What are the active and inactive ingredients in Benadryl. How does diphenhydramine HCl work as an antihistamine. What are the different formulations of Benadryl available. How do the ingredients in children’s Benadryl differ from adult versions.

The Active Ingredient: Diphenhydramine HCl

Benadryl’s primary active ingredient is diphenhydramine hydrochloride (HCl), a potent antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms and common cold discomfort. This compound belongs to the first-generation antihistamine class and works by blocking histamine receptors in the body.

Diphenhydramine HCl has several key characteristics:

• It competes with histamine for cell receptor sites on effector cells
• A single oral dose is rapidly absorbed, with peak effectiveness occurring around one hour after ingestion
• Its effects typically last between four to six hours
• The compound is widely distributed throughout the body, including the central nervous system (CNS)
• Most of the drug is metabolized in the liver rather than excreted unchanged in urine

Why is diphenhydramine HCl so effective for allergy relief? The compound’s ability to block histamine receptors helps reduce common allergy symptoms like sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose. Its sedative properties can also aid in alleviating discomfort and promoting rest during allergy flare-ups.

Inactive Ingredients in Benadryl Tablets

While the active ingredient does the heavy lifting, various inactive ingredients play crucial roles in the formulation and effectiveness of Benadryl tablets. These components contribute to the tablet’s structure, stability, and palatability.

Tablet Structure and Stability

• Carnauba Wax: Provides a shiny coating to the tablets
• Dibasic Calcium Phosphate: Helps bind the tablet ingredients together
• Microcrystalline Cellulose NF (Avicel PH-102): Another binding agent for tablet integrity
• Croscarmellose Sodium NF: Facilitates tablet breakdown in the stomach
• Magnesium Stearate: Prevents ingredients from sticking to each other and manufacturing equipment

Appearance and Taste

• D&C Red No. 27 Aluminum Lake: Provides color to the tablets
• Titanium Dioxide: Creates a bright white coating
• Hypromellose: Helps mask the bitter taste of the active ingredient
• Polyethylene Glycol: Maintains tablet coating flexibility and structure
• Polysorbate 80: Ensures uniform incorporation of coating ingredients

How do these inactive ingredients enhance the overall effectiveness of Benadryl? By improving the tablet’s stability, appearance, and taste, these components ensure that the medication is both palatable and able to deliver its active ingredient effectively.

Children’s Benadryl: Tailored Formulations

Children’s Benadryl contains many of the same active ingredients as the adult version but is formulated differently to appeal to younger users and ensure proper dosing. The liquid formulation includes several unique ingredients:

Flavor and Sweetness

• Bubble Gum and Cherry Flavors: Improve palatability for children
• Glycerin: Sweetens and helps dissolve the active ingredient
• Saccharin Sodium: Provides additional sweetness
• Sucralose: Offers sweetness and blocks bitterness
• Sorbitol Solution: Adds hydration and sweetness
• Monoammonium Glycyrrhizinate MM 100P: Blocks bitterness to improve flavor

Stability and Consistency

• Anhydrous Citric Acid: Maintains product stability and enhances flavor
• Carboxymethylcellulose Sodium: Thickens the solution for improved consistency
• Edetate Disodium: Preserves product stability
• Sodium Chloride USP: Stabilizes the product and improves flavor
• Sodium Citrate and Sodium Citrate Dihydrate: Maintain product stability
• Sodium Benzoate: Acts as a preservative

Why are these specific ingredients chosen for children’s formulations? The focus on improved flavor, sweetness, and texture makes the medication more appealing to children, increasing the likelihood of successful administration. Additionally, the liquid form allows for more precise dosing based on a child’s weight and age.

Topical Benadryl: Skin Relief Formulation

Benadryl also offers topical formulations for skin relief, which contain a unique set of ingredients tailored for external use:

• Alcohol and SD Alcohol 38-B: Act as solvents and provide a cooling effect
• Camphor: Offers analgesic and antipruritic properties
• Cetyl Alcohol: Emollient and thickening agent
• Citric Acid and Sodium Citrate: pH adjusters
• Diazolidinyl Urea: Preservative
• Glycerin: Moisturizer and solvent
• Methylparaben and Propylparaben: Preservatives
• Polyethylene Glycol Monostearate 1000: Emulsifier
• Povidone: Binding agent
• Propylene Glycol: Solvent and moisturizer
• Tromethamol: pH adjuster

How do these ingredients work together in topical Benadryl? This combination of compounds creates a formulation that can be easily applied to the skin, provides immediate cooling and soothing effects, and helps relieve itching and minor skin irritations.

