Jonathan asked
I take Ecotrin daily. Can I take Benadryl with it?
Answer
Ecotrin and Benadryl do not have any known drug interactions. They are safe to take together.
Benadryl
Benadryl is an antihistamine that is typically used to treat a wide range of allergy symptoms and allergic reactions. It is also commonly used as a sleep aid because it has a strong sedative effect for most individuals.
Benadryl is more likely to cause pronounced sedation and confusion in the elderly, and is therefore not generally recommended in this population per Beer’s Criteria, as it places patients at greater risk for falls.
Ecotrin
Ecotrin is a brand name for aspirin. Specifically, it is an enteric coated aspirin which may reduce stomach irritation. The enteric coating allows it to pass through the stomach undissolved, until it reaches the small intestine.
Ecotrin (i.e. aspirin) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug that is used as a pain, fever and inflammation reducer. It also has anti-platelet properties, which can lead to a reduction in platelet aggregation, which makes it an ideal agent for use in patients with cardiovascular disease as well as in those with risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
Since this medication does have anti-platelet properties, there is typically an increase in a patient’s risk for bleeding, and they may notice they bleed and bruise easier.
Aspirin products should not be given to patients younger than 15 years of age because of the potential for Reye’s Syndrome.
Although Ecotrin may cause less stomach irritation than non-coated aspirin products, it can nonetheless still be irritating to the stomach and potentially cause gastrointestinal bleeds. It is therefore recommended to be taken with food.
