Tylenol (acetaminophen) poisoning, the recovery phase occurs. This stage typically follows a period of acute liver injury. After the peak of liver injury, which is generally seen in the earlier stages as elevated liver enzymes indicate damage, the body's natural healing processes begin to take over.

In this recovery phase, patients may start to show improvements in their liver function tests if appropriate treatment has been initiated, such as the administration of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) as an antidote. Restoration of hepatic function can lead to reduced symptoms and a gradual return to baseline liver enzyme levels. If the liver has sustained significant damage, some patients may continue to improve, while others may suffer from prolonged effects based on the extent of the injury.

Understanding this progression and the timeline of Tylenol poisoning stages is critical for effective management and intervention. Early recognition and appropriate treatment during the toxic stage can enhance recovery outcomes by minimizing liver damage during the subsequent recovery stage.