The parent compounds of acetaminophen (US market in 1955 in the US as Tylenol and other products) were first discovered in 1886 (acetanilide) and 1887 (phenacetin). These were the earliest synthetic fever TYLENOL [Acetaminophen APAP]why it may cause harm Tylenol should likely be avoided in excess by genetically vulnerable children. GENETICALLY VULNERABLE likely meanschildren with limited supplies of GLUTATHIONE. The problem with TYLENOL Tylenol Glutathione Kizer Wellness LLC Yes there is good evidence that acetaminophen (the active ingredient in Tylenol) can deplete glutathione under certain conditions. But whether that matters depends on dose, duration, and individual factors.