What are the recommended Benadryl dosages for adults and children. How does diphenhydramine work to relieve allergy symptoms. What are the potential side effects and precautions when using Benadryl. When should you consult a doctor before taking diphenhydramine.

Understanding Diphenhydramine: The Active Ingredient in Benadryl

Diphenhydramine, the active ingredient in Benadryl, is a widely used antihistamine that provides relief from various allergy symptoms and common cold discomforts. This medication works by blocking histamine, a natural substance produced by the body during allergic reactions. Additionally, it inhibits acetylcholine, another bodily chemical, which contributes to its drying effects on symptoms like watery eyes and runny nose.

Primary Uses of Diphenhydramine

• Alleviating allergy symptoms
• Treating hay fever
• Relieving common cold symptoms
• Preventing and treating motion sickness
• Aiding in relaxation and sleep

Why is diphenhydramine effective against such a wide range of symptoms? The answer lies in its antihistamine properties. By blocking histamine receptors, it reduces the body’s inflammatory response, which is responsible for many allergy and cold symptoms.

Proper Dosage and Administration of Benadryl

Administering the correct dosage of Benadryl is crucial for its effectiveness and safety. The appropriate dose varies depending on factors such as age, medical condition, and the specific formulation of the product.

Adult Dosage Guidelines

For adults, the typical dose of diphenhydramine ranges from 25 to 50 mg every 4 to 6 hours. How many doses can an adult take in a day? Generally, it’s recommended not to exceed 300 mg in 24 hours. However, always follow the specific instructions on the product package or as directed by your healthcare provider.

Pediatric Dosage Considerations

Determining the correct dosage for children requires special attention. Is Benadryl safe for all children? The FDA advises against using cough and cold products, including Benadryl, in children under 6 years old unless specifically directed by a doctor. For children between 6 and 12 years, dosage should be carefully calculated based on weight and under medical supervision.

Dosage Forms and Administration Methods

1. Tablets or capsules: Taken orally with or without food
2. Liquid form: Measured using a special device, not a household spoon
3. Rapidly-dissolving tablets or strips: Allowed to dissolve on the tongue
4. Chewable tablets: Thoroughly chewed before swallowing

When should you take Benadryl for optimal effect? For motion sickness prevention, take the dose 30 minutes before travel. If using it as a sleep aid, take it about 30 minutes before bedtime.

Side Effects and Precautions When Using Benadryl

While Benadryl is generally safe when used as directed, it can cause various side effects. Understanding these potential reactions is essential for safe usage.

Common Side Effects

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Constipation
• Stomach upset
• Blurred vision
• Dry mouth, nose, or throat

How can you manage these side effects? For dry mouth, sucking on sugar-free hard candy, chewing sugar-free gum, or using a saliva substitute can provide relief. If side effects persist or worsen, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider.

Serious Side Effects Requiring Medical Attention

While rare, some users may experience more severe reactions. When should you seek immediate medical help? If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor right away:

• Mental or mood changes (restlessness, confusion)
• Difficulty urinating
• Fast or irregular heartbeat
• Seizures
• Signs of a serious allergic reaction (rash, itching/swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing)

Interactions and Contraindications of Diphenhydramine

Diphenhydramine can interact with various substances and medications, potentially altering its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.

Drug Interactions to Watch For

• Other antihistamines
• Alcohol
• Certain antidepressants
• Medications for Parkinson’s disease
• Some antispasmodics and anti-nausea drugs

Why is it crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you’re taking? Combining diphenhydramine with certain drugs can lead to increased drowsiness, impaired cognitive function, or other adverse effects. Your doctor can help determine if Benadryl is safe for you to use alongside your current medications.

Conditions That May Contraindicate Benadryl Use

Certain medical conditions may make the use of diphenhydramine unsafe or require special precautions. These include:

• Glaucoma
• Enlarged prostate
• Urinary retention
• Asthma
• Liver or kidney disease

How do these conditions affect the safety of Benadryl usage? For instance, diphenhydramine can worsen symptoms of glaucoma by increasing intraocular pressure. In individuals with enlarged prostates, it may exacerbate urinary retention. Always consult with your healthcare provider if you have any underlying medical conditions before using Benadryl.

