Aspirin/Diphenhydramine

DEA Class;  OTC

Common Brand Names; Alka-Seltzer PM, Bayer PM

Antitussives, Non-narcotic Combos

Aspirin irreversibly blocks the COX pathway; Diphenhydramine: May cause significant confusional symptoms; not for administration to premature or full-term neonates.

Is used for the temporary Relief of Headache & Aches with Accompanying Sleeplessness

Indicated for temporary Relief of Headache & Aches with Accompanying Sleeplessness

Hypersensitivity

Liver damage

Hypoprothrombinemia

Vitamin K deficiency

Bleeding disorders

Asthma

Due to association of aspirin w/ Reye syndrome, do not use in children (<16 y) with viral infections

Use within 14 days of MAO inhibitor therapy

Narrow-angle glaucoma

Symptomatic prostate hypertrophy

Bladder-neck obstruction

Hypotension

Tachycardia

Agitation

Cerebral edema

Coma

Confusion

Dizziness

Headache

Subdural or intracranial hemorrhage

Lethargy

Hives

Rash May potential peptic ulcer & cause stomach distress or heartburn

Dyspepsia

GI bleeding

Ulceration & perforation

Nausea

Vomiting

Aspirin: May cause transient decrease in renal function and aggravate chronic kidney disease; avoid use in patients with severe anemia, history of blood coagulation defects, or taking anticoagulants

Diphenhydramine: May cause significant confusional symptoms; not for administration to premature or full-term neonates

Pregnancy category: D, avoid aspirin during pregnancy, especially during third trimester (risk for premature closure of ductus arteriosus)

Lactation: excreted in breast milk; do not breast feed

Pregnant or breastfeeding patients should seek advice of health professional before using OTC drugs

Adults

2 caplets PO qHS with water PRN

Pediatric 

<12 years

Not recommended

>12 years

2 tablets PO qHS with water PRN

Caplet

500mg/38.3mg