What is Diphenhydramine and ibuprofen?
Diphenhydramine acts as an antihistamine. Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal analgesic drug (NSAID). A combination medicine of diphenhydramine and ibuprofen can be used to treat insomnia that is associated with minor aches or pains. Diphenhydramine and ibuprofen are not recommended for treating insomnia with no pain or frequent sleep problems. Use of diphenhydramine with ibuprofen in children and adults over 12 years is recommended.This medication guide does not list all possible uses for diphenhydramine or ibuprofen.
Side effects of Diphenhydramine and ibuprofen
If you experience symptoms of an allergic response (hives or difficulty breathing, swelling on your face or in your throat), a severe reaction to the skin (fever or a sore throat), or have rashes or blisters with a red or purple color, seek emergency medical attention.Should any of the symptoms listed above arise, seek emergency medical assistance immediately.
This medicine can cause serious side effects. If you experience:
- Any skin rash;
- A feeling of lightheadedness, as if you could pass out.
- Signs of stomach bleeding include bloody or tarry stool, vomiting that looks like coffee, or coughing up blood.
- Kidney problems: little or no urinating; painful or difficult urination; swelling of the feet or ankles; feeling tired or short of breath.
- Liver problems: nausea, upper stomach pains, itching and fatigue, flu-like symptoms; loss of appetite; dark urine; clay-colored stools; jaundice.
Side effects of diphenhydramine or ibuprofen include:
- Drowsiness;
- Day-time drowsiness, dizziness, "hangover" feeling;
- Stomach upset; heartburn; diarrhea
- Dry mouth, nose, or throat
- Blurred vision
- Itching and rash that is mild
- Ringing in the ears
There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. Contact the FDA by dialing 1-800-FDA-1088 in order to report adverse side effects.
Similar/related drugs
Quviviq, Aspirin, Acetaminophen, Tramadol, Naproxen, Oxycodone, and Tylenol
Warnings
Ibuprofen increases your risk of a fatal stroke or heart attack. Diphenhydramine or ibuprofen should not be taken before or after heart bypass surgery. Ibuprofen can also cause fatal stomach or intestinal bleeding. Follow the instructions on this medication. Too much diphenhydramine may cause serious heart problems, seizures, or even death.
Before you take this drug
Ibuprofen may increase your risk of a fatal heart attack or stroke even if there are no risk factors. This medicine should not be taken before or after heart bypass surgery.Ibuprofen can also cause fatal stomach or intestinal bleeding. You may not be aware of these conditions if you use diphenhydramine or ibuprofen.This statement applies particularly to older adults.This medicine should not be used if you're allergic to diphenhydramine, ibuprofen, or if your asthma attacks or severe allergic reactions have occurred after you took aspirin or NSAIDs.
Have You experienced any of the Following?
- Heart disease, high blood pressure
- A heart attack, stroke, or blood clot
- Stomach ulcers or bleeding
- A breathing problem such as asthma or chronic bronchitis.
- Liver or kidney disease
- Glaucoma;
- An enlarged prostate, or problems with urination.
- If you are taking aspirin for heart attacks or stroke prevention,
If you plan to get pregnant or are currently pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medication. Ibuprofen taken during the last twenty weeks of pregnancy can cause serious kidney problems for the unborn child.Consult your doctor before taking this medication if you're breastfeeding.
How to take Diphenhydramine and ibuprofen?
Follow the directions on the label or those prescribed by your physician. Use the lowest effective dose to treat your condition.Too much diphenhydramine may cause serious heart problems, seizures, or even death.Diphenhydramine and ibuprofen are not recommended for children younger than 12 years of age. Ask a doctor for advice before giving antihistamines to children. Misuse can lead to death in young children.If you have an upset stomach, take this medication with milk or food.Take this medication for no more than 10 days unless your doctor has prescribed it.If your symptoms don't improve or worsen, call your doctor.Tell your doctor or surgeon, if you've taken this medication within the last few days, if you are going to need medical testing or surgery.Store away from heat and moisture at room temperature.
Details on dosage
Usual Adult Dose for Insomnia:
DiphenhydrAMINE-ibuprofen 38 mg-200 mg oral tablet:
Take 2 tablets at night, but not more than 2 tablets per day.
DiphenhydrAMINE-ibuprofen 25 mg-200 mg oral capsule:
Take 2 capsules at night, but not more than 2 capsules per day.
Usual pediatric dose for insomnia:
Twelve years or older
DiphenhydrAMINE-ibuprofen 38 mg-200 mg oral tablet:
Take 2 tablets at night, but not more than 2 tablets per day.
DiphenhydrAMINE-ibuprofen 25 mg-200 mg oral capsule:
Take 2 capsules at night, but not more than 2 capsules per day.
What happens if I miss the dose?
You may not have a schedule for diphenhydramine or ibuprofen, as they are used only when necessary. If it is almost time to take your next dose, skip the missed dose. Never take two doses in one go.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.
What should be avoided?
Do not drive or engage in hazardous activities until you have determined how ibuprofen and diphenhydramine will affect you. You may be unable to react properly.Consult your doctor or pharmacist prior to using any other medications for pain, fever, or swelling. These medicines may contain ibuprofen or diphenhydramine. Avoid using diphenhydramine as an anti-itch medication on your skin.Avoid alcohol. Alcohol can increase the risk of stomach bleeding.Aspirin should only be taken if your doctor recommends it.
Interaction with other drug
Before taking ibuprofen and diphenhydramine, ask your doctor if you are on an antidepressant. Certain antidepressants may cause you to bruise or bleed easily.
Before taking ibuprofen or diphenhydramine with other medications, ask your doctor.
- A blood thinner (warfarin; Coumadin; Jantoven);
- A diuretic, or "water pill".
- Diphenhydramine (Benadryl), used on the skin
This list is incomplete. Diphenhydramine, ibuprofen, and other drugs, such as vitamins, herbal products, prescription and over-the-counter medicines, and prescription medications, may interact with each other. This list does not include all possible drug interactions