Special Considerations for Benadryl Use in Specific Populations

Certain groups of people may need to take extra precautions when using Benadryl or may need to avoid it altogether.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Is Benadryl safe during pregnancy or while breastfeeding? Limited studies suggest that diphenhydramine is generally safe during pregnancy, but it’s always best to consult with your obstetrician before use. For breastfeeding mothers, be aware that the drug can pass into breast milk and may affect your baby. Your pediatrician can provide guidance on whether it’s safe to use while nursing.

Elderly Population

Older adults may be more sensitive to the effects of diphenhydramine, particularly its sedating properties. Why should seniors be extra cautious when using Benadryl? The medication can increase the risk of falls and may interact with other medications commonly taken by older adults. Lower doses may be recommended for this population.

Individuals with Chronic Conditions

People with chronic health conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes should consult their healthcare provider before using Benadryl. How might these conditions impact the safety of diphenhydramine use? The medication can potentially exacerbate certain symptoms or interact with treatments for these conditions.

Alternative Treatments and Complementary Approaches

While Benadryl can be effective for many individuals, some may prefer to explore alternative options for managing allergy symptoms or occasional sleeplessness.

Natural Antihistamines

• Quercetin: Found in apples, onions, and citrus fruits
• Bromelain: An enzyme found in pineapple
• Vitamin C: Known for its antihistamine properties
• Butterbur: An herb that may help with allergic rhinitis

Can these natural alternatives be as effective as Benadryl? While some people find relief with these options, their effectiveness can vary, and they may not be suitable for everyone. Always consult with a healthcare provider before trying new supplements.

Non-Medicinal Approaches for Symptom Relief

For those seeking to minimize medication use, several non-pharmacological methods can help manage allergy symptoms:

• Nasal irrigation with saline solution
• Using a humidifier to moisten air
• Avoiding known allergens
• Wearing a mask when outdoors during high pollen days
• Keeping windows closed during high allergen periods

How can these methods complement or potentially replace Benadryl use? By reducing exposure to allergens and managing symptoms through natural means, some individuals may be able to decrease their reliance on antihistamines like Benadryl.

Long-Term Considerations and Potential Risks of Regular Benadryl Use

While Benadryl can be an effective short-term solution for allergy symptoms and occasional sleeplessness, regular long-term use may pose certain risks.

Tolerance and Dependence

Can your body become tolerant to Benadryl over time? Some studies suggest that regular use of diphenhydramine as a sleep aid can lead to tolerance, where higher doses are needed to achieve the same effect. This can potentially lead to dependence, making it difficult to sleep without the medication.

Cognitive Effects in Long-Term Use

Recent research has raised concerns about the long-term cognitive effects of regular anticholinergic use, including diphenhydramine. What are the potential risks associated with prolonged Benadryl use? Some studies have suggested a possible link between long-term use of these medications and an increased risk of dementia, particularly in older adults. However, more research is needed to fully understand this relationship.

Alternatives for Chronic Symptom Management

For individuals dealing with chronic allergies or sleep issues, what are some alternatives to regular Benadryl use? Consider discussing the following options with your healthcare provider:

• Second-generation antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine, loratadine) for long-term allergy management
• Nasal corticosteroids for chronic nasal allergy symptoms
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) as a non-pharmacological approach to sleep problems
• Melatonin supplements for occasional sleep aid

By exploring these alternatives, individuals may find more suitable long-term solutions for managing their symptoms without the potential risks associated with prolonged diphenhydramine use.

