Experts warn not to take painkillers before taking the COVID-19 vaccine

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI): We know that some people like to take an over-the-counter painkiller before taking a vaccine, but experts recommend that this not be done.

It used to be a common practice for parents who took their children to be vaccinated: they gave their children Tylenol or Ibuprofen before vaccinations with the thought that it would prevent side effects such as mild fever, fatigue or arm pain.

But while medication can dampen side effects, it can also dampen the body’s immune response.

Experts suggest that if you have the COVID-19 vaccine, do not take an analgesic before it is something you take daily.

If you had significant side effects from the first dose, talk to your doctor about taking something after getting the second dose.

Researchers are not entirely sure that this will decrease the effectiveness of the vaccine, but they believe it will.

There are also other things you can do after taking a shot that can help you with side effects, such as applying a cold compress to your arm, making sure you move your arm, drink plenty of fluids, and get more rest.