What are the dangers of mixing Tylenol PM and alcohol. How does alcohol affect the liver when combined with acetaminophen. What precautions should be taken when using Tylenol PM and consuming alcohol. What are the potential side effects of this combination.

Understanding Tylenol PM: Composition and Uses

Tylenol PM is a widely used over-the-counter medication that combines two active ingredients: acetaminophen and diphenhydramine. Acetaminophen, also known as paracetamol, is a pain reliever and fever reducer, while diphenhydramine is an antihistamine that causes drowsiness. This combination makes Tylenol PM effective for treating pain and aiding sleep.

What exactly is in Tylenol PM?

• Acetaminophen: 500mg per dose
• Diphenhydramine: 25mg per dose

The acetaminophen component helps alleviate pain and reduce fever, while the diphenhydramine induces sleepiness, making it easier for users to fall asleep when dealing with minor aches and pains.

The Dangers of Mixing Tylenol PM and Alcohol

Combining Tylenol PM with alcohol can lead to serious health risks, primarily due to the interaction between alcohol and acetaminophen. Both substances are metabolized by the liver, and when taken together, they can overwhelm the organ’s ability to process toxins effectively.

Why is mixing Tylenol PM and alcohol dangerous?

• Increased risk of liver damage
• Enhanced sedative effects
• Potential for accidental overdose
• Impaired judgment and coordination

The liver metabolizes both acetaminophen and alcohol using similar pathways. When these substances are combined, the liver’s ability to process acetaminophen is reduced, leading to a buildup of toxic byproducts that can cause liver damage or failure.

Acetaminophen and Alcohol: A Risky Combination for Liver Health

The liver plays a crucial role in metabolizing both acetaminophen and alcohol. When these substances are consumed separately, a healthy liver can typically process them without issue. However, when combined, they can create a perfect storm for liver damage.

How does alcohol affect acetaminophen metabolism?

1. Alcohol depletes glutathione, a compound necessary for breaking down acetaminophen
2. Alcohol induces enzymes that convert acetaminophen into toxic metabolites
3. The combination can lead to the accumulation of harmful substances in the liver

Even moderate alcohol consumption can increase the risk of liver damage when taking acetaminophen. For individuals who consume alcohol regularly or in large quantities, the risk is significantly higher.

Recognizing the Signs of Liver Damage

Liver damage resulting from the combination of Tylenol PM and alcohol may not be immediately apparent. However, there are several signs and symptoms that can indicate liver problems:

• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Abdominal pain or swelling
• Dark urine
• Pale stools
• Chronic fatigue
• Nausea or vomiting
• Loss of appetite

If you experience any of these symptoms after taking Tylenol PM, especially if you’ve also consumed alcohol, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Early intervention can prevent further liver damage and potentially save your life.

The Sedative Effects of Tylenol PM and Alcohol

Beyond the risks to liver health, combining Tylenol PM and alcohol can lead to dangerous levels of sedation. Diphenhydramine, the sleep-inducing component of Tylenol PM, is a central nervous system depressant. Alcohol also acts as a depressant, and when the two are combined, their effects are amplified.

What are the risks of increased sedation?

• Extreme drowsiness and dizziness
• Impaired motor skills and coordination
• Slowed breathing
• Increased risk of accidents and injuries
• Potential for loss of consciousness

The combined sedative effects can be particularly dangerous if you need to drive or operate machinery. It’s essential to avoid any activities requiring alertness when taking Tylenol PM, especially if you’ve consumed alcohol.

Safe Usage Guidelines for Tylenol PM

To use Tylenol PM safely and effectively, it’s important to follow these guidelines:

1. Do not consume alcohol while taking Tylenol PM
2. Follow the recommended dosage instructions on the package
3. Do not exceed the maximum daily dose of acetaminophen (4000mg for adults)
4. Avoid taking other medications containing acetaminophen concurrently
5. Consult a healthcare provider before use if you have liver disease or a history of alcohol abuse
6. Do not use Tylenol PM for extended periods without medical supervision

It’s also crucial to be aware of other medications or supplements you’re taking that might interact with Tylenol PM. Always inform your healthcare provider about all the substances you use, including over-the-counter medications and herbal supplements.