Benadryl Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

Uses

Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine used to relieve symptoms of allergy, hay fever, and the common cold. These symptoms include rash, itching, watery eyes, itchy eyes/nose/throat, cough, runny nose, and sneezing. It is also used to prevent and treat nausea, vomiting and dizziness caused by motion sickness. Diphenhydramine can also be used to help you relax and fall asleep.This medication works by blocking a certain natural substance (histamine) that your body makes during an allergic reaction. Its drying effects on such symptoms as watery eyes and runny nose are caused by blocking another natural substance made by your body (acetylcholine).Cough-and-cold products have not been shown to be safe or effective in children younger than 6 years. Do not use this product to treat cold symptoms in children younger than 6 years unless specifically directed by the doctor. Some products (such as long-acting tablets/capsules) are not recommended for use in children younger than 12 years. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details about using your product safely.These products do not cure or shorten the length of the common cold and may cause serious side effects. To decrease the risk for serious side effects, carefully follow all dosage directions. Do not use this product to make a child sleepy. Do not give other cough-and-cold medication that might contain the same or similar ingredients (see also Drug Interactions section). Ask the doctor or pharmacist about other ways to relieve cough and cold symptoms (such as drinking enough fluids, using a humidifier or saline nose drops/spray).

How to use Benadryl

Follow all directions on the product package. If your doctor has prescribed this medication, take it as directed. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take the tablet, capsule, or liquid form by mouth with or without food. Measure liquid forms of this medication using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. If you have a single-dose form of this medication (such as a single-use whistle), you do not need to measure the dose.

The rapidly-dissolving tablet or strip should be allowed to dissolve on the tongue and then swallowed, with or without water. The chewable tablets should be chewed thoroughly before being swallowed.

The dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. There are many brands and forms of diphenhydramine available. Read the dosing instructions carefully for each product because the amount of diphenhydramine may be different between products. Do not increase your dose or take this medication more often than directed.

To prevent motion sickness, take your dose 30 minutes before starting activity such as travel. To help you sleep, take your dose about 30 minutes before bedtime. If you continue to have difficulty sleeping for longer than 2 weeks, contact your doctor.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.

Side Effects

Drowsiness, dizziness, constipation, stomach upset, blurred vision, or dry mouth/nose/throat may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

To relieve dry mouth, suck (sugarless) hard candy or ice chips, chew (sugarless) gum, drink water, or use a saliva substitute.

If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: mental/mood changes (such as restlessness, confusion), difficulty urinating, fast/irregular heartbeat.

Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including: seizures.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

Before taking diphenhydramine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to dimenhydrinate; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: breathing problems (such as asthma, emphysema), high pressure in the eye (glaucoma), heart problems, high blood pressure, liver disease, seizures, stomach/intestine problems (such as ulcers, blockage), overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), difficulty urinating (for example, due to enlarged prostate).

This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy or blur your vision. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness or clear vision until you can do it safely. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

Liquid products, chewable tablets, or dissolving tablets/strips may contain sugar and/or aspartame. Liquid products may also contain alcohol. Caution is advised if you have diabetes, liver disease, phenylketonuria (PKU), or any other condition that requires you to limit/avoid these substances in your diet. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about using this product safely.

Children may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug. This drug can often cause excitement in young children instead of drowsiness.

Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, constipation, or trouble urinating. Drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion can increase the risk of falling.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

This drug passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

Some products that may interact with this drug include: antihistamines applied to the skin (such as diphenhydramine cream, ointment, spray).

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking other products that cause drowsiness such as opioid pain or cough relievers (such as codeine, hydrocodone), alcohol, marijuana (cannabis), drugs for sleep or anxiety (such as alprazolam, lorazepam, zolpidem), muscle relaxants (such as carisoprodol, cyclobenzaprine), or other antihistamines (such as cetirizine, chlorpheniramine).

Check the labels on all your medicines (such as allergy or cough-and-cold products) because they may contain ingredients that cause drowsiness. Ask your pharmacist about using those products safely.

This medication may interfere with certain laboratory tests (including allergy skin test), possibly causing false test results. Make sure laboratory personnel and all your doctors know you use this drug.

Does Benadryl interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: severe drowsiness, seizures, widened pupils. In children, mental/mood changes (such as restlessness, irritability, hallucinations) may occur before drowsiness.

