RSB asked
Can you take Advil PM and Tylenol at the same time?
At a glance
- Advil PM contains ibuprofen, a NSAID, and diphenhydramine, a sedating antihistamine. Ibuprofen has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties while diphenhydramine is added for the sedative effect.
- There are a number of differences between acetaminophen and ibuprofen. Notably, ibuprofen relieves inflammation, can affect the kidneys and can cause stomach irritation. Acetaminophen is primarily metabolized via the liver. Both however can be taken together for better analgesic effects.
- There is no known interaction between Tylenol (acetaminophen) and Advil PM (ibuprofen; diphenhydramine).
Answer
There is no interaction between Advil PM and Tylenol. They can safely be taken at the same time.
In fact, there are many studies which have shown that the combination of ibuprofen (one of the active ingredients in Advil PM) and acetaminophen (the active ingredient in Tylenol) can work synergistically, and help to relieve pain better than either alone.
Tylenol Info
Tylenol contains the active ingredient acetaminophen (also referred to as APAP).
Unlike ibuprofen, it does not have anti-inflammatory effects but does help to relieve pain and can reduce fevers.
Acetaminophen is a common ingredient in many over the counter cough/cold products and it is important to read the labels of all products you are using to avoid taking too much acetaminophen.
The maximum daily dose of acetaminophen is 4,000 mg, but labeling for many products states a maximum daily dose of 3,000 mg as acetaminophen overuse is one of the main causes of liver failure.
References
- Combined acetaminophen and ibuprofen for pain relief after oral surgery in adults: a randomized controlled trial. PubMed
- The Effects of New FDA APAP Regulations on Pharmacy Practice. Pharmacy Times
