Motrin PM

Generic name: diphenhydramine citrate and ibuprofen

Drug class: Analgesic combinations

Dosage form: Coated caplets

Route of administration: Oral

Dose: Adults and children 12 years and over: Take 2 caplets at bedtime. Do not take more than 2 caplets in 24 hours. Children under 12 years: Ask a doctor.

Mechanism of action: Diphenhydramine citrate is an antihistamine that promotes drowsiness by blocking histamine receptors in the brain. Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces pain and inflammation by inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzymes, leading to decreased prostaglandin synthesis.

Drug usage cases:

• Relief of occasional sleeplessness associated with minor aches and pains
• Temporary relief of minor aches and pains due to arthritis, headache, backache, and menstrual cramps

Drug contraindications:

• Allergy to diphenhydramine, ibuprofen, or other NSAIDs
• History of asthma attacks or severe allergic reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs
• Children under 12 years of age
• Before or after heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG)

Side effects:

• Serious side effects: Allergic reactions (hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat), severe skin reactions (fever, sore throat, burning eyes, skin pain, red or purple skin rash with blistering and peeling), signs of stomach bleeding (bloody or black stools, coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds), kidney problems (little or no urinating, painful or difficult urination, swelling in feet or ankles, feeling tired or short of breath), liver problems (nausea, upper stomach pain, itching, tired feeling, flu-like symptoms, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice)
• Common side effects: Drowsiness, daytime drowsiness, dizziness, “hangover” feeling, upset stomach, heartburn, diarrhea, constipation, dry mouth, nose, or throat, blurred vision, mild itching or rash, ringing in the ears

Warnings:

• Ibuprofen can increase the risk of fatal heart attack or stroke. Do not use just before or after heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG).
• Ibuprofen may cause stomach or intestinal bleeding, which can be fatal. This risk is higher in older adults.
• Taking too much diphenhydramine can lead to serious heart problems, seizures, coma, or death.
• Do not take more than 2 caplets in 24 hours.
• Avoid alcoholic drinks while using this product.
• Do not drive a motor vehicle or operate machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
• Taking this product with other medications containing diphenhydramine or ibuprofen may lead to an overdose.

Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding: Consult a healthcare provider before using this product if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. It is especially important not to use ibuprofen at 20 weeks or later in pregnancy unless directed by a doctor, as it may cause problems in the unborn child or complications during delivery.