Diphenhydramine and naproxen

Generic name: diphenhydramine and naproxen [ DYE-fen-HYE-dra-meen-and-na-PROX-en ]
Brand name: Aleve PM
Dosage form: oral tablet (25 mg-220 mg)
Drug class: Analgesic combinations

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Dec 8, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is diphenhydramine and naproxen?

Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine. Naproxen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).

Diphenhydramine and naproxen is a combination medicine used to treat occasional insomnia associated with minor aches and pains. diphenhydramine and naproxen is not for use in treating sleeplessness without pain, or sleep problems that occur often.

Diphenhydramine and naproxen is for use in adults and children at least 12 years old.

Diphenhydramine and naproxen may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Diphenhydramine and naproxen side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction (hives, difficult breathing, swelling in your face or throat) or a severe skin reaction (fever, sore throat, burning eyes, skin pain, red or purple skin rash with blistering and peeling).

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of a heart attack or stroke: chest pain spreading to your jaw or shoulder, sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body, slurred speech, leg swelling, feeling short of breath.

This medicine may cause serious side effects. Stop using this medicine and call your doctor at once if you have:

• any skin rash, no matter how mild;

• a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;

• new symptoms, such redness or swelling with pain; or

• signs of stomach bleeding--bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds.

Common side effects of diphenhydramine and naproxen may include:

• drowsiness;

• day-time drowsiness, dizziness, "hangover" feeling;

• upset stomach, heartburn;

• constipation;

• blurred vision; or

• dry mouth, nose, or throat.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Naproxen can increase your risk of fatal heart attack or stroke. Do not use diphenhydramine and naproxen just before or after heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG). Naproxen may also cause stomach or intestinal bleeding, which can be fatal.

Use this medicine exactly as directed. Taking too much diphenhydramine can lead to serious heart problems, seizures, coma, or death.

Before taking this medicine

Naproxen can increase your risk of fatal heart attack or stroke, even if you don't have any risk factors. Do not use this medicine just before or after heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG).

Naproxen may also cause stomach or intestinal bleeding, which can be fatal. These conditions can occur without warning while you are using diphenhydramine and naproxen, especially in older adults.

You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to diphenhydramine or naproxen, or if you have ever had an asthma attack or severe allergic reaction after taking aspirin or an NSAID.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine is safe to use if you have ever had:

• heart disease, high blood pressure;

• a heart attack, stroke, or blood clot;

• stomach ulcers or bleeding;

• a breathing problem, such as asthma, emphysema, or bronchitis;

• liver or kidney disease;

• glaucoma;

• enlarged prostate or problems with urination; or

• if you take aspirin to prevent heart attack or stroke.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

If you are pregnant, you should not take this medicine unless your doctor tells you to. Taking an NSAID during the last 20 weeks of pregnancy can cause serious heart or kidney problems in the unborn baby and possible complications with your pregnancy.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are breastfeeding.

How should I take diphenhydramine and naproxen?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Use the lowest dose that is effective in treating your condition.

Taking too much diphenhydramine can lead to serious heart problems, seizures, coma, or death.

diphenhydramine and naproxen is not approved for use by anyone younger than 12 years old. Always ask a doctor before giving an antihistamine to a child. Death can occur from the misuse of antihistamines in very young children.

Take this medicine with food or milk if it upsets your stomach.

Do not take this medicine if you do not have a full 7 to 8 hours to sleep before being active again. Do not take this medicine for longer than 10 days without your doctor's advice.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 10 days, or if they get worse.

If you need surgery or medical tests, tell the surgeon or doctor ahead of time if you have taken this medicine within the past few days.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Diphenhydramine and naproxen dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Insomnia:

Initial dose: 2 caplets at bedtime
Maximum dose: 2 caplets in 24 hours

Use: To relief occasional sleeplessness associated with minor aches

Usual Adult Dose for Pain:

Initial dose: 2 caplets at bedtime
Maximum dose: 2 caplets in 24 hours

Use: To relief occasional sleeplessness associated with minor aches

Usual Pediatric Dose for Insomnia:

For children over 12 years old.
Initial dose: 2 caplets at bedtime
Maximum dose: 2 caplets in 24 hours

Usual Pediatric Dose for Pain:

For children over 12 years old.
Initial dose: 2 caplets at bedtime
Maximum dose: 2 caplets in 24 hours

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since diphenhydramine and naproxen is used when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. Skip any missed dose if it's almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while taking diphenhydramine and naproxen?

Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how diphenhydramine and naproxen will affect you. Your reactions could be impaired.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using other medicines for pain, fever, swelling, or cold/flu symptoms. They may also contain diphenhydramine or naproxen. Also avoid using diphenhydramine anti-itch medicine on your skin.

Avoid taking aspirin unless your doctor tells you to.

Avoid drinking alcohol. It may increase your risk of stomach bleeding.

What other drugs will affect diphenhydramine and naproxen?

Ask your doctor before using diphenhydramine and naproxen if you take an antidepressant. Taking certain antidepressants with an NSAID may cause you to bruise or bleed easily.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using diphenhydramine and naproxen with any other medications, especially:

• a blood thinner (warfarin, Coumadin, Jantoven);

• a diuretic or "water pill"; or

• diphenhydramine (Benadryl) used on the skin.

This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect diphenhydramine and naproxen, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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