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How Excedrin Works

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The ingredients in Excedrin work together to ensure effective pain relief for different kinds of pain.

  • How caffeine and aspirin work together

    Caffeine is referred to as an ‘analgesic adjuvant’. This means that it helps to boost the effects of certain pain relievers. In the case of Excedrin, caffeine boosts the pain-relieving effects of aspirin and acetaminophen – making these medicines up to 40% more effective.

    That’s why you’ll find caffeine in almost all Excedrin products. Only Excedrin PM Headache does not contain caffeine, as caffeine consumed too close to bedtime can keep you from getting a good night’s sleep.

  • How Excedrin PM helps with sleep

    Excedrin PM contains diphenhydramine citrate (38mg), which is used as a nighttime sleep aid. It’s recommended that you take Excedrin PM up to 2 hours before going to sleep, to help relieve head pain and help you fall asleep.

  • How Head Care works

    Drug-free Head Care helps support your head health and comfort.* Head Care Proactive Health provides a consistent supply of nutrients for your body helping support your health and wellbeing when taken daily.* Head Care Replenish products help support your head health by addressing the specific needs commonly experienced after a migraine.* ^

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How can Excedrin Help?

Different head health needs may need different solutions. Answer a few simple questions, and the product selector will tell you which Excedrin product could be right for you.

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Head Care products are not intended to treat migraines.

^As compared to falling asleep without melatonin. Melatonin helps you fall asleep and is for occasional sleepiness.*

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.