Long-Term Effects of Taking Tylenol PM
1. It May Mask an Underlying Sleep Problem
It’s not uncommon to have sleep struggles here or there, but needing a medication like Tylenol PM to fall asleep every night could mean that you have an underlying problem that isn’t being addressed.
“To improve sleep, it’s important to know why falling asleep or staying asleep is difficult, because the treatment options are specific to the cause,” Podgurecki says.
Tylenol PM can also be the cause of sleep problems, because the medication may suppress REM sleep, leading to further sleep deprivation.
2. It Can Become Less Effective Over Time
“Quality of sleep becomes worse, and the person may have grogginess the next day,” says Podgurecki. “And in some people, it can paradoxically stimulate the central nervous system, which can result in difficulty sleeping.”
3. It Can Lead to Liver Damage
“There’s an increased risk of acute liver damage with taking chronic high doses if someone consumes more than three alcoholic drinks per day,” says Podgurecki.
Mixing sleep aids like Tylenol PM with alcohol or other sedatives can also increase the risk of overdosing and death.
4. You May Experience Insomnia or Withdrawal When You Stop Taking It
You may also experience symptoms of withdrawal.
“Abrupt cessation of high doses can cause acute withdrawal symptoms manifested by high fever, hypertension, and bowel and bladder incontinence,” Podgurecki says.
