Experts warn against taking painkillers before receiving the COVID-19 vaccine

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) – We know that some people like to take an over-the-counter pain reliever before receiving the vaccine, but experts do not recommend it.

It used to be a common practice for parents who took their children for immunizations – they gave their children Tylenol or ibuprofen before vaccinations, thinking it would avoid side effects like low fever, tiredness or pain in the arm.

But while medication can lessen side effects, it can also decrease your body’s immune response.

Experts suggest that if you are taking the COVID-19 vaccine, do not take a pain reliever before, unless it is something you take daily.

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

The researchers are not sure if this decreases the vaccine’s effectiveness, but they believe it does.

There are also other things you can do after receiving an injection that can help with side effects, including applying a cold compress to your arm, making sure you move your arm, drink plenty of fluids and get some rest.