As someone who struggles with occasional insomnia, I know firsthand how frustrating it can be to not be able to fall asleep. And when it comes to trying to get some shut-eye, many people turn to over-the-counter sleep aids like Tylenol PM. But how long does Tylenol PM take to make you sleepy? Let’s take a closer look.
First, it’s important to understand what Tylenol PM actually is. The medication is a combination of acetaminophen (the pain reliever found in regular Tylenol) and diphenhydramine (an antihistamine commonly used to treat allergies). Diphenhydramine can also cause drowsiness, which is why it’s included in Tylenol PM.
According to the Tylenol PM website, the medication should be taken 30 minutes before bedtime. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that you will feel the effects of the medication immediately. In fact, it can take anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour for diphenhydramine to start making you feel sleepy.
This can vary depending on a number of factors, including your age, weight, and overall health. Additionally, if you have recently eaten a large meal, it may take longer for the medication to be absorbed into your system.
Once you do start feeling sleepy, you can expect to stay that way for anywhere from four to six hours. This can be helpful for people who have trouble staying asleep throughout the night, as long as they don’t need to wake up before the medication wears off.
It’s worth noting that taking Tylenol PM on a regular basis can lead to a number of side effects, including dizziness, dry mouth, and constipation. Additionally, diphenhydramine can be habit-forming, so it’s important to use the medication only as directed.
If you find that Tylenol PM isn’t working as well as you’d like, there are a number of other things you can try to help you get a better night’s sleep. For example, practicing good sleep hygiene (such as establishing a regular bedtime and avoiding screens before bed) can be helpful for many people. Additionally, there are other over-the-counter sleep aids available that contain different ingredients, such as melatonin.
In conclusion, when taking Tylenol PM, it can take anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour for the diphenhydramine to make you feel sleepy, and you can expect to stay asleep for four to six hours. However, it’s important to use the medication only as directed and to be aware of the potential side effects. If Tylenol PM isn’t working for you, there are other options available that may be more effective in helping you get the restful sleep you need.