What is Tylenol PM?
Tylenol PM is an over-the-counter medication that combines the pain-relieving effects of acetaminophen with the sleep-inducing properties of an antihistamine. It's commonly used to treat minor aches and pains, such as headaches, muscle aches, and toothaches, that may accompany sleeplessness. The active ingredients in Tylenol PM are acetaminophen, which provides pain relief, and diphenhydramine, which aids sleep [1, 2].
It's important to note that while Tylenol PM can help with sleep, it should not be used for extended periods without consulting a healthcare professional. Overuse or misuse of this medication can lead to serious health issues [2].
Side effects of Tylenol PM
Tylenol PM is generally well-tolerated when taken at the recommended dose. However, some people may experience side effects.
Allergic reaction: One potential side effect is an allergic reaction, which can cause symptoms such as blisters, hives, itchiness, and swelling in the tongue, lips, face, or throat. Difficulty breathing and swallowing may also occur [3, 4].
Severe side effects: Another severe side effect of Tylenol PM is liver damage, which can occur if more than the recommended dose is taken. Symptoms of liver damage can include brown urine, dark stools, fatigue, jaundice (yellow eye whites and skin), loss of appetite, nausea, pain in your upper right abdomen, pale skin, sweating, unusual bruising or bleeding, and vomiting [3].
Rare side effects: In rare cases, acetaminophen may cause severe skin reactions, such as red, peeling, or blistering skin, rash, hives, itching, and swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs. Difficulty breathing or swallowing may also occur [4].
It's important to note that these side effects are rare, and most people do not experience them when taking the recommended dose of Tylenol PM. If you experience these symptoms, stop taking the medication and seek medical attention immediately.
How many Tylenol PM can I take to sleep?
For adults, the general recommendation for Tylenol (acetaminophen) is to take between 650 milligrams (mg) and 1,000 mg every 4 to 6 hours. However, the FDA advises that an adult shouldn't take more than 3,000 mg of acetaminophen per day unless directed otherwise by their healthcare professional.
It's always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication, including over-the-counter drugs like Tylenol PM. They can provide personalized advice based on your health history and current condition.
Alternatives to Tylenol PM
One alternative is the use of other over-the-counter medications. For instance, ibuprofen (Motrin) and aspirin can relieve pain, while local anaesthetics can provide targeted pain relief [5]. Acetaminophen, the active ingredient in Tylenol, can also be used on its own for pain relief and fever reduction [6].
Another alternative is the use of prescription medications. For example, tramadol, a prescription pain reliever, is a reasonable alternative to NSAIDs for analgesia and osteoarthritis [7]. Other prescription medications, such as gabapentin and pregabalin, can target specific receptors or alter pain signals in the nervous system [5].
Natural approaches can also be used to ease pain and inflammation. These include yoga, acupuncture, heat or ice, massage therapy, light exercise, physical therapy, and hypnotherapy [6]. Other natural remedies include prenatal yoga, wearing a maternity belt to support your back, light swimming, prenatal massage, and seeing a chiropractor to manage joint pain during pregnancy [8].
Lastly, lifestyle changes can also help reduce pain. These include weight loss, increased exercise, and other complementary or alternative medicine options such as arnica, curcumin, and bromelin, as well as treatments such as acupuncture [9].
Remember, it's always essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication or treatment regimen.