Most of us are familiar with the use of acetaminophen, the active ingredient in such over the counter (OTC) medications as Tylenol, for the alleviation of pain. But new research has found that it might in fact be effective in treating hurt feelings and broken hearts, as well.

While there are a vast array of medications to help soothe either physical pain and mental anguish, a new study has found that one drug, acetaminophen, might in fact accomplish both. Researchers were able to make this connection by exploiting the overlap between our social and physical pain systems, which rely on some of the same neural mechanisms in our brain.

In the article, published in the journal, Psychological Science, researchers administered 1000 mg of either acetaminophen or a placebo to healthy volunteers and then had them rate their level of social anguish according to the “Hurt Feelings Scale,” which in professional psychological circles is a widely accepted measure of social pain. Accordingly, hurt feelings decreased over time for those taking acetaminophen, while it increased in the placebo group. For both groups, levels of positive emotions was stable over time.

In a second experiment, volunteers were given either acetaminophen or a placebo over the course of three weeks. They were then subjected to situations designed to create feelings social rejection. The use of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) indicated that the acetaminophen group experienced a decreased response to social rejection as indicated by the lighting up, or lack thereof, of the regions of the brain associated with both emotional and physical pain.

The findings are noteworthy in light of the fact that social rejection can sometimes lead to aggressive and antisocial behavior, thereby exacting a social cost. If an OTC normally used to alleviate pain might also help lower emotional distress, then the positive impact on society might be significant. Researchers, however, are quick to note that this is by no means a call for people to turn to acetaminophen as an antidote for emotional problems. Further tests need to be done to confirm any valid connections to emotional well-being.

Acetaminophen, which also goes by the name paracetamol, is widely used as an OTC analgesic for mild pain. When used in combination with opioid analgesics, it is effective in treating more severe pain, including those resulting from postoperative trauma. While it is generally safe at recommended dosages, overdoses can occur, especially when combined with alcohol. Furthermore, it is well known that long term use of acetaminophen can have serious health consequences, including liver damage. It is therefore extremely important to follow the package guidelines and if using them for anything other than the indicated purpose, to consult your physician or pharmacist