Understanding Diphenhydramine’s Mechanism of Action

Diphenhydramine HCl, the active ingredient in Benadryl, belongs to a class of drugs known as antihistamines. Its primary mechanism of action involves blocking histamine receptors in the body, particularly H1 receptors.

Histamine Receptor Blockade

When diphenhydramine enters the body, it competes with histamine for binding sites on H1 receptors. By occupying these receptors, it prevents histamine from attaching and triggering allergy symptoms. This competitive inhibition is the cornerstone of diphenhydramine’s antihistamine effects.

Central Nervous System Effects

Diphenhydramine can cross the blood-brain barrier, allowing it to act on the central nervous system. This property contributes to its sedative effects, which can be beneficial for alleviating allergy-related discomfort but may also cause drowsiness as a side effect.

Anticholinergic Properties

In addition to its antihistamine action, diphenhydramine exhibits anticholinergic effects. It blocks acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in various bodily functions. This action can lead to drying effects, which may help reduce symptoms like runny nose and watery eyes.

Why is understanding this mechanism important? Knowing how diphenhydramine works helps users appreciate its broad range of effects, from allergy relief to potential side effects like drowsiness and dry mouth.

Comparing Benadryl Formulations: Tablets vs. Liquid vs. Topical

Benadryl offers various formulations to cater to different needs and preferences. Let’s compare the key aspects of tablets, liquid, and topical forms:

Tablets

• Contain 25 mg or 50 mg of diphenhydramine HCl per tablet
• Offer precise dosing for adults and older children
• Longer shelf life compared to liquid forms
• May be more challenging for those with difficulty swallowing pills

Liquid

• Typically contains 12.5 mg of diphenhydramine HCl per 5 mL
• Allows for flexible dosing, especially for children
• Easier to swallow for those who struggle with pills
• Often includes flavoring to improve palatability
• May require refrigeration after opening

Topical

• Designed for external use on the skin
• Contains additional ingredients for soothing and cooling effects
• Targeted relief for localized itching and skin irritations
• Lower risk of systemic side effects compared to oral forms

How do you choose the right formulation? Consider factors such as age, ability to swallow pills, specific symptoms, and personal preferences when selecting the most appropriate Benadryl product.

Safety Considerations and Potential Side Effects

While Benadryl is generally considered safe when used as directed, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects and safety considerations:

Common Side Effects

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth, nose, and throat
• Constipation
• Blurred vision

Precautions and Warnings

Certain individuals should exercise caution or avoid using Benadryl:

• People with certain medical conditions (e.g., glaucoma, enlarged prostate, breathing problems)
• Those taking other medications that may interact with diphenhydramine
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women
• Children under 6 years old (consult a doctor first)

Potential for Misuse

Due to its sedative effects, there’s a potential for misuse of diphenhydramine as a sleep aid. Prolonged use for this purpose is not recommended and may lead to tolerance or other health issues.

Why is it crucial to be aware of these safety considerations? Understanding potential risks and side effects allows users to make informed decisions about using Benadryl and recognize when to seek medical advice.

The Future of Antihistamine Formulations

As pharmaceutical research continues to advance, the future of antihistamine formulations like Benadryl may see several exciting developments:

Targeted Delivery Systems

Researchers are exploring new ways to deliver antihistamines more efficiently to their target sites. This could lead to formulations that provide faster relief with fewer side effects.

Long-Acting Formulations

Extended-release versions of diphenhydramine or similar antihistamines could offer longer-lasting relief, reducing the need for frequent dosing.

Combination Products

Future formulations might combine antihistamines with other active ingredients to address multiple symptoms simultaneously, providing more comprehensive relief for allergy sufferers.

Natural and Synthetic Alternatives

Ongoing research into both natural antihistamines and novel synthetic compounds could lead to new options with improved efficacy and safety profiles.