Keep all medical and lab appointments.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of your next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Do not freeze liquid forms of this medication. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

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This medicine is a light yellow, oblong, translucent, capsule imprinted with “Benadryl”.

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CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

Medications That Should Never Be Combined with Benadryl

Written by
Juhi Modi

Medically reviewed by
HaVy Ngo-Hamilton, Pharm.D.
| Jan 13, 2023

Benadryl is the brand name of the generic medication diphenhydramine. This common over-the-counter antihistamine is one of the staple products of many households’ medicine cabinets. Benadryl is commonly used to treat hay fever, seasonal allergies, year-round allergies, the common cold, minor throat irritation, motion sickness, and insomnia. 

Benadryl is very effective in relieving sneezing, runny nose, and itchy, watery eyes. However, taking Benadryl with certain other medications can result in potentially dangerous drug interactions. 

Even though this article talks about Benadryl, a medicine cabinet essential, this information focuses on interactions to watch out for. Please keep in mind that this list is not all-inclusive since these interactions occur with very commonly-used drugs.

What is Benadryl?

Benadryl is a widely available over-the-counter antihistamine that contains the generic medication diphenhydramine. You can get this medication in the following dosage forms:

• Diphenhydramine hydrochloride tablet
• Diphenhydramine hydrochloride capsule
• Diphenhydramine hydrochloride liquid-filled capsule
• Diphenhydramine hydrochloride solution

Generic diphenhydramine is available under brand names such as Benadryl, Childrens Benadryl Allergy, Aler-Dryl, Diphenhist, Nytol, Pediacare Children’s Allergy, Benadryl Allergy Ultratab, Childrens Benadryl Chewables tablets, and Siladryl.  

Diphenhydramine is also present in many combination medications such as Advil PM (ibuprofen / diphenhydramine), Aleve PM (naproxen / diphenhydramine), Motrin PM (ibuprofen / diphenhydramine), and others. Benadryl Itch Relief contains diphenhydramine in different dosage forms, such as zinc acetate solution, zinc acetate cream, or zinc acetate spray, to relieve skin symptoms related to allergic reactions. 

What are Benadryl interactions?

Taking Benadryl with certain other drugs can lead to possible interactions. This can increase the risk of side effects, some of which can be mild and go away naturally, though there is also the possibility of serious adverse effects and health complications. That’s why it’s important to tell your doctor or healthcare professional about all medications and health conditions, such as high blood pressure, before starting treatment. If there are known interactions between Benadryl and your other medications, a licensed healthcare professional can give you another treatment option for your medical conditions.

Which Medications Does Benadryl Interact With?  

The following medications or substances, including others not listed, can have drug interactions with Benadryl. If you have other medical conditions and are taking medications for them, or even if you only take OTC products like a multivitamin or supplements, you should ask your pharmacist or healthcare professional if Benedryl is right for you when:

• It is the first time you plan to take Benadryl
• You have been taking Benadryl and are prescribed a new medication.

Doing this would prevent possible side effects and ensure that this new drug combination does not cause harm if you have other underlying conditions. Also, it is good to keep in mind that for any given drug, different people may react differently, so promptly getting medical care is necessary when you experience severe side effects, such as an allergic reaction.

Remember that some medications can interact with certain foods and even lab tests. People can interact differently based on factors like age and underlying health status. Below are the common interactions to watch out for.

Alcohol

Alcohol alone is a CNS depressant; taken together with Benadryl, it can increase the sedating effect of Benadryl, thus worsening drowsiness. So if you drink alcohol while taking Benadryl, you will feel extremely sleepy. Drinking alcohol while on Benadryl can also lead to other side effects like dizziness, confusion, and slowed breathing rate. These effects can impair your alertness and ability to focus, putting you at risk of accidents.

Blood pressure medications

There is no known drug interaction between Benadryl and medications prescribed for high blood pressure. However, Benadryl can increase the side effects of metoprolol succinate (Toprol XL) and metoprolol tartrate (Lopressor), which can lead to low blood pressure, dizziness, and slow heart rate.

