Jason asked
I take aspirin 81mg every day for heart protection. I know a lot of drugs interact with aspirin and I know that many different medications shouldn't be used in those with heart conditions. I wanted to check to see if Benadryl is safe to take with aspirin?
Answer
Aspirin and Benadryl have no known drug interactions. They are considered to be safe to take together.
It is important to note however, that if you take aspirin for cardio-protection (e.g. low dose aspirin daily), Benadryl has been associated with adverse cardiac effects, such as:
- Tachycardia (fast heart rate)
- Low blood pressure
- Arrhythmias
Adverse cardiac effects on Benadryl are rare, but it would nevertheless be prudent to discuss use of Benadryl with your doctor before using.
Aspirin Information
Aspirin is an antiplatelet medication which acts on the COX-1 enzyme to inhibit the formation of prostaglandins in the pathway of coagulation. By inhibiting COX-1, aspirin not only is beneficial in its blood thinning effects but it is also able to inhibit another types of prostaglandins, which can cause inflammation and pain.
The use of aspirin therefore is not just limited to its cardio-protective effects, but also for the treatment of minor pains. Aspirin may be taken with some pain medications like Tylenol (acetaminophen), but should not be taken with others like ibuprofen or naproxen.
Benadryl (Diphenhydarmine)
Benadryl is a 1st generation antihistamine which works for the treatment of conditions like allergies or as a short term sleep aide. Benadryl exerts drying effects which makes it ideal for treating sinus symptoms or a runny nose when exposed to allergens.
Taking Benadryl With Aspirin
Using Benadryl and aspirin together is a fairly common occurrence and is safe to do so for most individuals. Often times, both are utilized for the treatment of symptoms from the cold/flu. Aspirin is generally used decrease in body pains and headaches while Benadryl can help to relieve chest congestion and a runny nose. It can also be used as a sleep aide.
Both of these medications however, should not be taken with alcohol as both have a moderate interaction with its use. Taking aspirin with alcohol may result in an increased risk of bleeding while taking alcohol with Benadryl may result in increased drowsiness and sedation.
Summary
- There is no drug interaction between Benadryl and aspirin. They are safe to take together.
- If you are taking aspirin for heart attack or stroke prevention, be sure to talk to your doctor before taking Benadryl.