Personalized Formulations

Advancements in pharmacogenomics may pave the way for personalized antihistamine formulations tailored to an individual’s genetic makeup and specific allergy profile.

How might these potential developments impact allergy treatment? These advancements could lead to more effective, longer-lasting, and personalized allergy relief options, improving the quality of life for millions of allergy sufferers worldwide.

BENADRYL® Ingredients List | BENADRYL®

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Active Ingredient: Diphenhydramine HCl

The active ingredient in BENADRYL® is an antihistamine called diphenhydramine HCl. Antihistamines are used for relief from symptoms related to hay fever, upper respiratory allergy, or the common cold .

MORE ABOUT DIPHENHYDRAMINE HCL

BENADRYL® Ingredients

Carnauba Wax

Gives the tablets their shine

Croscarmellose Sodium NF

Helps break down the tablet in your stomach

D&C Red No. 27 Aluminum Lake

Provides nice color

Dibasic Calcium Phosphate

Helps hold the tablet together

Hypromellose

Helps mask bitter taste

Magnesium stearate

Coats ingredients and helps prevent them from sticking to each other and to other things

Microcrystalline Cellulose NF (Avicel PH-102)

Helps hold the tablet together

Polyethylene Glycol

Helps maintain the flexibility and structure of the tablet coating

Polysorbate 80

Helps incorporate the coating ingredients to make them uniform

Titanium dioxide

Creates a bright white coating

Children’s BENADRYL® Ingredients

Anhydrous citric acid

Helps keep the product stable and improves flavor

Carboxymethylcellulose Sodium

Thickens to improve the consistency of the product

Edetate disodium

Helps keep the product stable

D&C red no.

33

Provides kid friendly color

FD&C Blue no.1

Provides kid friendly color

FD&C Red no. 40

Provides kid friendly color

Flavors (Bubble Gum)

Improves the flavor of the product

Flavors (Cherry)

Improves the flavor of the product

Glycerin

Used to sweeten and help dissolve the active ingredient in medicine

Monoammonium Glycyrrhizinate MM 100P

Used to improve flavor by blocking bitterness

Poloxamer 407 NF

Thickens to improve the consistency of the product

Purified water

Acts as a base for our products

Saccharin Sodium

Provides sweetness to improve taste and flavor

Sodium Chloride USP

Helps keep product stable and improves flavor

Sodium Citrate

Helps keep product stable

Sodium Citrate Dihydrate

Helps keep product stable

Sodium Benzoate

Helps keep the product stable

Sorbitol Solution

Provides hydration and sweetness to improve the flavor

Sucralose

Provides sweetness and blocks bitterness of the active ingredient to improve the flavor

Sucrose

Provides sweetness to improve the flavor

Other Children’s Benadryl® Ingredients

Crospovidone, D&C red no. 30 aluminum lake, D&C red no.7 calcium lake, dextrose excipient, ethylcellulose, gum arabic, sugar spheres, and tartaric acid

Topical BENADRYL® Ingredients

Alcohol, camphor, cetyl alcohol, citric acid, diazolidinyl urea, glycerin, methylparaben, polyethylene glycol monostearate 1000, povidone, propylene glycol, propylparaben, SD alcohol 38-B, sodium citrate, and tromethamine

Related Products

BENADRYL® Extra Strength Allergy Relief Antihistamine Tablets with 50 mg of Diphenhydramine HCl

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BENADRYL® Allergy ULTRATABS® Tablets with Allergy Relief and Diphenhydramine HCI 25 mg

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Original Strength BENADRYL® Itch Stopping Cream Topical Analgesic for Skin Relief

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Diphenhydramine: Package Insert – Drugs.com

Package insert / product label
Generic name: Diphenhydramine hydrochloride
Dosage form: oral solution
Drug classes: Anticholinergic antiemetics, Anticholinergic antiparkinson agents, Antihistamines, Miscellaneous anxiolytics, sedatives and hypnotics

Medically reviewed by Drugs. com. Last updated on Feb 20, 2023.

