Josiah asked
Can you take Benadryl with Motrin? I am taking Motrin a few times a day and am having some trouble sleeping. Just checking to make sure the combination is safe.
Answer
Benadryl (diphenhydramine) can safely be taken with Motrin (ibuprofen) and there is no interaction between the two medications.
Motrin PM actually contains both of these medications in a single dose (ibuprofen 200 mg & diphenhydramine 38 mg).
Benadryl Information
Diphenhydramine is a sedating antihistamine marketed under many names, including Benadryl and ZzzQuil. Benadryl is well known for treating the itchiness resulting from allergic reactions to things like insect bites, laundry detergent, or poison ivy. It can be taken orally but also comes in a topical form. In addition to treating allergy symptoms, Benadryl can help with insomnia due to the sedation it causes.
Benadryl begins to work about 20 to 30 minutes after taking by mouth and maximum blood concentrations are reached after 1 to 2 hours. The duration of action varies by individual but generally lasts 4 to 6 hours.
Motrin Information
Motrin (ibuprofen) is an NSAID that is used to treat fever as well as pain and inflammation caused by headaches, muscle aches, arthritis, menstrual cramps, and toothaches to name a few. Ibuprofen comes in 200 mg when sold over the counter. Ibuprofen comes in 400 mg, 600 mg, and 800 mg when dispensed with a prescription. Ibuprofen is not recommended on a daily basis because it can cause stomach irritation or ulcers when taken chronically.
The analgesic and fever reducing effects of Motrin begin about 30 minutes after taking by mouth and last for about 4 to 6 hours.Taking Benadryl (Diphenhydramine) With Motrin (Ibuprofen)
As discussed above, Benadryl is safe to take with Motrin. There is no drug interaction between the two.
