What are the potential dangers of mixing Tylenol PM and alcohol. How does the combination affect liver function. What precautions should be taken when using these substances together. What are the recommended dosages and usage guidelines for Tylenol PM. How can one safely manage pain relief while consuming alcohol.

Understanding Tylenol PM and Its Active Ingredients

Tylenol PM is a popular over-the-counter medication that combines pain relief with a sleep aid. Its two active ingredients are acetaminophen and diphenhydramine. Acetaminophen, also known as paracetamol, is an analgesic and antipyretic used to relieve pain and reduce fever. Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine that causes drowsiness, making it effective as a sleep aid.

How does Tylenol PM work? The acetaminophen component targets pain receptors in the body, while diphenhydramine blocks histamine, inducing sleepiness. This combination aims to provide pain relief and improve sleep quality for those suffering from minor aches and pains that may interfere with rest.

The Dangers of Mixing Tylenol PM and Alcohol

Combining Tylenol PM with alcohol can lead to serious health risks. The primary concern lies in the interaction between alcohol and acetaminophen, which can significantly impact liver function. When consumed together, these substances compete for the same liver enzymes responsible for their metabolism, potentially leading to toxic buildup and liver damage.

Is it ever safe to mix Tylenol PM and alcohol? While moderate alcohol consumption (up to 3 drinks per day) may be tolerated by some individuals taking regular strength Tylenol, it’s generally advised to avoid alcohol completely when using Tylenol PM. The added drowsiness caused by diphenhydramine further increases the risks associated with alcohol consumption.

Potential Side Effects of Combining Tylenol PM and Alcohol

• Increased risk of liver damage
• Enhanced sedation and drowsiness
• Impaired cognitive function and motor skills
• Increased risk of accidental injury
• Potential for respiratory depression
• Worsened sleep quality

Impact on Liver Function

The liver plays a crucial role in metabolizing both acetaminophen and alcohol. When these substances are combined, it can overwhelm the liver’s capacity to process them effectively. Acetaminophen is broken down into a toxic metabolite that is normally neutralized by the liver. However, alcohol consumption depletes the liver’s stores of glutathione, a compound necessary for detoxifying this metabolite.

How does this combination affect liver cells? The toxic buildup can lead to hepatocellular necrosis, where liver cells die off, potentially resulting in acute liver failure. This risk is significantly higher in individuals who regularly consume alcohol or have pre-existing liver conditions.

Recommended Usage and Dosage Guidelines

When using Tylenol PM, it’s essential to follow the recommended dosage guidelines strictly. The maximum daily dose of acetaminophen should not exceed 3,000 mg for adults. For Tylenol PM specifically, the typical dosage is two caplets at bedtime, not to be repeated more frequently than every 24 hours.

How long can one safely use Tylenol PM? It’s generally advised not to use Tylenol PM for more than 10 consecutive days without consulting a healthcare provider. Prolonged use can lead to tolerance and may mask underlying health issues that require medical attention.

Key Dosage Guidelines:

1. Do not exceed 2 caplets in 24 hours
2. Wait at least 24 hours between doses
3. Do not use for more than 10 consecutive days
4. Avoid alcohol consumption while using Tylenol PM
5. Consult a healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen

Alternatives for Pain Management and Sleep Aid

For individuals who consume alcohol regularly or are concerned about the risks associated with Tylenol PM, there are alternative options for managing pain and sleep issues. Natural remedies and lifestyle changes can often provide relief without the potential dangers of drug interactions.

What are some safe alternatives to Tylenol PM? Consider the following options:

• Non-pharmacological pain management techniques (e.g., heat therapy, massage, acupuncture)
• Natural sleep aids (e.g., melatonin, valerian root, chamomile tea)
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I)
• Regular exercise and stress reduction techniques
• Improved sleep hygiene practices

Recognizing Signs of Liver Damage

Given the potential for liver damage when mixing Tylenol PM and alcohol, it’s crucial to be aware of the signs and symptoms of liver problems. Early detection and intervention can prevent more serious complications.

What symptoms might indicate liver damage? Be alert for the following:

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

If you experience any of these symptoms, especially after combining Tylenol PM and alcohol, seek medical attention immediately. Prompt treatment can prevent further liver damage and improve outcomes.

Safe Pain Management Strategies for Alcohol Consumers

For individuals who consume alcohol regularly and require pain management, it’s essential to develop safe strategies that minimize health risks. Consulting with a healthcare provider is crucial to determine the most appropriate approach based on individual circumstances.

How can alcohol consumers safely manage pain? Consider these strategies:

1. Explore non-acetaminophen pain relievers (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen) under medical supervision
2. Implement lifestyle changes to reduce pain (e.g., weight management, physical therapy)
3. Use topical pain relief products when appropriate
4. Consider prescription pain management options under close medical supervision
5. Explore alternative therapies such as acupuncture or chiropractic care

It’s important to note that while these strategies may be safer for alcohol consumers, they still carry risks and should be implemented under medical guidance. Regular communication with healthcare providers is essential to ensure safe and effective pain management.