Rx ONLY

On This Page

• Description
• Clinical Pharmacology
• Indications and Usage
• Contraindications
• Warnings
• Precautions
• Patient Counseling Information
• Drug Interactions
• Adverse Reactions/Side Effects
• Overdosage
• Dosage and Administration
• How Supplied/Storage and Handling

Diphenhydramine Description

Diphenhydramine hydrochloride is an antihistamine drug having the chemical name 2-(diphenylmethoxy)-N,N -dimethylethylamine hydrochloride and has the molecular formula C 17H 21NO•HCI (molecular weight 291.82). It occurs as a white odorless, crystalline powder and is freely soluble in water and alcohol. The structural formula is as follows:

Each 5 mL contains 12.5 mg of Diphenhydramine hydrochloride and alcohol 14% for oral administration. Inactive Ingredients: Citric acid, D&C Red No. 33, FD&C Red No. 40, flavoring, purified water, sodium citrate, and sucrose.

Diphenhydramine – Clinical Pharmacology

Diphenhydramine hydrochloride is an antihistamine with anticholinergic (drying) and sedative effects. Antihistamines appear to compete with histamine for cell receptor sites on effector cells.

A single oral dose of Diphenhydramine hydrochloride is quickly absorbed with maximum activity occurring in approximately one hour. The duration of activity following an average dose of Diphenhydramine hydrochloride is from four to six hours. Diphenhydramine is widely distributed throughout the body, including the CNS. Little, if any, is excreted unchanged in the urine; most appears as the degradation products of metabolic transformation in the liver, which are almost completely excreted within 24 hours.

Indications and Usage for Diphenhydramine

Diphenhydramine hydrochloride in the oral form is effective for the following indications:

Antihistaminic

For allergic conjunctivitis due to foods; mild, uncomplicated allergic skin manifestations of urticaria and angioedema; amelioration of allergic reactions to blood or plasma; dermatographism; as therapy for anaphylactic reactions adjunctive to epinephrine and other standard measures after the acute manifestations have been controlled.

Motion Sickness

For active and prophylactic treatment of motion sickness.

Antiparkinsonism

For parkinsonism (including drug-induced) in the elderly unable to tolerate more potent agents; mild cases of parkinsonism (including drug-induced) in other age groups; in other cases of parkinsonism (including drug-induced) in combination with centrally acting anticholinergic agents.

Nighttime Sleep-aid.

Contraindications

Use in Neonates or Premature Infants

This drug should not be used in neonates or premature infants.

Use in Nursing Mothers

Because of the higher risk of antihistamines for infants generally, and for neonates and prematures in particular, antihistamine therapy is contraindicated in nursing mothers.

Antihistamines are also contraindicated in the following conditions

Hypersensitivity to Diphenhydramine hydrochloride and other antihistamines of similar chemical structure.

Warnings

Antihistamines should be used with considerable caution in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma, stenosing peptic ulcer, pyloroduodenal obstruction, symptomatic prostatic hypertrophy, or bladder-neck obstruction.

Use in Pediatric Patients

In pediatric patients, especially, antihistamines in overdosage may cause hallucinations, convulsions, or death. As in adults, antihistamines may diminish mental alertness in pediatric patients. In the young pediatric patient, particularly, they may produce excitation.

Use in the Elderly (approximately 60 years or older)

Antihistamines are most likely to cause dizziness, sedation, and hypotension in elderly patients.

Precautions

General

Diphenhydramine hydrochloride has an atropine-like action and therefore, should be used with caution in patients with a history of bronchial asthma, increased intraocular pressure, hyperthyroidism, cardiovascular disease or hypertension. Use with caution in patients with lower respiratory disease including asthma.

Information for Patients

Patients taking Diphenhydramine hydrochloride should be advised that this drug may cause drowsiness and has an additive effect with alcohol. Patients should be warned about engaging in activities requiring mental alertness such as driving a car or operating appliances, machinery, etc.

Drug Interactions

Diphenhydramine hydrochloride has additive effects with alcohol and other CNS depressants (hypnotics, sedatives, tranquilizers, etc.). MAO inhibitors prolong and intensify the anticholinergic (drying) effects of antihistamines.

Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

Long-term studies in animals to determine mutagenic and carcinogenic potential have not been performed.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy Category B

Reproduction studies have been performed in rats and rabbits at doses up to 5 times the human dose and have revealed no evidence of impaired fertility or harm to the fetus due to Diphenhydramine hydrochloride. There are, however, no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, this drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.

