Tylenol® PM contains the main active ingredients: Acetaminophen and Diphenhydramine HCl.

Acetaminophen is a commonly used pain killer and fever reducer that is found in many over the counter products. Acetaminophen helps relieve pain by raising the user’s pain threshold, which creates a situation in which a larger amount of pain is needed before the user feels it. The ingredient can reduce fevers because it acts directly on the part of the brain where heat is regulated. It allows the “center” to know that it should lower the body’s temperature when feverish conditions exist.

Diphenhydramine HCl drives the sleep inducing portion of this medication, not because it is a “true” sleep inducer that works on the underlying cause of insomnia, but because one of its “side effects” is drowsiness. Diphenhydramine HCl is, in fact, an antihistamine, and as well as being used in this product it is the primary ingredient in allergy medicines. Diphenhydramine HCl is clearly used in Tylenol® PM because it may make some people feel sleepy.

However, it has been reported by some to possibly cause troublesome side effects such as: dry mouth, stomach problems, headache, and chest congestion, as well as more severe side effects.

Clearly, sleeplessness is a serious issue which can make those who are wrestling with it have a difficult time performing cognitively and physically; often impairing short-term memory, attentiveness and alertness. Persistent insomnia can also impair a person’s reflexes.

Some people find over the counter sleep aids useful, however, others clearly do not want to risk the side effects. Diphenhydramine HCl may well help some users drift off to sleep, however, it is really an antihistamine, and some consumers report that they would much rather use a element which specifically targets sleep. Additionally, why take pain medicine when all you really want to do is fall asleep?

Luckily, there are other very effective over the counter options available that can successfully target sleeplessness - naturally and herbally. As noted above, Melatonin has been shown to be an extremely effective way to help those suffering with sleeplessness fall into a deep sleep. It does this by directly realigning the sleep/wake cycle. For many reasons Melatonin production can decline, thereby causing sleep related problems. However, holistic supplementation has been shown to increase Melatonin levels and create a healthy and revitalizing sleep without side effects.

• Effective pain killer

• Why take a pain killer when actually seeking a sleep aid?
• Has side effects for some
• Excessive Acetaminophen may potentially damage the liver
• Not naturally-based product

Tylenol® can be an effective pain killer, and with the addition of the antihistamine Diphenhydramine HCl, insomnia may well be eased. However, not everyone feels comfortable taking a pain killer or an antihistamine on a regular basis to create sleep, especially when doing so can have a negative affect on the liver, and comes along with some other potential side effects. We usually suggest consumers who are considering this option thoroughly read the insert to see what possible side effects and contraindications are associated with this product.

For those seeking rest, there are other extremely effective natural alternatives, such as the ingredient Melatonin, which has been shown to effectively ease sleeplessness, as well as offer users a revitalizing and deep sleep. Melatonin is often teamed with Lemon Balm Extract, a rather potent herbal sedative, which has a long history of being used to boost sleep. Melatonin and Lemon Balm are often used together in the most results oriented holistic sleep aids because they are known to maximize sleep. Unlike most brick and mortar pharmacies, some herbal retailers offer a money-back guarantee.