As mentioned above, Benadryl is an ingredient of many OTC cough and cold products. Benadryl doesn’t raise blood pressure by itself. These products contain decongestants such as pseudoephedrine that can increase blood pressure.

Other antihistamines

Taking Benadryl along with other antihistamines can increase the risk of side effects. This includes drugs like meclizine (Antivert), loratadine (Claritin), cetirizine (Zyrtec), hydroxyzine (Vistaril), and promethazine (Promethegan). Also, taking other diphenhydramine-containing products can lead to more severe side effects like dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, and inability to concentrate.

Antidepressants

Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), an older antidepressant class, and trazodone (Desyrel) have sedating effects.  Drug interactions between Benadryl and these specific antidepressants can increase the risk of side effects like drowsiness and reduced alertness. 

Sleeping medicines

Taking Benadryl with sedative-hypnotics (sleep aids) like eszopiclone (Lunesta), zolpidem (Ambien), or suvorexant (Belsomra) can increase the risk of side effects like extreme drowsiness, confusion, and difficulty concentrating. Prescription sleep medications and OTC sleep aids, such as melatonin and Unisom, should not be combined with Benadryl. An interesting fact to keep in mind is that, except for melatonin, the active ingredients in most OTC sleeping pills are antihistamines like Benadryl. 

Bowel disease medications

Certain medications used to treat bowel diseases, such as irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D), can cause constipation as a side effect. In some rare cases, Benadryl can interact with these medications for IBS-D and worsen constipation. However, this is rare and only happens if you take high doses of Benadryl regularly over a long period.

Seizure medications

Certain medications used to treat seizures, such as zonisamide (Zonegran), can lead to increased body temperature and decreased sweating. Though not common, Benadryl interactions can worsen these side effects and may lead to heat stroke. Your healthcare professional will tell you to exercise caution, especially during vigorous exercise in warm weather, if you are on this combination of drugs.

Cannabis products

The use of cannabis and Benadryl together can lead to side effects like dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, and difficulty concentrating. These effects may be especially severe in elderly individuals who may also experience impaired judgment and coordination.

Wrapping up

In addition to drug interactions with the medicines listed above, other drugs may also interact with Benadryl. If you take medications for certain medical conditions, give your healthcare professional a complete list of your other drugs. Your doctor or pharmacist will make sure that all your medications are appropriate and that no known drug interactions exist. If Benadryl is not an appropriate option, your care team can discuss other alternative therapy that is safe and effective for you. 
 

References:

1. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682539.html
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK526010/
3. https://www. pdr.net/drug-summary/Diphenhydramine-Hydrochloride-diphenhydramine-hydrochloride-1140.941
4. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/BF00625799
5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10824625/
6. https://meridian.allenpress.com/mhc/article/4/3/118/37078/An-overview-of-clinically-significant-drug

How long after Xyzal can I take Benadryl (and why)? –

Last updated: December 2, 2022 / author
Sandeep Bhandari

/ Fact verified / 4 minutes

Exact answer: 24 hours

Both Xyzal and Benadryl are used to treat people with symptoms of any type of allergy. Xyzal and Benadryl are brand names for the drugs Levocetirizine and Diphenhydramine, respectively. The difference between both drugs is that Xyzal is a second generation antihistamine and Benadryl is a first generation antihistamine. This is why the side effect of sedation is higher with Benadryl compared to Xyzal. But taking Xyzal also causes some drowsiness. Both of these antihistamines are taken by mouth with or without food. But is it possible to take both of these drugs? If so, how long after taking Xyzal can I take Benadryl?

Health

Test your knowledge on health-related topics

1 / 10

What is the main function of the lymphatic system in the body?

To regulate blood pressure

To fight infections

To transport nutrients

To remove waste products

2 / 10

What is the best way to improve sleep quality?

Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule

Regular exercise

Avoiding caffeine before bed

All of the above

3 / 10

What is the best way to prevent the onset of depression?