Pediatric Use

Diphenhydramine hydrochloride should not be used in neonates and premature infants (see CONTRAINDICATIONS).

Diphenhydramine hydrochloride may diminish mental alertness, or, in the young pediatric patient, cause excitation. Overdosage may cause hallucinations, convulsions, or death (see WARNINGS and OVERDOSAGE).

See also DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION section.

Adverse Reactions

The most frequent adverse reactions are underscored.

1. General: Urticaria, drug rash, anaphylactic shock, photosensitivity, excessive perspiration, chills, dryness of the mouth, nose and throat.
2. Cardiovascular System: Hypotension, headache, palpitations, tachycardia, extrasystoles.
3. Hematologic System: Hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, agranulocytosis.
4. Nervous System: Sedation,sleepiness,dizziness,disturbedcoordination, fatigue, confusion, restlessness, excitation, nervousness, tremor, irritability, insomnia, euphoria, paresthesia, blurred vision, diplopia, vertigo, tinnitus, acute labyrinthitis, neuritis, convulsions.
5. GI System: Epigastric distress, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation.
6. GU System: Urinary frequency, difficult urination, urinary retention, early menses.
7. Respiratory System: Thickening of bronchial secretions, tightness of chest or throat and wheezing, nasal stuffiness.

Overdosage

Antihistamine overdosage reactions may vary from central nervous system depression to stimulation. Stimulation is particularly likely in pediatric patients. Atropine-like signs and symptoms, dry mouth; fixed, dilated pupils; flushing and gastrointestinal symptoms may also occur.

If vomiting has not occurred spontaneously, the patient should be induced to vomit. This is best done by having him drink a glass of water or milk after which he should be made to gag. Precaution against aspiration must be taken, especially in infants and children.

If vomiting is unsuccessful, gastric lavage is indicated within 3 hours after ingestion and even later if large amounts of milk or cream were given beforehand. Isotonic or 1/2 isotonic saline is the lavage solution of choice.

Saline cathartics, as milk of magnesia, by osmosis draw water into the bowel and therefore are valuable for their action in rapid dilution of bowel content.

Stimulants should not be used.

Vasopressors may be used to treat hypotension.

Diphenhydramine Dosage and Administration

DOSAGE SHOULD BE INDIVIDUALIZED ACCORDING TO THE NEEDS AND THE RESPONSE OF THE PATIENT.

A single oral dose of Diphenhydramine hydrochloride is quickly absorbed with maximum activity occurring in approximately one hour. The duration of activity following an average dose of Diphenhydramine hydrochloride is from four to six hours.

Adults

25 to 50 mg three or four times daily. The nighttime sleep-aid dosage is 50 mg at bedtime.

Pediatric Patients, other than premature infants and neonates

12.5 to 25 mg three or four times daily. Maximum daily dosage not to exceed 300 mg. For physicians who wish to calculate the dose on the basis of body weight or surface area, the recommended dosage is 5 mg/kg/24 hours or 150 mg/m 2/24 hours.

Data are not available on the use of Diphenhydramine hydrochloride as a nighttime sleep-aid in children under 12 years.

The basis for determining the most effective dosage regimen will be the response of the patient to medication and the condition under treatment.

In motion sickness, full dosage is recommended for prophylactic use, the first dose to be given 30 minutes before exposure to motion and similar doses before meals and upon retiring for the duration of exposure.

STORAGE

Keep tightly closed. Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F). [See USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Protect from freezing and light.

How is Diphenhydramine Supplied

Each 5 mL of Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride Oral Solution USP (purple/red color, cinnamon/anise flavor) contains 12.5 mg Diphenhydramine hydrochloride with 14% alcohol and is supplied in the following oral dosage forms:

NDC 0121-0489-05: 5mL unit dose cup

NDC 0121-0489-00: Case contains 100 unit dose cups of 5mL (0121-0489-05) packaged in 10 trays of 10 unit dose cups each.

NDC 0121-0978-10: 10mL unit dose cup

NDC 0121-0978-00: Case contains 100 unit dose cups of 10mL (0121-0978-10) packaged in 10 trays of 10 unit dose cups each.

