Dosage, side effects, uses, and more

Overdose warning

Although online challenges may encourage it, it is not safe to take more than the recommended dosage of Benadryl. Doing so can lead to overdose and severe symptoms, including abnormal heart rhythms, hallucinations, seizures, and even death in rare cases. If you or someone you know may have taken too much Benadryl and is experiencing serious symptoms, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.

Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is a brand-name, over-the-counter medication that’s classified as an antihistamine. It’s used to help relieve symptoms of hay fever (seasonal allergies), other allergies, and the common cold, as well as itchy skin due to insect bites, hives, and other causes.

Benadryl is effective for decreasing itchy skin from hives. It’s often considered a first-choice treatment for hives. But although it’s effective for decreasing symptoms of seasonal allergies, Benadryl isn’t often used for this purpose. This is due to side effects such as sleepiness.

Benadryl comes in many different forms. Some are oral (taken by mouth), and some are topical (applied to the skin). Examples include:

• oral tablets
• oral liquid-filled capsules (liqui-gels)
• oral chewable tablets
• oral liquid solution
• topical cream
• topical gel
• topical spray
• topical stick

Benadryl is available in generic forms, which are often store-brand products. The generic name of Benadryl is diphenhydramine.

There are many different Benadryl-branded products. Some of these products contain just one ingredient, while others contain two ingredients.

Examples of different Benadryl products and their ingredients include:

• Benadryl Allergy. This product contains one active ingredient, diphenhydramine, which is an antihistamine.
• Benadryl Allergy Plus Congestion. This product contains two active ingredients:
• diphenhydramine, an antihistamine
• phenylephrine, a decongestant
• Benadryl Itch Stopping Cream. This product contains two active ingredients:
• diphenhydramine, an antihistamine
• zinc, a skin protectant
• Benadryl Itch Cooling Gel. This product doesn’t contain the usual antihistamine, diphenhydramine. It only contains camphor, which is a type of pain reliever that’s applied to the skin.

When people say the name “Benadryl,” they usually mean the products that contain diphenhydramine. Because ingredients vary from one Benadryl product another, be sure to read the label closely before buying or using a Benadryl product. That way you’ll know what ingredients it contains.

If you’re not sure which product is right for you, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Your Benadryl dosage will depend on several factors. These include:

• the type of condition you’re using Benadryl to treat
• your age
• the form of Benadryl you’re taking

Typically, you should use the smallest dosage that provides the desired effect.

The following information describes dosages that are commonly used or recommended. If you’re unsure what dosage to take, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Dosage for hay fever or allergies

• Typical dosage for adults: 25 to 50 mg, every 4 to 6 hours.

Dosage for symptoms of the common cold (such as runny nose or sneezing)

• Typical dosage for adults: 25 to 50 mg, every 4 to 6 hours.

Dosage for pain and itchy skin from hives, insect bites, and other causes

• Typical dosage for adults: An application of Benadryl cream, gel, or spray to the affected area up to 3 to 4 times daily.

Children’s dosage

• For hay fever or allergies:
• Children ages 12 years and older: 25 to 50 mg, every 4 to 6 hours.
• Children 6 to 11 years: 12.5 to 25 mg, every 4 to 6 hours.
• Children under 6 years: Use only under the direction of a doctor.
• For symptoms of the common cold (such as runny nose or sneezing):
• Children ages 12 years and older: 25 to 50 mg, every 4 to 6 hours.
• Children 6 to 11 years: 12.5 to 25 mg, every 4 to 6 hours.
• Children under 6 years: Use only under the direction of a doctor.
• For pain and itchy skin from hives, insect bites, and other causes:
• Children ages 2 years and older: An application of Benadryl cream, gel, or spray to the affected area up to 3 to 4 times daily.
• Children under 2 years: Use only under the direction of a doctor.

Dosage for babies

Over-the-counter oral Benadryl products aren’t approved for use in children under 6 years. Benadryl products that are applied to the skin aren’t approved for use in children under 2 years.

Before giving Benadryl to a baby, talk with your doctor. Your doctor may want to evaluate your baby’s symptoms. Your doctor can also recommend the most appropriate dosage of Benadryl if treatment with the drug is needed. (See warning below in “Benadryl side effects” section.)

Maximum dosage

Oral Benadryl products shouldn’t be taken more than 6 times each day. For adults and children over 12 years of age, the maximum is 300 mg each day. For children ages 6 to 12 years, the maximum is 150 mg each day.

For adults or children, Benadryl products such as the cream, gel, and spray shouldn’t be applied to the skin more than 4 times per day.

Tolerance

Your body can develop a tolerance to some of the effects of Benadryl. This means your body’s response to the drug may decrease over time.

For instance, one study found that Benadryl caused sleepiness on the first day it was taken. But after the person took Benadryl for four days, this side effect no longer occurred. This was due to tolerance.

Although tolerance to sleepiness caused by Benadryl can happen, tolerance doesn’t seem to occur with other effects of Benadryl. For instance, it doesn’t seem to affect the drug’s effectiveness. When used over time, Benadryl continues to work to relieve symptoms of hay fever or allergies, runny nose, hives, and other conditions.

However, if you’re taking Benadryl frequently (on more than about four days per week), talk with your doctor. They may suggest other treatment options that may be more effective for you.

Benadryl can cause mild or serious side effects. The following list contains some of the key side effects that may occur while taking Benadryl. This list doesn’t include all possible side effects.