Exercise regularly

Eat a healthy diet

Get enough sleep

All of the above

4 / 10

What is the recommended daily intake of fiber for an adult?

10 grams

20 grams

30 grams

40 grams

5 / 10

Which vitamin helps strengthen bones and teeth?

Vitamin A

Vitamin C

Vitamin D supplements

Vitamin E

6 / 10

What is the main cause of the common cold?

Bacteria

virus

Allergies

None of the above

7 / 10

What is the leading cause of death worldwide?

cancer

Heart disease

stroke

Traffic accidents

8 / 10

What is the part of the eye where the image is formed?

Cornea

Lens

Optic Nerves

Brain

9 / 10

Which of the following is NOT a symptom of a cold?

Sore throat

Runny nose

Indigestion

Cough

10 / 10

What is the main cause of cardiovascular disease?

Lack of exercise

Genetics

Poor nutrition

Stress

your score

Totals

1

900 04 How long can I take Benadryl after Xyzal?

Xyzal (also known as levocetirizine) is prescribed to treat allergy symptoms such as sneezing, watery eyes or itchy eyes and nose. Xyzal is sold either in tablet or liquid form, and the dosage of this medicine depends on the age and health of the person. In most cases, you are told to use this medicine only once a day. A common side effect of taking Xyzal that you will experience is drowsiness.

On the other hand, Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is known to treat the symptoms of hay fever (allergic rhinitis) and the common cold. Benadryl is also sold in tablet or liquid form. You will be asked to take this medication 30 minutes before bed or, if you are traveling, 30 minutes before your trip. This is due to the fact that the use of Benadryl causes a strong sedative.

When you take Xyzal, the effect lasts about 24 hours, while with Benadryl, the effect lasts almost 4 to 6 hours. But doctors never prescribe both of these medicines, as you should never take both of these medicines at the same time. Consuming both of these drugs at the same time can lead to various side effects. However, if you want to take both of these medicines, you should only use them when one of the medicines wears off. If you take Xyzal first and then Benadryl, you must wait until the effects of Xyzal wear off. Since the effects of Xyzal last for 24 hours, you can only consume Benadryl 24 hours after taking Xyzal.

Why can I take Benadryl for so long after Xyzal?

In most cases, Xyzal 5 mg tablets are prescribed, and for minor symptoms, 2.5 mg tablets also help. When you take Xyzal, you begin to experience its effects within 1 hour. Some side effects you are likely to experience include drowsiness and fatigue. Children may also have fever and cough.

When you are prescribed Benadryl, the usual dose is 25 mg to 50 mg, depending on the severity of your symptoms. It takes no more than 20-30 minutes for Benadryl to start working. Strong sedation is one of the main side effects of Benadryl. Other side effects of Benadryl include dizziness, constipation, and blurred vision.

Once an allergic reaction happens, your body starts to produce a natural substance called histamine. The antihistamines Xyzal and Benadryl stop the effects of these substances and provide relief. But even though it relieves these symptoms, both are not intended to treat or prevent serious allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis.

Therefore, since both of these drugs are prescribed to treat similar symptoms, it is not recommended to take both of them at the same time. As mentioned earlier, you must wait until the effect of one of the drugs wears off, and only then can you take another. This is due to the side effects that these medications exhibit. When you consume both of these together, there is a risk of additional side effects of antihistamines, which include dry mouth and eyes, severe drowsiness, and constipation. Therefore, if you are taking Xyzal first, you must wait 24 hours and then take Benadryl.

Conclusion

Taking Xyzal and Benadryl at the same time is rarely prescribed because they do not give you any additional benefit. But when you are taking both of them, it is absolutely necessary to take precautions and avoid an additive antihistamine effect. It was previously mentioned that Benadryl should only be taken after Xyzal’s effects wear off. But when you first take Benadryl, you must also wait until its effects wear off (i.e. 4-6 hours). However, since the effects of Benadryl wear off faster compared to Xyzal, it is recommended that you take Benadryl first.

