What Ingredients Are in Advil PM?
Advil PM contains ibuprofen (200 mg, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug or NSAID) for pain relief and diphenhydramine (38 mg, an antihistamine) for sleep aid.[1] Interactions depend on these components.
Common Medications That Interact with Advil PM
Avoid or use caution with:
- Blood thinners like warfarin or aspirin: Ibuprofen increases bleeding risk.1
- Other NSAIDs (e.g., naproxen, celecoxib): Raises stomach ulcer or kidney damage risk.[1]
- ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril), diuretics (e.g., furosemide), or lithium: Ibuprofen can reduce their effectiveness or worsen kidney function.2
- Antidepressants (e.g., SSRIs like fluoxetine): Combined with ibuprofen, heightens bleeding risk.[1]
- Sedatives, alcohol, or other sleep aids (e.g., benzodiazepines): Diphenhydramine amplifies drowsiness and impairs coordination.1
- Certain antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole) or antivirals (e.g., ritonavir): Affect ibuprofen processing in the liver.2
Medications Generally Safe with Advil PM
Most antibiotics (e.g., amoxicillin), statins (e.g., atorvastatin), and common antihypertensives like calcium channel blockers have no major interactions.2 Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is usually fine short-term, but avoid chronic use to prevent liver strain from diphenhydramine.[1]
Risks of Mixing with Alcohol or Recreational Drugs
Alcohol with ibuprofen irritates the stomach lining, risking ulcers or bleeding. Combined with diphenhydramine, it causes severe sedation. Opioids or cannabis worsen respiratory depression.1
What Happens If You Mix Them Anyway?
Mild interactions cause drowsiness or upset stomach. Serious ones lead to kidney failure, gastrointestinal bleeding, or overdose symptoms like confusion, seizures, or coma. Seek immediate medical help for chest pain, black stools, or breathing issues.[1]
Who Should Avoid Advil PM with Other Drugs?
People with kidney disease, ulcers, asthma, high blood pressure, glaucoma, or enlarged prostate face higher risks. Pregnant individuals (especially third trimester) or those over 65 should consult a doctor first.1
When to Check with a Doctor or Pharmacist
Always review your full medication list, including supplements like St. John's wort (interacts with diphenhydramine). Use tools like the FDA's interaction checker or ask a professional before combining.2 Dose adjustments may be needed for chronic conditions.
[1]: https://www.drugs.com/drug-interactions/diphenhydramine-ibuprofen%2Cadvil-pm.html