Understanding Drug Interactions and Contraindications

Tylenol PM can interact with various other medications and medical conditions, beyond its interaction with alcohol. Understanding these potential interactions is crucial for safe usage and preventing adverse effects.

What other substances or conditions may interact with Tylenol PM? Be aware of the following:

• Other medications containing acetaminophen
• Antihistamines and sleep aids
• Certain antidepressants (e.g., MAO inhibitors)
• Blood thinners (e.g., warfarin)
• Liver disease or hepatitis
• Kidney disease
• Glaucoma
• Enlarged prostate

Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and health conditions before using Tylenol PM. This ensures that potential interactions and contraindications are thoroughly evaluated to prevent complications.

Special Considerations for Older Adults

Older adults may be more susceptible to the side effects of Tylenol PM, particularly the drowsiness caused by diphenhydramine. The risk of falls and cognitive impairment may be increased in this population. Additionally, age-related changes in liver and kidney function can affect how the body processes both acetaminophen and alcohol.

How should older adults approach pain management and sleep issues? Consider these recommendations:

1. Consult with a healthcare provider before using Tylenol PM
2. Explore non-pharmacological sleep strategies
3. Consider lower doses of medications when necessary
4. Be vigilant for side effects and report them promptly
5. Regularly review all medications with a healthcare provider to minimize interactions

The Importance of Responsible Alcohol Consumption

While the focus has been on the dangers of mixing Tylenol PM and alcohol, it’s crucial to address responsible alcohol consumption in general. Excessive alcohol use can lead to numerous health problems, including liver disease, cardiovascular issues, and increased cancer risk.

What constitutes responsible alcohol consumption? The CDC defines moderate drinking as up to 1 drink per day for women and up to 2 drinks per day for men. However, it’s important to note that even moderate drinking can pose risks for some individuals, depending on their health status and medication use.

Tips for Responsible Alcohol Consumption:

• Know your limits and stick to them
• Avoid binge drinking (4 or more drinks for women, 5 or more for men within 2 hours)
• Stay hydrated by alternating alcoholic beverages with water
• Never drink and drive
• Be aware of how alcohol interacts with any medications you’re taking
• Consider alcohol-free days to prevent dependence

By practicing responsible alcohol consumption, you can reduce the risk of harmful interactions with medications like Tylenol PM and improve overall health outcomes.

Seeking Professional Medical Advice

Given the complexity of drug interactions and individual health factors, it’s crucial to seek professional medical advice when considering the use of Tylenol PM, especially if you consume alcohol. Healthcare providers can offer personalized recommendations based on your specific health profile and needs.

When should you consult a healthcare provider about Tylenol PM and alcohol use? Consider reaching out in the following situations:

• Before starting any new medication regimen
• If you have a history of liver or kidney problems
• When experiencing persistent pain or sleep issues
• If you’re considering long-term use of Tylenol PM
• When you’re unsure about potential drug interactions
• If you experience any unusual symptoms or side effects

Remember, healthcare providers are your best resource for navigating the complexities of medication use and alcohol consumption. They can help you develop a safe and effective strategy for managing pain and sleep issues while minimizing health risks.

The Role of Pharmacists in Medication Safety

Pharmacists play a crucial role in ensuring medication safety and can provide valuable guidance on the use of over-the-counter medications like Tylenol PM. They are knowledgeable about drug interactions, side effects, and proper usage guidelines.

How can pharmacists help with medication safety? They can:

1. Review your current medications for potential interactions
2. Provide guidance on proper dosage and timing of medications
3. Offer alternatives if Tylenol PM is not suitable for your situation
4. Educate you on the risks associated with combining medications and alcohol
5. Answer questions about side effects and proper storage of medications

Don’t hesitate to consult your local pharmacist for advice on over-the-counter medications. Their expertise can help you make informed decisions about your health and medication use.

Developing a Comprehensive Pain Management Plan

For individuals dealing with chronic pain or recurrent sleep issues, it’s essential to develop a comprehensive management plan that goes beyond relying solely on medications like Tylenol PM. A multifaceted approach can lead to better outcomes and reduced reliance on potentially risky medication combinations.

What elements should be included in a comprehensive pain management plan? Consider incorporating the following:

• Regular exercise and physical therapy
• Stress reduction techniques (e.g., meditation, yoga)
• Dietary modifications to support overall health
• Cognitive behavioral therapy for pain management
• Alternative therapies like acupuncture or massage
• Proper sleep hygiene practices
• Regular check-ins with healthcare providers

By addressing pain and sleep issues from multiple angles, you can often reduce the need for medications and minimize the risks associated with their use. Work with your healthcare provider to develop a plan tailored to your specific needs and health goals.

The Importance of Patient Education

Empowering patients with knowledge about their medications, including over-the-counter options like Tylenol PM, is crucial for promoting safe and effective use. Understanding the risks, benefits, and proper usage guidelines can help prevent adverse effects and ensure optimal outcomes.

How can patients educate themselves about medication safety? Consider these strategies:

1. Read medication labels and package inserts thoroughly
2. Ask questions during healthcare appointments and pharmacy visits
3. Utilize reliable online resources for medication information
4. Attend community health education events
5. Keep a personal medication record and share it with healthcare providers

By taking an active role in your health education, you can make more informed decisions about medication use and reduce the risk of harmful interactions or side effects.