Pharmaceutical Associates, Inc.
Greenville, SC 29605

www.paipharma.com

R10/16

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL – 5 mL Unit Dose Cup Label

Delivers 5 mL
NDC 0121-0489-05

Diphenhydramine HCl

ORAL SOLUTION USP

12.5 mg/5 mL

Alcohol 14%
FOR INSTITUTIONAL USE ONLY

Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F).
[See USP Controlled Room Temperature].
Rx ONLY
PHARMACEUTICAL ASSOCIATES, INC.
GREENVILLE, SC 29605
SEE INSERT

A04890500

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL – 10 mL Unit Dose Cup Label

Delivers 10 mL
NDC 0121-0978-10

Diphenhydramine HCl

ORAL SOLUTION USP

25 mg/10 mL

Alcohol 14%
FOR INSTITUTIONAL USE ONLY

Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F).
[See USP Controlled Room Temperature].
Rx ONLY
PHARMACEUTICAL ASSOCIATES, INC.
GREENVILLE, SC 29605
SEE INSERT

A04891001

Diphenhydramine HYDROCHLORIDE Diphenhydramine hydrochloride solution

Product Information Product Type HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG LABEL Item Code (Source) NDC:0121-0489 Route of Administration ORAL DEA Schedule

Active Ingredient/Active Moiety Ingredient Name Basis of Strength Strength Diphenhydramine HYDROCHLORIDE (Diphenhydramine) Diphenhydramine HYDROCHLORIDE 12.5 mg in 5 mL

Inactive Ingredients Ingredient Name Strength ALCOHOL CITRIC ACID MONOHYDRATE D&C RED NO. 33 FD&C RED NO. 40 WATER SODIUM CITRATE SUCROSE

Product Characteristics Color pink Score Shape Size Flavor CINNAMON Imprint Code Contains

Packaging # Item Code Package Description 1 NDC:0121-0489-00 10 TRAY in 1 CASE 1 10 CUP, UNIT-DOSE in 1 TRAY 1 NDC:0121-0489-05 5 mL in 1 CUP, UNIT-DOSE 2 NDC:0121-0489-10 10 TRAY in 1 CASE 2 10 CUP, UNIT-DOSE in 1 TRAY 2 10 mL in 1 CUP, UNIT-DOSE

Marketing Information Marketing Category Application Number or Monograph Citation Marketing Start Date Marketing End Date ANDA ANDA087513 02/10/1982

Diphenhydramine HYDROCHLORIDE Diphenhydramine hydrochloride solution

Product Information Product Type HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG LABEL Item Code (Source) NDC:0121-0978 Route of Administration ORAL DEA Schedule

Active Ingredient/Active Moiety Ingredient Name Basis of Strength Strength Diphenhydramine HYDROCHLORIDE (Diphenhydramine) Diphenhydramine HYDROCHLORIDE 12. 5 mg in 5 mL

Inactive Ingredients Ingredient Name Strength ALCOHOL CITRIC ACID MONOHYDRATE D&C RED NO. 33 FD&C RED NO. 40 WATER SODIUM CITRATE SUCROSE

Product Characteristics Color pink Score Shape Size Flavor CINNAMON Imprint Code Contains

Packaging # Item Code Package Description 1 NDC:0121-0978-00 10 TRAY in 1 CASE 1 10 CUP, UNIT-DOSE in 1 TRAY 1 NDC:0121-0978-10 10 mL in 1 CUP, UNIT-DOSE

Marketing Information Marketing Category Application Number or Monograph Citation Marketing Start Date Marketing End Date ANDA ANDA087513 02/10/1982

Labeler – Pharmaceutical Associates, Inc. (044940096)

Pharmaceutical Associates, Inc.

Frequently asked questions

• How much Benadryl can I take? What is too much?
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• Does diphenhydramine raise blood pressure?
• Does Seroquel help you sleep?
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• Does Benadryl make you sleepy?

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Medical Disclaimer

TikTok challenge will be banned in Russia: all because of a drug

Society kTok. This applies to videos with the hashtag #benadryl. In fact, this inscription is not as harmless as it seems. The authors of the videos urge people to take the drug for allergies in large quantities to cause hallucinations. We talk about the challenge in which you do not need to participate.

