Is It Safe To Take Both Advil And Advil PM In One Day?

Combining different drugs can be like mixing chemicals in a lab. If you plan to take Advil and Advil PM in one day, knowing how they interact with each other is vital. It's also important to understand how both drugs work individually.

The same manufacturer produces both Advil and Advil PM, but they contain different active ingredients and are used for different purposes. Advil is the brand name for ibuprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by blocking the production of certain chemicals in the body (known as prostaglandins) that can cause several effects including pain, inflammation, and uterine contractions per Healthline. Advil is commonly used to treat headaches, menstrual cramps, toothaches, backaches, and other types of pain. 

Advil PM, conversely, is a combination of ibuprofen and diphenhydramine, an antihistamine commonly used as a sleep aid, explains Drugs.com. Histamine is a chemical released by the body in response to an allergen. It increases blood flow to the affected area and triggers inflammation.  Antihistamines work by blocking the effects of histamine, per WebMD.  

Overall, Advil and Advil PM are two different medications that contain different active ingredients and are used for different purposes. However, when combining both medications, please do so with caution and follow the recommended dosage guidelines. Here's what you should know about using Mucinex and ibuprofen together safely.

Advil and Advil PM are generally safe when used as directed. According to Advil.com, it is possible to take Advil during the day and Advil PM at night. However, the company warns us to be cautious and check the dosage taken because the two medications contain 200 milligrams of ibuprofen. The total dose to be taken in any 24 hours should not exceed 1,200 milligrams when combining both drugs. As mentioned, Advil PM contains diphenhydramine — the maximum daily dose of diphenhydramine should not exceed 50 milligrams.

It's also important to note that ibuprofen can interact with other medications, including blood thinners like warfarin and certain corticosteroids like prednisone, which can increase the risk of side effects, says WebMD. A drug interaction occurs when one medication interferes with the way the other works in the body, per Healthline. Like a game of dominoes, this disruption can cause a chain reaction that leads to decreased effectiveness, increased side effects, or other potentially harmful effects. These interactions can happen between prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, and even herbal supplements.

Both Advil and Advil PM can also cause side effects in some individuals. To minimize the risk of side effects, always follow the instructions on the label and consult your doctor before taking any medication, especially when combining medications. Please also contact your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms while taking these medications.

It is generally recommended not to use Advil for longer than necessary. According to Drugs.com, certain people should be cautious when taking Advil, including those with a history of stomach ulcers, bleeding disorders, or heart disease. While Advil and Advil PM are generally considered safe when used as directed, side effects can occur like with all medications. The most common side effects of Advil include stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, and heartburn. These side effects occur because ibuprofen can be hard on the stomach and intestines, causing inflammation. Taking Advil with food and not exceeding the maximum daily dose is recommended to reduce the risk of these side effects. 

Advil PM can cause similar side effects as Advil, as well as drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired cognitive function due to the presence of diphenhydramine. These side effects can be more pronounced in older adults or individuals with liver disease, kidney disease, or asthma, according to Drugs.com. In rare cases, Advil PM can increase your risk of serious side effects, such as an allergic reaction, heart attack, stroke, or kidney failure, which are more likely to occur in individuals with a history of these conditions or who have taken these medications for a long time. Using caution when driving or operating heavy machinery while taking Advil PM is important.