Diphenhydramine + Paracetamol
Find more information about this combination medication at the webpages for Diphenhydramine and Paracetamol
Perennial Allergic Rhinitis, Nausea ... show more
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Advisory
- This medicine contains a combination of 2 drugs Diphenhydramine and Paracetamol.
- Each of these drugs treats a different disease or symptom.
- Treating different diseases with different medicines allows doctors to adjust the dose of each medicine separately. This prevents overmedication or undermedication.
- Most doctors advise making sure that each individual medicine is safe and effective before using a combination form.
Drug Status
Government Approvals
None
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Histamine-1 Receptor Antagonist
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Summary
Diphenhydramine is used to relieve allergy symptoms, prevent motion sickness, and treat insomnia. Paracetamol is used for mild to moderate pain and fever. They are often used together to manage symptoms that involve both pain and sleeplessness, such as those associated with colds or flu.
Diphenhydramine works by blocking histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms. It also has sedative properties that help with sleep. Paracetamol works by altering the way the body senses pain and regulates temperature, providing pain relief and reducing fever.
The usual adult dose for Diphenhydramine is 25 to 50 mg every 4 to 6 hours, not exceeding 300 mg per day. For Paracetamol, the typical adult dose is 500 to 1000 mg every 4 to 6 hours, with a maximum of 4000 mg per day.
Common side effects of Diphenhydramine include drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, and nausea. Paracetamol is generally well-tolerated but can cause liver damage if taken in excessive amounts. Both medications can cause serious side effects if misused, such as severe allergic reactions or liver damage.
Important warnings for Diphenhydramine include avoiding use in children under 4 years and caution in older adults due to increased risk of side effects. Paracetamol should not be taken in excess of 4000 mg per day to prevent liver damage. Both medications should be used with caution in individuals with liver disease and alcohol should be avoided.
Indications and Purpose
How does combination of Diphenhydramine and Paracetamol work?
Diphenhydramine works by blocking the action of histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms, and it also has sedative properties that help with sleep. Paracetamol works by altering the way the body senses pain and regulates temperature, providing pain relief and reducing fever. Both medications are absorbed into the bloodstream and act on different pathways to alleviate symptoms, providing a combined effect of allergy relief, pain reduction, and fever control.
How effective is combination of Diphenhydramine and Paracetamol?
Diphenhydramine's effectiveness is supported by its ability to block histamine, providing relief from allergy symptoms and aiding sleep. Paracetamol is proven to reduce pain and fever by altering pain perception and regulating body temperature. Both medications are widely used and have been studied extensively, demonstrating their efficacy in providing symptom relief. Their combined use in products for pain and sleeplessness is based on their complementary actions, offering a comprehensive approach to managing symptoms.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of combination of Diphenhydramine and Paracetamol?
For diphenhydramine, the usual adult dose is 25 to 50 mg every 4 to 6 hours, not exceeding 300 mg per day. For paracetamol, the typical adult dose is 500 to 1000 mg every 4 to 6 hours, with a maximum of 4000 mg per day. Both medications should be taken as directed on the package or by a healthcare provider to avoid overdose and potential side effects. It's important to follow dosing instructions carefully, especially when using combination products.
How does one take combination of Diphenhydramine and Paracetamol?
Diphenhydramine and paracetamol can be taken with or without food. However, taking them with food may help reduce stomach upset. It's important to avoid alcohol while taking diphenhydramine, as it can increase drowsiness. For paracetamol, avoid consuming more than 4000 mg per day to prevent liver damage. Always follow the dosing instructions on the package or provided by a healthcare professional.
For how long is combination of Diphenhydramine and Paracetamol taken?
Diphenhydramine and paracetamol are typically used for short-term relief of symptoms. Diphenhydramine is often used as needed for allergies, motion sickness, or sleep issues, while paracetamol is used for temporary pain and fever relief. Both medications should not be used for extended periods without consulting a healthcare provider, as prolonged use can lead to side effects or mask underlying conditions.
How long does it take for combination of Diphenhydramine and Paracetamol to work?
Diphenhydramine and paracetamol typically start working within 30 minutes to an hour after ingestion. Diphenhydramine, an antihistamine, begins to relieve symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes relatively quickly. Paracetamol, a pain reliever and fever reducer, also acts fast to alleviate mild to moderate pain and reduce fever. Both medications are absorbed into the bloodstream and start to exert their effects shortly after administration, providing relief from symptoms.
Warnings and Precautions
Are there harms and risks from taking combination of Diphenhydramine and Paracetamol?
Common side effects of diphenhydramine include drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, and nausea. Paracetamol is generally well-tolerated but can cause liver damage if taken in excessive amounts. Both medications can cause serious side effects if misused, such as severe allergic reactions or liver damage. It's important to use them as directed to minimize the risk of adverse effects.
Can I take combination of Diphenhydramine and Paracetamol with other prescription drugs?
Diphenhydramine can interact with sedatives, tranquilizers, and alcohol, increasing drowsiness. Paracetamol can interact with blood thinners like warfarin, potentially affecting bleeding risk. Both medications should be used cautiously with other drugs that contain similar active ingredients to avoid overdose. It's important to consult a healthcare provider before combining these medications with other prescriptions.
Can I take combination of Diphenhydramine and Paracetamol if I am pregnant?
Diphenhydramine is generally considered safe during pregnancy when used as directed, but it should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Paracetamol is also considered safe for use during pregnancy for pain and fever relief, but it should be used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration. Pregnant women should always consult their healthcare provider before using these medications to ensure safety for the developing fetus.
Can I take combination of Diphenhydramine and Paracetamol while breastfeeding?
Diphenhydramine is generally not recommended during breastfeeding as it can pass into breast milk and may affect the infant, causing drowsiness or irritability. Paracetamol is considered safe for use during breastfeeding when taken as directed, as it passes into breast milk in small amounts. It's important for breastfeeding mothers to consult with a healthcare provider before using these medications to ensure safety for the infant.
Who should avoid taking combination of Diphenhydramine and Paracetamol?
Important warnings for diphenhydramine include avoiding use in children under 4 years and caution in older adults due to increased risk of side effects. Paracetamol should not be taken in excess of 4000 mg per day to prevent liver damage. Both medications should be used with caution in individuals with liver disease, and alcohol should be avoided. It's crucial to follow dosing instructions and consult a healthcare provider if unsure.