Roskomnadzor will block content on the TikTok social network in Russia. This happened after it became known that in the United States, teenagers launched a challenge, the essence of which is to take large doses of an allergy drug called Benadryl to cause hallucinations. Member of the State Duma Committee on Health Boris Mendelevich appealed to the department with a request, if possible, to remove this kind of content from Runet.

Roskomnadzor responded to Mendelevich’s appeal, found 20 TikTok channels where videos of this kind are posted. If the department finds more videos, it will block them as well.

Not only Mendelevich and Roskomnadzor considered the content dangerous, but also Rosmolodezh. “The videos on the above links pose a threat to the life and health of minors,” the organization’s letter says, RIA Novosti reports.

Crazy Challenge

Tiktokers named the challenge #Benadryl. As part of this competition, users drink the allergy medicine Benadryl in large quantities to induce hallucinations. Videos with the hashtag #Benadryl on TikTok gained about 5.5 million views at the end of July, and by the end of August the number of users interested in this topic had increased to six million.

“I see people in my room after taking Benadryl.”

This challenge does have negative consequences. At least three teenagers were sent to the hospital in May. All ended up at the Cook Children’s Medical Center. The doctors of the institution emphasized that Benadryl is a dangerous drug, an overdose of which is dangerous and can even lead to death. This despite the fact that the drug is sold for some reason without a prescription.

“Excessive amounts of diphenhydramine (the active ingredient in Benadryl — ed. note) can cause heart palpitations and arrhythmias, as well as hallucinations and convulsions. In addition, an overdose can cause urinary retention, so treatment may require a urinary catheter,” said Nurse Amber Jevison.

Among the victims of Benadryl was 14-year-old blogger Rebecca. She took 14 tablets of the drug. The girl began to hallucinate, her speech became abrupt, and her pulse rose to 199 beats per minute (against the norm of 65 to 90).

Someone even thought of giving the drug to a dog. And this effect followed after five minutes.

Benadryl has a whole list of side effects due to a substance called diphenhydramine. In addition to a crazy increase in heart rate, the drug causes difficulty urinating, uncontrolled movement of the tongue, swelling of the face, lips, throat, shortness of breath, confusion, dizziness, drowsiness (due to effects on the central nervous system), loss of coordination, dry mouth, stomach upset, dry eyes, blurred vision, hangover feeling. And this is only a part of those negative phenomena that can occur when taking Benadryl.

Authors:

Boris Lomakin

Medicines

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Benadryl for dogs: instructions for use

The temptation to reach into our first aid kits to heal pets can be very dangerous.

People and dogs react differently to medications, so veterinarians warn dog owners against making arbitrary decisions about how to treat their animals.

However, some human medicines are safe for dogs if used properly.

Veterinarians regularly use Benadryl for dogs to treat allergies, travel anxiety and motion sickness. While you should always check with your veterinarian before giving a dog human medication, here’s what you need to know about using Benadryl for dogs.

Contents

What is Benadryl?

Benadryl is the brand name for the active ingredient diphenhydramine HCL. Diphenhydramine is a first-generation ethanolamine-based antihistamine that is a scientific way of classifying antihistamines that can cross the blood-brain barrier from those that cannot.

The ability to cross the blood-brain barrier makes them very effective, but also increases the risk of side effects compared to less effective second-generation antihistamines.

How does Benadryl work?

Diphenhydramine is a receptor antagonist, which means that the drug works by blocking the receptors that receive histamine in the body. It relieves many of the symptoms associated with allergies such as itching, sneezing and hives.

The body still produces histamines, but the receptor antagonist blocks the registration of histamines by the receptors. It’s a bit like a postman trying to deliver mail to an already full mailbox. The letter comes, but there is no place for it.

What does Benadryl treat in dogs?

Benadryl is an excellent remedy for dogs with mild to moderate allergies. Seasonal allergies, food allergies, environmental allergies, and allergic reactions to snake and insect bites are most likely to respond to Benadryl. Benadryl is commonly used to treat itching in dogs caused by skin allergies and also reduces many other allergy symptoms, including:

• Itching
• Urticaria
• Edema and inflammation
• Redness of the skin
• Runny nose and watery eyes
• Cough
• Sneezing
• Anaphylactic reaction

One of the side effects of Benadryl is drowsiness, which helps calm anxious dogs. The Merck Veterinary Manual states that diphenhydramine may relieve symptoms of mild to moderate travel-related anxiety in pets. It may also help relieve motion sickness during car and plane travel.