Recommendations

1. https://link.springer.com/article/10.2165/00003495-200666070-00017
2. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S 1472029911000853

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This document, provided by Lexicomp ^® , contains all the information you need to know about this medicine, including indications, directions for use, side effects, and when your healthcare provider should be contacted.

Trade names: USA

Aler-Dryl [OTC] [DSC]; Allergy Childrens [OTC]; Allergy Relief Childrens [OTC]; Allergy Relief [OTC]; Anti-Hist Allergy [OTC]; Aurodryl Allergy Childrens [OTC] [DSC]; Banophen [OTC]; Benadryl Allergy Childrens [OTC]; Benadryl Allergy Extra Str [OTC]; Benadryl Allergy Ultratabs [OTC]; Benadryl Allergy [OTC]; Complete Allergy Relief [OTC]; Di-Phen [DSC]; Diphen[DSC]; Diphen[OTC]; Diphenhist [OTC] [DSC]; Geri-Dryl [OTC]; GoodSense Sleep Aid [OTC]; M-Dryl [OTC]; Naramin [OTC]; Nighttime Sleep Aid [OTC]; Nytol Maximum Strength [OTC] [DSC]; Nytol [OTC] [DSC]; Ormir [OTC] [DSC]; PediaCare Children’s Allergy [OTC]; Pharbedryl [OTC]; Siladryl Allergy [OTC]; Simply Sleep [OTC]; Sleep Tabs [OTC] Total Allergy Medicine [OTC]; Total Allergy [OTC]; Vanamine PD [OTC] [DSC]; ZzzQuil [OTC]

Brand names: Canada

Diphenist

What is this drug used for?

• Used to relieve cough.
• It is used to relieve the symptoms of allergies.
• It is used for motion sickness.
• It is used to treat symptoms such as Parkinson’s disease caused by other health problems.
• It is used to treat sleep disorders.

What should I tell my doctor BEFORE taking this drug?

• If you have an allergy to this drug, any of its ingredients, other drugs, foods or substances. Tell your doctor about your allergies and how they have manifested.
• If the patient is a premature baby or newborn. Do not give this form of drug to a premature or newborn baby.

This list of drugs and conditions that may interact with this drug is not exhaustive.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all medicines you take (prescription and over-the-counter, natural products and vitamins) and any health problems you have. You need to make sure that this drug is safe for your conditions and in combination with other drugs you are already taking. Do not start or stop taking any drug or change the dosage without your doctor’s advice.

What do I need to know or do while taking this drug?

All forms:

• Tell all your health care workers that you are taking this drug. These are doctors, nurses, pharmacists and dentists.
• Do not take the drug in higher doses than prescribed by your doctor. Taking more than the prescribed amount of the drug increases the risk of serious side effects.
• Do not take this drug for longer than the length of time your doctor has prescribed.
• Avoid driving and other activities that require increased attention until you see how this drug affects you.
• Do not use with other products containing diphenhydramine.
• Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this drug.
• Check with your doctor before using marijuana, other forms of cannabis, or prescription or over-the-counter drugs that can slow you down.
• If you are 60 years of age or older, take this drug with caution. You may experience more side effects.
• If the patient is a child, use this drug with caution. Children may have a higher risk of some side effects.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The benefits and risks for you and your child will need to be discussed.

Sleep disorders drugs:

• This drug is not intended for use in children under 12 years of age. However, your doctor may decide that the benefits of this drug outweigh the risks. If your child has received this drug, ask your doctor about the benefits and risks. If you have any questions about how to give this drug to a child, talk with your doctor.

All other dosage forms:

• Different brands of this drug may be for use in children of different ages. Talk to your doctor before giving this drug to a child.
• Do not use for sleep disorders in children. Consult your doctor.

What side effects should I report to my doctor immediately?

