What is Diphenhydramine and naproxen?
Diphenhydramine acts as an antihistamine. Naproxen (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs) is an antihistamine. A combination medicine of diphenhydramine and naproxen can be used to treat insomnia that is occasionally associated with minor aches or pains. Diphenhydramine and Naproxen are not recommended for treating insomnia with no pain or frequent sleep problems.Use of diphenhydramine with naproxen in children and adults over 12 years is recommended.This medication guide does not list all possible uses for naproxen and diphenhydramine.
Side effects of Diphenhydramine and naproxen
If you experience symptoms of an allergic response (hives or difficulty breathing, swelling on your face or in your throat) or a severe reaction to the skin (fever or sore neck, burning or itching eyes, skin pain or blistering, or a red or purple rash with blistering or peeling), seek emergency medical attention.If you experience any of these symptoms, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
This medicine can cause serious side effects. If you experience:
- Any skin rash;
- A feeling of lightheadedness, as if you could pass out.
- New symptoms such as swelling or redness with pain or
- Signs of stomach bleeding include bloody or tarry stool, vomiting blood, or vomit that looks like coffee grounds.
Some of the common side effects associated with diphenhydramine or naproxen include:
- Drowsiness;
- Day-time drowsiness, dizziness, "hangover" feeling;
- Stomach upset; heartburn.
- Constipation;
- Blurred vision
- Dry throat, nose, or mouth.
There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.
Warnings
Naproxen increases your risk of a fatal stroke or heart attack. Diphenhydramine or naproxen should not be taken before or after heart bypass surgery. Naproxen 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
Even if you have no risk factors, Naproxen may increase your risk of a fatal heart attack or stroke. This medicine should not be used before or after heart bypass (coronary arterial bypass graft, or CABG). Naproxen can also cause fatal stomach or intestinal bleeding. You may not be aware of these conditions if you use diphenhydramine or naproxen. This is especially true for older adults. This medicine should not be used if you're allergic to naproxen or diphenhydramine, if your asthma has flared up, or if you had a severe allergic reaction or asthma attack after taking an NSAID or aspirin.
If you have had any of the following:
- High blood pressure, heart disease
- A heart attack, stroke, or blood clot
- Stomach ulcers or bleeding
- A breathing problem such as emphysema 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.Do not take an NSAID if you are pregnant unless you have been told to by your doctor. NSAIDs can cause kidney or heart problems for the unborn child and may also lead to complications during pregnancy.Consult your doctor before taking this medication if you're breastfeeding.
How to take Diphenhydramine and naproxen?
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 Naproxen are not recommended for children younger than 12 years of age. Ask a doctor for advice before administering an antihistamine. Misuse can lead to death in children.If you have an upset stomach, take this medication with milk or food.This medicine should not be taken if you have not had a good 7 or 8 hours of sleep before getting back to your normal activities. This medicine should not be taken for more than 10 days, unless your doctor has advised you to do so.If your symptoms don't improve within 10 days 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:
Initial dose: two caplets before bedtime
Maximum dose: two caplets per 24 hours
Use: For occasional sleeplessness caused by minor aches
Adult dose for pain:
Initial dose: two caplets before bedtime
Maximum dose: two caplets per 24 hours
Use: For occasional sleeplessness caused by minor aches
Usual pediatric dose for insomnia:
Children over the age of 12 are eligible.
Initial dose: two caplets before bedtime
Maximum dose: two caplets per 24 hours
The usual pediatric dose for pain:
Children over the age of 12 are eligible.
Initial dose: two caplets before bedtime
Maximum dose: two caplets per 24 hours
What happens if I miss the dose?
You may not have a schedule for diphenhydramine or naproxen, as they are used only when necessary. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip any 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?
You should avoid driving or other hazardous activities until you are sure of how naproxen and diphenhydramine will affect you. You may be unable to react.Before using any other medicine for pain, fever, swelling, or to treat cold or flu symptoms, consult your doctor or pharmacist. These medicines may contain naproxen or diphenhydramine. Avoid using diphenhydramine as an anti-itch medication on your skin.Aspirin should only be taken if your doctor recommends it.Avoid alcohol. Alcohol can increase the risk of stomach bleeding.
Interaction with other drug
If you are taking an antidepressant, ask your doctor if it is safe to use diphenhydramine or naproxen. Certain antidepressants may cause bruising and bleeding.
Before using naproxen or diphenhydramine with other medications, ask your doctor.
- Blood thinners (warfarin Coumadin and Jantoven);
- A diuretic, or "water pill".
- Diphenhydramine (Benadryl), used on the skin
This list is incomplete. Diphenhydramine, naproxen, 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.
