Medications like Tylenol PM, which includes this over-the-counter sleep aid, are not meant to be taken daily. Their sedative effects can quickly shift from helpful to harmful.
Read more: New study finds common medications may reduce dementia risk
Why many people abuse Tylenol PM without realizing it
A major concern is that most people don’t realize how easy it is to abuse this drug. Because Tylenol PM is widely available and well-known, it feels safe.
Boxes of Tylenol pain relievers are up close on a shelf. It was at a DOLLAR TREE in Hutchinson, Kansas, USA. It was 7/4/2024.
Source: Shutterstock
This trust can be misguided. For example, someone might take Tylenol PM to sleep and also take a cold medicine that contains acetaminophen. Without reading the labels, they could inadvertently exceed the daily limit.
Diphenhydramine presents another problem. Regular use can create tolerance, meaning the same dose becomes less effective. Users then increase the amount or frequency, increasing health risks.
This casual reliance on nighttime painkillers often leads to long-term use without understanding the consequences.
Read more: Millions who use popular sleep drugs at night may face increased risk of disability