Alternative Pain Relief and Sleep Aid Options

If you’re looking for pain relief or sleep aids that may be safer to use when consuming alcohol, consider these alternatives:

For Pain Relief:

• Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) – Use with caution and in moderation with alcohol
• Naproxen (Aleve) – Also use with caution when consuming alcohol
• Topical pain relievers (creams, gels, patches)
• Non-drug approaches: heat/cold therapy, massage, stretching

For Sleep Aid:

• Melatonin supplements
• Herbal teas (chamomile, valerian root)
• Relaxation techniques (meditation, deep breathing exercises)
• Improving sleep hygiene (consistent sleep schedule, dark and quiet environment)

Remember that while these alternatives may have fewer interactions with alcohol, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional before combining any medications or supplements with alcohol.

When to Seek Medical Help

If you’ve accidentally taken Tylenol PM with alcohol or are experiencing concerning symptoms, it’s important to know when to seek medical attention. Here are some situations that warrant immediate medical care:

• Symptoms of liver damage (as mentioned earlier)
• Severe drowsiness or difficulty staying awake
• Confusion or disorientation
• Difficulty breathing
• Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
• Seizures
• Loss of consciousness

In case of a suspected overdose or severe reaction, call emergency services immediately. It’s better to err on the side of caution when it comes to potential drug interactions and their effects on your health.

Understanding the risks associated with mixing Tylenol PM and alcohol is crucial for maintaining your health and safety. By following proper usage guidelines and being aware of potential interactions, you can effectively manage pain and sleep issues while minimizing the risk of harmful side effects. Always prioritize your health and consult with healthcare professionals when in doubt about medication use and alcohol consumption.

Tylenol PM and Alcohol/Food Interactions

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There are 2 alcohol/food/lifestyle interactions with Tylenol PM (acetaminophen / diphenhydramine).

Ask your doctor before using acetaminophen together with ethanol. This can cause serious side effects that affect your liver. Call your doctor immediately if you experience a fever, chills, joint pain or swelling, excessive tiredness or weakness, unusual bleeding or bruising, skin rash or itching, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, or yellowing of the skin or the whites of your eyes. If your doctor does prescribe these medications together, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take both medications. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

Switch to professional interaction data

Ask your doctor before using diphenhydrAMINE together with ethanol. Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking diphenhydrAMINE. You should be warned not to exceed recommended dosages and to avoid activities requiring mental alertness. If your doctor prescribes these medications together, you may need a dose adjustment to safely take this combination. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

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Tylenol PM drug interactions

There are 500 drug interactions with Tylenol PM (acetaminophen / diphenhydramine).

Tylenol PM disease interactions

There are 11 disease interactions with Tylenol PM (acetaminophen / diphenhydramine) which include:

• alcoholism
• liver disease
• depression
• PKU
• anticholinergic effects
• asthma/COPD
• cardiovascular
• renal/liver disease
• glaucoma
• liver disease
• resp depression

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More about Tylenol PM (acetaminophen / diphenhydramine)

• Tylenol PM consumer information
• Check interactions
• Compare alternatives
• Reviews (36)
• Drug images
• Side effects
• Dosage information
• During pregnancy
• Support group
• Drug class: analgesic combinations
• En español

Related treatment guides

• Headache
• Insomnia
• Pain

Drug Interaction Classification

These classifications are only a guideline. The relevance of a particular drug interaction to a specific individual is difficult to determine. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medication.

Major	Highly clinically significant. Avoid combinations; the risk of the interaction outweighs the benefit.
Moderate	Moderately clinically significant. Usually avoid combinations; use it only under special circumstances.
Minor	Minimally clinically significant. Minimize risk; assess risk and consider an alternative drug, take steps to circumvent the interaction risk and/or institute a monitoring plan.
Unknown	No interaction information available.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

Can You Take Tylenol with Alcohol?

Alcohol and acetaminophen — the active ingredient of Tylenol — can negatively affect the liver when taken on their own. When they are mixed, however, the synergistic effect they have on the liver multiplies the potential damage⁴ that they can cause. 

Alcohol alone can put a significant strain on the liver. Many types of drugs should not be taken with alcohol because of potential negative interactions, many of which affect the liver. Ultimately, mixing any substance with alcohol is not recommended unless you first consult with your doctor about potential drug interactions and effects.

What Is Tylenol?