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.

Switch to professional interaction data

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
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• Reviews (36)
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Related treatment guides

• Headache
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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

Is It Safe To Mix Alcohol & Tylenol (Acetaminophen)?

Mixing Tylenol (acetaminophen) and alcohol can be dangerous and can damage your liver and kidneys. Learn how the two substances interact and how it can be harmful to your body.

Article at a Glance:

It can be harmful to mix alcohol and Tylenol.

The biggest risk tends to be to the liver, but this combination can also increase the risk of kidney disease.

You should never drink more than three alcoholic beverages in a day, and you should always make sure you’re not combining Tylenol with any other medicine that contains acetaminophen.

You should never take more than 3,000 mg of acetaminophen in a day, and you shouldn’t take it for longer than ten days in a row.

Can You Mix Alcohol and Tylenol?

To put it simply, if you’re asking “can you mix alcohol and Tylenol,” the answer is no.

The standard guideline is that if you’re taking acetaminophen, you should have no more than three drinks in a day, but many physicians and pharmacists will recommend avoiding alcohol altogether. This is because the risks are so high.

For example, a standard serving size of alcohol tends to be much smaller than what most people would think. With wine as an example, a standard drink is only five ounces. It’s very easy to go over what’s meant as the guideline for moderate drinking and put yourself at risk as a result.

The Risks of Mixing Alcohol and Tylenol

There are enzymes found in your liver that are responsible for breaking down substances that enter the body. If you drink, it can make it more difficult for your liver to break down and process the Tylenol. When this happens, you’re at risk for severe liver damage. This risk goes up as you take more of the pain reliever or drink more alcohol.

When your body uses acetaminophen for fever or pain relief, it produces a toxic substance called NAPQI. NAPQI is metabolized by a substance called glutathione. By taking too much acetaminophen, the body’s glutathione is depleted, so it is unable to metabolize and process other harmful substances. This leads to a toxic buildup of NAPQI. When toxic substances build in the body, it can lead to liver damage.

When you experience liver damage, it can reduce the functionality of this vital organ and it can also lead to pressure in the brain, and abnormal bleeding or swelling.

What is Tylenol?

Tylenol is the brand name for acetaminophen, an over-the-counter (OTC) pain and fever reducer. It’s one of the most commonly used pain medicines in the world and can be used to treat everything from headaches to arthritis. Acetaminophen is also an ingredient in other combination products available as prescriptions and over-the-counter.

There are many different forms of Tylenol on the market including Tylenol Children’s, Tylenol Extra Strength, Tylenol Cold and Flu, Tylenol Allergy, Tylenol PM, and others.

Some of the brand name medications that contain acetaminophen include Theraflu and DayQuil, which are used to treat colds and the flu. Prescription drugs with acetaminophen include Norco and Percocet, among others. When acetaminophen is included in prescription pain relievers, it’s combined with another active ingredient, often opioid painkillers.

How Does Acetaminophen Work? Is it Safe?

Acetaminophen is classified as a non-opioid analgesic. It blocks an enzyme that produces prostaglandins, which create pain and inflammation. It’s different from NSAIDs, like aspirin, because it doesn’t reduce swelling and inflammation. It can also be used for the treatment of migraines, and it’s often combined with aspirin and caffeine in the drug Excedrine.

Despite how widely used Tylenol is, and the fact that it’s considered relatively safe, there is the potential for an acetaminophen overdose. People who take more than the maximum dosage of Tylenol, which is usually 3,000 milligrams in a day, may experience severe side effects including liver damage, acute liver failure, or death. The dose should never exceed 3,000 mg per day unless advised by a physician.

For the most part, acetaminophen overdoses are accidental. People simply don’t realize how much they’re taking and how severe the side effects can be.

Symptoms of liver damage can include yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes, pain in the upper right portion of your abdomen, swelling of the abdomen, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, tiredness, and sweating.

Liver damage from the combination of alcohol and Tylenol is called acute liver damage, and this condition can occur very quickly. For many people, it’s possible to recover from liver damage resulting from mixing alcohol and Tylenol, but for some people, the damage can be pervasive or can lead to death.

Some people are at a higher risk of liver damage than others. For example, people with existing liver damage should not use or combine the two substances. Also, binge drinkers or heavy drinkers should avoid Tylenol.

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Editor – Nicole LaNeve

Nicole leads a team of passionate, experienced writers, editors and other contributors to create and share accurate, trustworthy information about drug and alcohol addiction, treatment and recovery for The Recovery Village and all Advanced Recovery Systems sites. Read more

Medically Reviewed By – Dr. Conor Sheehy, PharmD, BCPS, CACP

Dr. Sheehy completed his BS in Molecular Biology at the University of Idaho and went on to complete his Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) at the University of Washington in Seattle. Read more

American Society of Health-System Pharmacists. “

Medical Disclaimer

The Recovery Village aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with substance use or mental health disorder with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers.

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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.