Can You Take Benadryl And Advil Together?

In our latest question and answer, our pharmacist discusses whether or not Benadryl (diphenhydramine) can be taken with Advil (ibuprofen).

Question

Hi, I'm wondering if you can take Benadryl with Advil?

Asked by Thomas On Sep 27, 2022

Answered by
Medical Content Reviewed By HelloPharmacist Staff

Published Sep 27, 2022
Last updated Apr 25, 2024

Key points

  • There is no drug interaction between Benadryl (diphenhydramine) and Advil (ibuprofen). They can safely be taken together.

Answer

Yes, Benadryl (diphenhydramine) may be safely taken with Advil (ibuprofen). In fact, Advil PM is exactly this combination! Each dose of Advil PM contains 200 mg of ibuprofen and either 25 mg of diphenhydramine hydrochloride or 38mg diphenhydramine citrate.

What Is Benadryl?

Benadryl contains diphenhydramine, a sedating antihistamine marketed under many names, including Benadryl and ZzzQuil.

Benadryl is well known for treating the itchiness resulting from allergic reactions to things like insect bites, laundry detergent, or poison ivy. It can be taken orally but also comes in a topical form. In addition to treating allergy symptoms, Benadryl can help with insomnia due to the sedation it causes.

What Is Ibuprofen?

Ibuprofen is an NSAID that is used to treat fever as well as pain and inflammation caused by headaches, muscle aches, arthritis, menstrual cramps, and toothaches to name a few. Ibuprofen comes in 200mg when sold over the counter. Ibuprofen comes in 400mg, 600mg, and 800mg when dispensed with a prescription. Ibuprofen is not recommended on a daily basis because it can cause stomach irritation or ulcers when taken chronically.

Taking Benadryl With Ibuprofen

As mentioned above, Advil and Benadryl are a safe combination and can be taken together at night.

It is important to note that Benadryl can cause confusion and dizziness leading to falls in seniors, so it is not recommended for this population. It is also not recommended for children unless a doctor has advised or prescribed it.  

Always consult with your physician before taking any new medications. Each person's body reacts differently and it is good to talk to a doctor about new medications.

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References

About the Pharmacist

Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD

Dr. Brian has been practicing pharmacy for over 13 years and has wide-ranging experiences in many different areas of the profession. From retail, clinical, program development, and administrative responsibilities, he's your knowledgeable and go-to source for all your pharmacy and medication-related questions! Dr. Brian Staiger also has herbalist training and educational certificates in the field of medical ethnobotany. Feel free to send him an email at [email protected]! You can also connect with Dr. Brian Staiger on LinkedIn.

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