Tylenol is a brand name for the generic drug acetaminophen. Acetaminophen is a pain reliever that can also help to reduce fevers. Some types of Tylenol may include other drugs as part of its formulation — for example, Tylenol PM is a combination of acetaminophen and diphenhydramine.

There are also drugs that contain acetaminophen but are not labeled as Tylenol. Regardless, any drug containing acetaminophen should generally not be mixed with alcohol.

Acetaminophen Side Effects

Acetaminophen use can lead to liver damage, even when alcohol is not used. This is rare in healthy individuals who follow acetaminophen dosage instructions. However, it may occur in people who take acetaminophen in excess or have certain underlying health conditions, especially ones affecting the liver. 

Side effects with acetaminophen³ are uncommon, but they may include:

• Nausea
• Stomach pain
• Itching
• Dark urine
• Yellowing of the skin 
• Decreased appetite
• Headache

If you are having side effects with acetaminophen, it is a good idea to consult with your doctor. These effects can sometimes indicate liver damage.

Related Topic: Why Does Alcohol Make You Pee?

Tylenol and Alcohol Interaction

Tylenol and alcohol are both foreign chemicals to the body, and the body breaks down both of these chemicals by using the liver. While each substance individually puts some strain on the liver, the strain multiplies when both are used together. This makes it harder for the liver to break down these substances, which causes higher levels of each substance to remain in the liver. This can potentially lead to irreversible liver damage⁴.

While light drinking paired with normal Tylenol use may not have a large effect, someone who is using too much Tylenol or drinking heavily or frequently may experience more significant liver problems.

Effects of Alcohol and Tylenol

Liver damage is normally permanent, and the only way to cure it is to get a liver transplant. Some of the symptoms of liver damage include:

• Yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes
• Confusion
• Ulcers
• Changes in stool color
• Bleeding or bruising easily
• Swelling in the legs and feet
• Swelling in the abdomen
• Itchy skin
• Dark urine
• Fatigue
• Nausea and vomiting

If you are having any of these symptoms, especially after using alcohol and Tylenol together, then you should see a doctor. These can indicate that liver damage from alcohol has occurred and that you will need medical care.

Alternatives to Acetaminophen

Tylenol is one of two common types of over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications. The other major type of OTC pain medication is non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). This class of drug includes Aleve, ibuprofen and aspirin. These drugs are normally safer to use with alcohol, but they may cause gastrointestinal discomfort or even bleeding in those with a history of gastrointestinal bleeding. There are also prescription pain medications that may be safer to use with alcohol. 

Ultimately, you should always consult with your doctor before using any medication at the same time as alcohol.

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FAQs

How long after taking Tylenol can I drink alcohol?

You should consult with a doctor to see what is best in your specific situation, but in most cases, it may be safe to take Tylenol 24 hours or more after using alcohol.

Can you take Tylenol with alcohol?

A healthy person may be able to safely use Tylenol¹ while drinking lightly and infrequently, but even then, safety is not guaranteed. Typically, mixing Tylenol and alcohol should be avoided unless instructed by a doctor.

Does Tylenol interact with alcohol?

Tylenol and alcohol do not necessarily interact with each other; instead, they both act on the liver. This is what creates the negative effect of combining the two substances.

Tylenol™ – instructions for use, doses, side effects, reviews of the drug:

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Analogs

All forms of release, dosages, registration certificates, drug manufacturers, drug characteristics

Product Description Tylenol™ Caplets (caplets), 500 mg) based on the label, approved by the manufacturer in 2000

Approval date: 07/31/2000

Content

• Active substance
• ATX
• Pharmacological group
• Nosological classification (ICD-10)
• Composition and form of release
• pharmachologic effect
• pharmachologic effect
• Indications
• Contraindications
• Use during pregnancy and lactation
• Dosage and administration
• Side effects
• Precautionary measures
• Storage conditions
• Best before date
• Reviews

Active ingredient

Paracetamol* (Paracetamol*)

ATX

N02BE01 Paracetamol

Pharmacological group

Anilides

Nosological classification (ICD-10)

ICD-10 code list

Composition and formulation

1 caplet contains paracetamol 500 mg; in a blister 10 pcs. , in a box 1 blister or in strips of 2 pcs., in a box 50 strips.