Veterinarians prescribe Benadryl to dogs with mast cell tumors to help mitigate the effects of massive histamine release caused by mast cell degranulation.

Benadryl is also used as adjunctive therapy for other conditions. Veterinarians sometimes prescribe diphenhydramine during heartworm treatment as it helps prevent allergic reactions associated with heartworm treatment.

Benadryl is a great addition to your pet’s first aid kit. If you don’t already have an emergency kit or pet travel kit, consider building one today.

When to ask your veterinarian about Benadryl for dogs

Before you get to Benadryl, check with your veterinarian about your dog’s symptoms. Allergy symptoms, such as itchy and red eyes, are also signs of more serious conditions.

In some cases, such as glaucoma, taking Benadryl may worsen the dog’s condition. Red, dull eyes can be a sign of an allergy, and can also be a sign of an eye condition such as glaucoma or dry eye, which Benadryl won’t help with.

Similarly, itching is often associated with both allergies and other skin conditions. Because Benadryl is not effective for certain skin conditions, it’s always a good idea to check with your veterinarian to make sure you’re doing the best you can for your dog’s health.

Your veterinarian may recommend that you bring your dog in for a checkup. If you decide not to bring your dog against the advice of a veterinarian, or if you administer Benadryl without consulting a veterinarian first, be sure to monitor your dog closely and call the veterinarian if your pet’s condition worsens.

Side effects of Benadryl

There are side effects associated with the use of Benadryl in dogs that all dog owners should be aware of. Just as people consult their doctors before taking a new medication, you should always check with your veterinarian before administering

Benadryl to see if it has any potential drug interactions with your dog’s other medications. or whether it may worsen a pre-existing condition.

If your dog has one of the following conditions, use Benadryl only after consulting a veterinarian:

• Angle-closure glaucoma
• Severe heart failure
• Prostate hypertrophy
• Bladder neck obstruction 90 078
• Convulsive disorders
• Hypertension
• Allergic lung disease
• Pregnancy

Common side effects associated with the use of Benadryl in dogs include:

• Sedation
• Dry mouth
• Urinary retention
• Hypersalivation
• Increased heart rate
• Rapid breathing

Red Some side effects:

• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Decreased appetite
• Increased appetite

Most side effects occur within the first hour of exposure, so monitor your dog closely during this time.

Benadryl overdose

Possible overdose of Benadryl. Signs of overdose include increased excitability of the central nervous system (CNS) and may be fatal. Other warning signs to look out for:

• Rapid heartbeat
• Constipation
• Seizures

If you suspect your dog has overdosed on Benadryl, contact your veterinarian or veterinary emergency room immediately.

Some dogs develop an allergic reaction to Benadryl. If your dog shows symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek veterinary attention immediately.

Because Benadryl for dogs is often used to treat allergies, monitor your dog after taking Benadryl for the first time to make sure that allergy symptoms do not worsen.

Dosage of Benadryl for Dogs

The best way to determine the correct dosage of Benadryl for dogs is to consult your veterinarian. Merck Veterinary guidelines recommend administering 2-4mg of Benadryl per kilogram of body weight, two to three times per day. However, this dosage may vary depending on your dog’s health condition.

Never use sustained release capsules for dogs as capsules are absorbed differently in dogs than in humans and may affect your dog’s dosage. They can also open when chewed and give too much medication at one time, putting your dog at risk of overdosing.

If you choose to use liquid Benadryl, it is safer to use liquid infant formula as most of them do not contain alcohol (although they do contain sodium).

Benadryl Children’s Tablets can also be used to dose very small dogs. The dosage of liquid Benadryl is different from the dosage of Benadryl tablets. Consult your veterinarian for an appropriate dosage and use a syringe to improve measurement accuracy and ease of administration.

Benadryl usually starts working in 30 minutes, so plan accordingly if you plan to use it to treat anxiety or mild motion sickness.

For dogs with chronic allergies or conditions requiring daily doses, consult your veterinarian for appropriate dosage as this may change over time.

Always consult your veterinarian before giving Benadryl to pregnant or lactating dogs as it is not recommended for use in these animals.