Does Tylenol make you sleepy?

Tylenol (acetaminophen) is an over-the-counter pain reliever and fever reducer. Most people do not experience drowsiness with Tylenol. None of the oral formulations list sleepiness as a side effect.

Some acetaminophen products, such as Tylenol PM, include an antihistamine (diphenhydramine or doxylamine) to help with sleep. In those products, the antihistamine—not the acetaminophen—causes drowsiness.

Keep reading for more information about Tylenol and answers to frequently asked questions.

What is Tylenol used for?

Tylenol is an analgesic and fever reducer used for:

  • Headaches
  • Backaches
  • Minor arthritis pain
  • Toothaches
  • Muscle aches
  • Premenstrual and menstrual cramps
  • Temporary reduction of fever

How does Tylenol work?

The exact mechanism is not fully known. It is thought to alter pain perception in the brain and act on the body’s heat‑regulating center to reduce fever.

What are the side effects of Tylenol?

Side effects are uncommon but may include nausea and headache.

Serious side effects requiring immediate medical attention include:

  • Allergic reaction such as rash, hives, swelling of face, tongue, or lips, or trouble breathing
  • Liver damage

Taking too much acetaminophen can cause severe, sometimes life‑threatening liver problems. Adults should not exceed 4,000 mg per day; children’s dosing should follow a healthcare provider’s recommendation. Limit or avoid alcohol while taking Tylenol. Signs of liver injury include dark urine, fatigue, abdominal pain, or yellowing of skin or eyes.

These are not all possible side effects. Always seek medical advice for questions or concerns, read prescribing information, and report adverse effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Are there drug interactions with Tylenol?

Tylenol may interact with other medications, vitamins, or supplements. Tell your healthcare provider about all you take, including:

  • Warfarin
  • Alcohol
  • Other products containing acetaminophen

When should you not take Tylenol?

Do not take Tylenol if you are allergic to acetaminophen or any inactive ingredients, or if you have severe liver disease or impairment.

What should you tell your healthcare provider before taking Tylenol?

Before starting Tylenol, inform your provider if you:

  • Have liver disease
  • Drink three or more alcoholic beverages per day
  • Have phenylketonuria (some products contain aspartame)
  • Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant
  • Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed

Is Tylenol an NSAID?

Tylenol is not a nonsteroidal anti‑inflammatory drug. Common NSAIDs include ibuprofen, aspirin, and naproxen, which work differently and can irritate the stomach.

How should you take Tylenol?

Tylenol is available as tablets, caplets, capsules, chewables, liquid, extended‑release tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, and rectal suppositories. Follow package directions or your provider’s instructions. Swallow extended‑release tablets whole. Let disintegrating tablets dissolve or chew them. Shake liquid formulations and use the provided measuring device—do not use a household spoon.

What should you do if you take too much Tylenol?

Tylenol is also found in many combination products. Read labels carefully to avoid overdose. For serious symptoms like loss of consciousness or breathing difficulty, call 911. Otherwise, contact poison control (US: 1-800-222-1222; Canada: 1-844-764-7669). Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, sweating, loss of appetite, stomach pain, extreme drowsiness, yellowing of eyes or skin, and dark urine.

Is it safe to take Tylenol every day?

It is generally safe to take Tylenol daily if you do not exceed 4,000 mg per day (some experts recommend 3,000 mg for daily users). If you have liver issues, you may need a lower limit. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized dosing advice.

Related Medications

  • Regular Strength Tylenol (acetaminophen)
  • Tylenol Extra Strength (acetaminophen)
  • Tylenol Arthritis (acetaminophen)
  • Aleve (naproxen sodium)
  • Advil (ibuprofen)
  • Motrin (ibuprofen)

Sources

  • Acetaminophen. StatPearls Publishing. Accessed Aug. 13, 2024.
  • Tylenol Regular Strength – acetaminophen tablet. DailyMed. Accessed Aug. 13, 2024.
  • Acetaminophen (OTC). Medscape. Accessed Aug. 13, 2024.
  • What is Acetaminophen? Johnson & Johnson Consumer Inc. Accessed Aug. 13, 2024.