Pharmacological action

Pharmacological action –

analgesic , antipyretic .

Inhibits cyclooxygenase, inhibits the synthesis of PG in the central nervous system and their stimulating effect on the thermoregulatory center of the hypothalamus; increases heat transfer.

Inhibits cyclooxygenase, inhibits the synthesis of PG in the central nervous system and their stimulating effect on the thermoregulatory center of the hypothalamus; increases heat transfer.

Indications

Pain of mild to moderate intensity (including headache, toothache, sore throat and general malaise), fever.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity, severe impairment of liver and kidney function, deficiency of glucose−6-phosphate dehydrogenase, children’s age (up to 12 years).

Use during pregnancy and lactation

Acceptable, but only on medical prescription.

Dosage and Administration

Information for healthcare professionals only.
Are you a healthcare professional?

Inside, 2 caplets 3-4 times a day, but not more than 8 caplets per day.

Side effects

In rare cases, nausea, abdominal pain, allergic reactions (skin rash, itching, urticaria).

Precautions

Do not use more than 10 days for pain and 3 days as an antipyretic. It should not be taken together with other drugs containing paracetamol.

Storage conditions

At a temperature of 15–30 °C.

Keep out of reach of children.

Expiry date

4 years.

Do not use after the expiry date which is stated on the pack.

Update date: 11/21/2018

Reviews

Read all reviews and leave your own.

Information for healthcare professionals only.
Are you a healthcare professional?

Tylenol PM | 59 factors

66 points

Tylenol PM

Tylenol PM

Why is Tylenol PM better than others?

• Paracetamol?
  500mg vs 175. 77mg
• Tablets per pack?
  100 vs 44.37
• Dosage period?
  14 vs 7.75
• Shelf life?
  36months vs 31.6months
• Diphenhydramine?
  25mg vs 0.48mg

Tylenol PM

vs

Tylenol Extra Strength

Tylenol PM

vs

Tylenol Regular Strength

Tylenol PM

vs

Tylenol Arthritis Pain

Tylenol PM

vs

Tempra Infant Drops

Tylenol PM

vs

Panadol Night

Tylenol PM

vs

Excedrin PM

Tylenol PM

vs

Aleve GelCaps

Tylenol PM

90 002 vs

Tylenol Sinus Congestion & Pain Severe

Tylenol PM

vs

Motrin PM

Tylenol PM

vs

Advil

9001 9 Composition

ibuprofen

Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. The analgesic effect of ibuprofen takes effect immediately, however, the anti-inflammatory effects can last up to a week.

paracetamol

Paracetamol (acetaminophen in the US) is classified as a mild analgesic. It suppresses the feeling of pain, but does not treat the cause.

aspirin

Aspirin can be used as an analgesic, antipyretic and anti-inflammatory agent.

caffeine

Studies have shown that caffeine can increase the effectiveness of many analgesics, resulting in better, faster pain relief.

codeine

Codeine is an opiate used to treat mild to moderate pain. Opioids can change mood, sometimes resulting in a feeling of euphoria. It may be helpful in relieving pain, but addiction and withdrawal symptoms may occur.

Has more than one active ingredient

✔Tylenol PM

Product contains more than one active ingredient. These combinations usually complement each other, and sometimes one ingredient can enhance the effectiveness of another.

naproxin

Naproxen is an anti-inflammatory that can be used to treat a variety of pain symptoms.

Effects

Toothache

✔Tylenol PM

Toothache is pain in and around the teeth and jaw, often caused by caries.

Anti-Inflammatory

✖Tylenol PM

Anti-inflammatory drugs are especially good for muscle and joint pain as they not only block the pain, but also treat the cause.

Antipyretic (reduces body temperature)

✔Tylenol PM

Antipyretic drugs help to reduce body temperature. This helps patients feel better, however, this is not always recommended as fever may be a natural defense against infections.

Rheumatic pain

✖Tylenol PM

Rheumatic pain is pain in the joints and connective tissue, most commonly caused by arthritis.

Muscle pain

✔Tylenol PM

Muscle pain can be caused by exercise or other stress, and infections such as the flu.

Migraine

✔ Tylenol PM

Migraine is a very severe headache often accompanied by other symptoms such as flickering light, blind spots, tingling and sensitivity to light.