Can You Overdose on Tylenol PM?
Tylenol PM is a popular over-the-counter medication that contains both acetaminophen and diphenhydramine. Acetaminophen is a pain-reliever, while diphenhydramine is an antihistamine that can cause drowsiness. When combined, these two drugs can alleviate pain and help individuals fall asleep.
While Tylenol PM is generally safe when used as directed, taking too much of the medication can lead to an overdose. In this article, we’ll explore what happens when you overdose on Tylenol PM, how to avoid an overdose, and what to do if you or someone you know has taken too much of the medication.
Symptoms of a Tylenol PM Overdose
There are several symptoms of a Tylenol PM overdose, including:
- nausea
- vomiting
- abdominal pain
- confusion
- blurred vision
- flushing
- dry mouth
- difficulty breathing
- convulsions or seizures
If you or someone you know has taken too much Tylenol PM and experiences any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. Liver and kidney damage can occur if the overdose is not treated promptly.
How Much Tylenol PM is Too Much?
The recommended dose of Tylenol PM for adults is two tablets taken at bedtime. It’s important to avoid taking more than the recommended dose, as this can lead to an overdose. Additionally, you should not take Tylenol PM if you have consumed alcohol, as this can increase the risk of liver damage.
Avoiding a Tylenol PM Overdose
The best way to avoid a Tylenol PM overdose is to follow the instructions on the label carefully. Only take the recommended dose, and never take more than the recommended amount. Additionally, you should avoid drinking alcohol while taking Tylenol PM, as this can increase the risk of liver damage.
If you have any questions about how to take Tylenol PM safely, be sure to talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
Treatments for a Tylenol PM Overdose
If you or someone you know has taken too much Tylenol PM, seek medical attention immediately. Treatment for an overdose of Tylenol PM will depend on how much of the medication was taken and how soon after the overdose the individual received medical attention.
If the overdose is caught early, the individual may be given activated charcoal to help absorb the medication and prevent it from being absorbed into the bloodstream. Additionally, the individual may be given medication to help protect the liver.
In severe cases, the individual may need to undergo a liver transplant if the liver has been severely damaged.
Preventing Tylenol PM Overdose
The best way to prevent a Tylenol PM overdose is to take the medication as directed and avoid taking more than the recommended dose. Additionally, you should avoid drinking alcohol while taking Tylenol PM, as this can increase the risk of liver damage.
If you have any concerns about taking Tylenol PM or any other medication, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. They can provide you with information on potential side effects and interact with other medications you may be taking.
Conclusion
Tylenol PM is a useful medication for relieving pain and helping individuals fall asleep. However, taking too much of the medication can lead to an overdose, which can cause liver and kidney damage. If you suspect that you or someone you know has taken too much Tylenol PM, seek medical attention immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Tylenol PM overdoses:
- Can you overdose on Tylenol PM?
- Yes, taking too much Tylenol PM can lead to an overdose.
- What are the symptoms of a Tylenol PM overdose?
- Symptoms of a Tylenol PM overdose include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, confusion, blurred vision, flushing, dry mouth, difficulty breathing, and convulsions or seizures.
- How much Tylenol PM is too much?
- The recommended dose of Tylenol PM for adults is two tablets taken at bedtime. Do not take more than the recommended dose.
- What should I do if I or someone I know has taken too much Tylenol PM?
- Seek medical attention immediately. Treatment for a Tylenol PM overdose will depend on how much of the medication was taken and how soon after the overdose medical attention was received.
This article was written based on the research done in References section below:
References
- Mayo Clinic Staff. (2020, December 1). Acetaminophen and caffeine (Oral Route). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/acetaminophen-and-caffeine-oral-route/description/drg-20065439.
- U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2021, April 15). Acetaminophen Overdose. MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002598.htm.
- U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2021, March 15). Diphenhydramine. MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682539.html.