What Are the Risks of Using Xanax and Advil PM or Ibuprofen PM Together?

logo by Editorial Staff | Updated on September 24th, 2023

When it comes to medication, it’s crucial to understand how different drugs interact with one another. One commonly queried combination is Xanax and Advil PM. While each serves a distinct medical purpose, combining them poses significant health risks. In this article, we’ll dive into the dangers of using these drugs simultaneously, their individual properties, side effects, and recommendations for safer medication management. This comprehensive look will equip you with the information you need to make informed decisions for your health.


The Risks of Combining Xanax and Advil PM

You might think that taking two medications each designed to make you feel better would double up on the good effects. Unfortunately, that’s far from the truth when it comes to Xanax and Advil PM. These two medications, when combined, can lead to severe adverse effects including excessive sleepiness, dizziness, and attention issues.

xanax and advil pm

Furthermore, the combination affects your mental faculties in detrimental ways. Activities requiring mental alertness become a challenge as your coordination, reasoning, and judgment can be severely compromised. If you’re an older adult, these risks amplify, posing a substantial health danger. Hence, the advice is crystal clear: avoid using Xanax and Advil PM simultaneously.

What is Xanax?

Xanax is a brand name for the drug alprazolam, often prescribed for treating panic disorders and anxiety. It belongs to the class of medications known as benzodiazepines, which act on specific receptors in the brain to increase the activity of Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), thereby producing a calming effect.

Xanax comes in several forms, including immediate-release tablets, extended-release tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, and even an oral solution. It’s important to note that alprazolam is a Schedule IV controlled substance. While this means it has a relatively lower risk of abuse compared to other controlled substances, abruptly stopping or reducing your dose can lead to severe and even life-threatening withdrawal symptoms.

Xanax’s Side Effects

When it comes to medication, it’s important to balance the benefits with the potential side effects, and Xanax is no exception. While beginning your treatment with Xanax, you may experience both minor and significant side effects.

Common side effects include but are not limited to, dry mouth, drowsiness, headaches, and memory issues. Some people also report constipation, difficulty focusing, and sleep disturbances. If you find that these side effects persist or worsen over time, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for advice.

What is Ibuprofen and How Is It Used?

Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), commonly used to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. It’s available over the counter and is generally taken in doses ranging from 200 to 400 mg up to three times a day, often after meals. Slow-release tablets are also available for sustained relief, particularly useful for nighttime pain.

For conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, prescription-only, higher-dosage options are available. If ibuprofen isn’t effective in managing your pain, or if you require long-term pain relief, a healthcare provider can prescribe a stronger NSAID or a more effective drug combination.

Ibuprofen’s Side Effects

Ibuprofen is generally considered safe when taken as directed. However, like any medication, it comes with its set of side effects. Common ones include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and heartburn. You may also experience headaches, dizziness, and even skin reactions like rashes.

More severe side effects include fluid retention and photosensitivity reactions. If any of these side effects are persistent or become bothersome, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for proper guidance.

Conclusion

Combining Xanax and Advil PM is risky and should be avoided. Each medication has its own set of potential side effects, and their interaction amplifies the dangers. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice, especially if you are considering combining medications. Being informed is the first step in ensuring your health and well-being.

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Editorial Staff

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