WARNING. In rare cases, this drug can cause serious and sometimes deadly side effects in some patients. Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that could be associated with serious side effects:

• Signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, hives, itching, red and swollen skin with blisters or peeling, possibly in combination with fever, wheezing or wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, difficulty breathing, swallowing or speaking, unusual hoarseness, swelling in the mouth, face, lips, tongue or throat.
• Severe dizziness or fainting.
• Balance change.
• Decreased attention.

What are some other side effects of this drug?

Any medicine can have side effects. However, for many people, side effects are either minor or non-existent. Contact your doctor or seek medical attention if these or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:

• Feeling dizzy or sleepy.
• Thickening of the mucous membrane of the nose or throat.
• Nervous tension and agitation.
• Nausea or vomiting.

This list of possible side effects is not exhaustive. If you have any questions about side effects, please contact your doctor. Talk to your doctor about side effects.

You can report side effects to the National Health Board.

You can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You can also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

What is the best way to take this drug?

Use this drug as directed by your doctor. Read all the information provided to you. Strictly follow all instructions.

All oral preparations:

• Take with or without food. Take with food if medicine causes nausea.

Sleep disorders:

• Take this drug at bedtime.

Chewable and oral disintegrating tablets:

• Should be thoroughly chewed or allowed to dissolve in the mouth.
• If you have phenylketonuria, talk to your doctor. Some foods contain phenylalanine.

Chewables.

• Place the oral strip on your tongue and let it dissolve.

All liquid formulations:

• Liquid doses should be measured with caution. Use the dispenser that comes with the medicine. If the dispenser is not provided in the package, ask the pharmacist for a dosing agent for this drug.
• If you have phenylketonuria, talk to your doctor. Some foods contain phenylalanine.

Liquid (suspension):

• Shake well before use.

Injection:

• For intramuscular or intravenous injections.
• This drug can cause tissue damage when injected into the skin or into fatty tissue under the skin. Consult your doctor.

What should I do if I miss a dose of a drug?

Preparations for the treatment of sleep disorders:

• This drug should be taken as needed. Do not take the drug more often than prescribed by your doctor.

All other oral preparations:

• If you take the drug regularly, take the missed dose as soon as you can.
• If it’s time for your next dose, don’t take the missed dose and then go back to your regular dosing schedule.
• Do not take 2 doses or an additional dose at the same time.
• In most cases, this drug is used as needed. Do not take the drug more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Injection:

• See your doctor for further instructions.

How do I store and/or discard this drug?

All oral preparations:

• Store at room temperature, protected from light. Store in a dry place. Do not store in the bathroom.

All liquid formulations:

• Don’t freeze.

Liquid (suspension):

• Throw away any unused servings after 8 weeks.

Injection:

• If you need to store this drug at home, check with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist for storage conditions.

All forms:

• Keep all medicines in a safe place. Keep all medicines out of the reach of children and pets.
• Dispose of unused or expired drugs. Do not empty into a toilet or sewer unless instructed to do so. If you have any questions about disposing of medicines, ask your pharmacist. Drug disposal programs may be in place in your area.

General information about drugs

• If your health does not improve or even worsens, see your doctor.
• Do not give your medicine to anyone and do not take other people’s medicines.
• Some medicines may come with other patient information leaflets. If you have questions about this drug, talk with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other health care professional.
• Some medicines may come with other patient information leaflets. Check with your pharmacist. If you have questions about this drug, talk with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other health care professional.
• If you think you have overdosed, call a poison control center or get medical help right away. Be prepared to tell or show what drug you took, how much, and when it happened.

Consumer Use of Information and Limitation of Liability

This summary information includes a summary of the diagnosis, treatment, and/or drug product. It is not intended to be a comprehensive source of data and should be used as a tool to help the user understand and/or evaluate potential diagnostic and treatment options. It does NOT include all information about conditions, treatments, medications, side effects, or risks that may apply to a particular patient. It should not be considered medical advice or a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment provided by a physician based on a medical examination and assessment of the patient’s specific and unique circumstances. Patients should consult with their physician for full information about their health, medical issues, and treatment options, including any risks or benefits regarding the use of medications.