Re: Addiction to Tylonol PM & Harmful Effects of Daily Asprin

Posted By Sara Graham on April 22, 1999 at 09:31:13
For almost two years now, I have been addicted to earplugs as the only way I can fall asleep.  About 2 months ago, I started having to take Tylonol PM in order to stay asleep and not wake up in the very early hours of the morning, unable to fall back asleep.  I currently take only one tablet each night, but am very worried about the longterm effects on my stomach, etc.  I have been having diarrhea and constipation alternately, and am wondering if that is related.  I also seem to be late on my period (2 weeks - NOT pregnant!).  Are you aware of any health risks with continual use of this drug?  (Note, the more important, underlying reason of why I need the earplugs and medication is also being addressed, but nobody can help me with my inquiries...)  Thank you!
Sara

[SA, M.D. - HVMA]

Posted By SA, M.D. - HVMA on April 26, 1999 at 14:38:56
Dear Sara,
Tylenol PM contains diphenhydramine (an antihistamine) and acetaminophen (an anti-inflammatory).  It does not contain aspirin.  Low daily doses of these 2 compounds are generally not harmful, although the purpose of the acetaminophen is to reduce pain and if someone is not in pain there is no reason to take a daily dose of any anti-inflammatory.  In such cases, diphenhydramine alone will help with sleep.
You should talk to your personal physician about the various physical symptoms and complaints you are having.
Good luck!
Steve Adelman, M.D. (a.k.a. DrSteve)
This information is for general medical education purposes only. Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options pertaining to your specific medical condition.

[Efie]

Posted By Effie on May 31, 1999 at 19:49:05
I've been taking various forms of diphenhydramine virtualy every night for about two years, most recently, Exedrin PM, thinking it was completely safe, or it wouldn't be sold over the counter.  For the last few months I've tried on weekends to stop taking it, and when I try to fall asleep, I can only fall "lightly" asleep, I feel as if I'm stuck between asleep and awake -- and I have horrible, horrible nightmares.   At first I thought it was just a coincidence and thought nothing of it, I'd just get up and take my usual nightly dosage of Exedrin PM and then I'd fall asleep normally.  However, I began to think it may not be a coincidence when this weekend I tried once again not taking my nightly dosage, I had the exact same symptoms with the nightmares and even experienced what felt like a horrifying out-of-body experience.  I finally woke myself up and RAN to get my Exedrin PM.  Now I'm really worried I may be addicted to it, although I can find no information about this anywhere.  I'm going to try again to stop "cold turkey" but if this keeps up, I guess I'm going to have to see a doctor.  I can't believe this is happening and I hope it's not as bad as I'm worrying it may be.    Is there anyone else out there with any advice or similar experiences?










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