Antihistamine/acetaminophen (By mouth)

Introduction:

Treats aches, pains, trouble sleeping, and allergy symptoms such as itchy, watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing, and sore throat.

Brand Name(s):

Cefinal II, Night-Time Pain Reliever/Sleep Aid, Non-Aspirin PM Extra Strength, Tylenol PM Extra Strength, Good Sense Pain Relief PM, The Medicine Shoppe Medi-Tabs PM, Rite Aid Acetaminophen PM, Tylenol Cold Relief, Tylenol Day & Night, Good Sense Pain Reliever & Sleep Aid PM, Good Sense Headache PM, Excedrin PM, Good Sense Headache Relief, Percogesic Extra Strength, Quality Choice Cold Relief

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to acetaminophen (Tylenol®), or to diphenhydramine (Benadryl®). Do not give any over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold medicine to a baby or child under 4 years old. Using these medicines in very young children might cause serious or possibly life-threatening side effects.

How to Use This Medicine:

Capsule, Tablet, Packet, Liquid

  • Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
  • This combination medicine contains acetaminophen (Tylenol(R)). Carefully check the labels of all other medicines you are using because they may also contain acetaminophen. It is not safe to use more than 4 grams (4,000 milligrams) of acetaminophen in one day (24 hours).
  • If you are using this medicine without a prescription, follow the instructions on the medicine label.
  • Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.
  • Place the oral powder on your tongue, and then take a drink of water or another liquid. You may also put the powder into a glass of water or other liquid, stir it, and then drink it.

If a dose is missed:

  • If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.
  • Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Do not also use other medicines that contain acetaminophen or diphenhydramine, including topical (skin) medicine. You may be getting more than a safe amount of these medicines.
  • Tell your doctor if you are using any medicines that make you sleepy. These include sleeping pills, cold and allergy medicine, narcotic pain relievers, and sedatives.
  • Do not drink alcohol while you are using this medicine. Acetaminophen taken with alcohol can increase your risk of damage to your liver. If you regularly drink three or more alcoholic drinks every day, do not take any medicines that contain acetaminophen without asking your doctor.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding, or if you have glaucoma, kidney problems, or liver problems. Tell your doctor if you have a history of breathing problems such as asthma or COPD (emphysema or chronic bronchitis). Make sure your doctor knows if you have trouble urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland. Tell your doctor if you drink alcohol on a regular basis. Make sure your doctor knows if you have had an allergic reaction to any antihistamine, and about any other health problems you may have.
  • Do not give this medicine to anyone under 12 years of age, unless a doctor tells you to.
  • This medicine may make you drowsy. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.
  • Do not use this medicine for more than 10 days. Do not use this medicine to treat fever for more than 3 days, unless a doctor tells you to do so. If you have trouble sleeping that lasts for longer than 2 weeks, stop using this medicine and talk to your doctor.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Redness or swelling.
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