It’s important to be cautious when taking two medications simultaneously. Even familiar over-the-counter (OTC) drugs might not always interact well within your body. Nonetheless, certain OTC medications, such as Benadryl and ibuprofen, can be taken together safely.
A quick overview: Benadryl is an antihistamine, with diphenhydramine as its active component. WebMD describes diphenhydramine’s primary function as relieving symptoms like allergic reactions, nasal congestion, watery eyes, and sneezing. (If you prefer not to pay full price for Benadryl, generic or store-brand diphenhydramine can sometimes be found at a lower cost.)
What role does ibuprofen play? As a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), ibuprofen is effective in reducing pain, according to the Mayo Clinic. It can also help lower fever or ease joint inflammation discomfort. Like diphenhydramine, ibuprofen is available in both brand-name (e.g., Advil, Motrin) and generic versions.
While Benadryl and ibuprofen serve different purposes, their effects can complement each other.
For instance, the Cleveland Clinic points out that taking Benadryl and ibuprofen according to the recommended dosage for your age can help you sleep when you’re unwell with a cold or virus. If body aches, a cough, nasal congestion, or a high temperature are keeping you awake, these medications may allow you to rest safely, provided your doctor hasn’t advised against it due to a pre-existing condition or allergy.
Ibuprofen and Benadryl Together Provide Added Benefit
An advantage of combining Benadryl and ibuprofen is addressing multiple bothersome issues without needing a prescription. For example, if you’re sick with a headache and runny nose, both can make sleep difficult due to breathing difficulties or inability to relax. Benadryl targets the runny nose, while ibuprofen alleviates the headache, enabling restful sleep to promote quicker recovery.
How much Benadryl and ibuprofen can be consumed together? Drugs.com suggests adults seeking sleep-inducing effects can take up to 38 milligrams of Benadryl and 200 milligrams of ibuprofen twice daily. However, you don’t always have to calculate the dosages yourself. Advil and other manufacturers offer an OTC product called Advil PM, which contains a safe blend of diphenhydramine and ibuprofen. According to the Advil website, each Advil PM capsule contains 25 milligrams of diphenhydramine and 200 milligrams of ibuprofen. Thus, you can take one pill or liquid dose for relief without needing to manage two separate medications. (Who doesn’t appreciate the convenience and speed when struggling to sleep?)
Avoiding Complications with Ibuprofen and Benadryl
This doesn’t imply that taking Benadryl with ibuprofen is free from potential drawbacks. Those sensitive to either medication might experience unwanted side effects, as both share many common side effects.
For example, WebMD lists constipation, upset stomach, and dizziness as typical ibuprofen side effects. Interestingly, WebMD notes similar potential side effects for Benadryl, such as dry mouth and drowsiness. Consequently, taking Benadryl and ibuprofen together might double the symptoms.
If you’re uncertain about taking ibuprofen and Benadryl together, or if it’s your first time, consult your healthcare provider. A trusted medical professional’s approval can lead to a more informed and confident decision.
For parents of children under 12, it’s wise to check with your child’s pediatrician before administering a combination of ibuprofen and Benadryl. The Mayo Clinic indicates that the outcomes of concurrent pediatric dosing for both ibuprofen and diphenhydramine in children 11 and younger haven’t been well studied.
“`