For more information on the possible side effects of Benadryl or tips on how to deal with a troubling side effect, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

More common side effects

The more common side effects of Benadryl include:

• sleepiness
• dry mouth
• weakness
• dizziness
• headache

Some of these side effects may go away within a few days or a couple of weeks. If they’re more severe or don’t go away, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

Serious side effects

Call your doctor right away if you have serious side effects. Call 911 if your symptoms feel life-threatening or if you think you’re having a medical emergency. Serious side effects and their symptoms can include the following:

• decreased memory
• impaired thinking
• dementia
• confusion
• fast heartbeat
• seizures

Long-term side effects

Over-the-counter Benadryl is approved for temporary or short-term use and isn’t intended for long-term use. There is very little scientific research about the long-term effects of Benadryl.

Some side effects that may occur with long-term use include:

• constipation
• blurred vision
• memory problems and dementia (especially in seniors)
• anxiety
• dependence

Talk to your doctor about how often you have allergy symptoms. If you have symptoms frequently (more often than about four days per week), there may be a safer, more effective medication for you than Benadryl.

Dementia

Benadryl and some other antihistamine drugs can sometimes cause decreased memory, confusion, and trouble thinking. These side effects are more common in seniors.

In addition, taking Benadryl long term might increase the risk of dementia such as Alzheimer’s disease, especially in seniors. In one study, people over the age of 65 years who took medications such as Benadryl daily for three years or longer had an increased risk of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.

To prevent this possible side effect, Benadryl should be used in the lowest effective dose for the shortest time possible. If you need to take an antihistamine long term, talk with your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

Hallucinations

Hallucinations aren’t a typical side effect of Benadryl. However, they can occur in people who take very high doses of Benadryl. If you experience hallucinations while taking Benadryl, don’t take any more of the medication. If you think you need medical treatment, call your doctor or 911.

Restless legs syndrome

Some antihistamines, including Benadryl, can worsen symptoms of restless legs syndrome. If you have restless legs syndrome, talk with your doctor or pharmacist about other medication options.

Depression

Depression isn’t a side effect that typically happens in people who take Benadryl.

If you have symptoms of depression while taking Benadryl, talk with your doctor. Your doctor may want to evaluate your symptoms. They may also recommend different medication options.

Weight gain

Weight gain can happen in some people who take diphenhydramine. If you have weight gain while taking Benadryl, talk with your doctor or pharmacist about other medication options.

Constipation

Benadryl can cause constipation, especially when used regularly. If you have constipation, talk with your doctor or pharmacist about other medication options instead of Benadryl.

Driving warning

Because it can make you very sleepy, Benadryl can impair your ability to drive. If you feel sleepy after taking it, don’t drive. Also, don’t use dangerous equipment if you feel sleepy after taking Benadryl.

Side effects in children

In children, oral Benadryl can sometimes cause unexpected side effects such as:

• restlessness
• irritability or agitation
• trouble sleeping
• muscle spasms
• seizure

In newborns, oral Benadryl can cause:

• trouble breathing
• seizures
• sudden infant death

Because of the risk of dangerous side effects in children, over-the-counter oral Benadryl products are only approved for use in children 6 years of age and older.

Warning about Benadryl use in children and babies

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends that cough and cold products not be used in children under 2 years of age due to the risk of dangerous side effects, including sudden infant death. These products often contain diphenhydramine (generic Benadryl) or other antihistamines, combined with other ingredients.

Before giving oral Benadryl to children under 6 years, or cough and cold products to children under 2 years, talk with your doctor. Your doctor may want to evaluate your child’s symptoms. They can also recommend the most appropriate medication and dosage if treatment is needed.

Benadryl products aren’t approved for use in babies (see warning above).

Over-the-counter oral Benadryl products are only approved for use in children ages 6 years and older. Benadryl products that are applied to the skin (such as the cream, gel, or spray) are only approved for use in children 2 years of age and older.

Using Benadryl in babies can increase the risk of serious side effects such as:

• restlessness
• irritability or agitation
• trouble sleeping
• muscle spasms
• trouble breathing
• seizures
• sudden infant death

Before giving Benadryl to your baby, talk with your doctor. Your doctor may want to evaluate your baby’s symptoms. If they decide that treatment with Benadryl is needed, your doctor can also recommend the most appropriate dosage of the drug.

Taking too much Benadryl can increase your risk of side effects.

Overdose symptoms

Symptoms of an overdose in adults and children can include:

• involuntary movements
• blurred vision
• decreased sweating
• restlessness
• nervousness and anxiety
• confusion
• hallucinations
• heart arrhythmia
• trouble breathing
• seizure
• coma
• death

What to do in case of overdose

If you think you’ve taken too much of this drug, call your doctor or seek guidance from the American Association of Poison Control Centers at 800-222-1222 or through their online tool. But if your symptoms are severe, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room right away.

Over-the-counter Benadryl is available in many different forms. Some are oral (taken by mouth), and others are topical (applied to the skin). Forms include:

• oral tablets
• oral chewable tablets
• oral liquid-filled capsules (liqui-gels)
• oral liquid solution
• topical cream
• topical gel
• topical spray
• topical stick

Store brands that contain diphenhydramine, the same ingredient in Benadryl, are available in other forms. These forms include:

• oral capsules
• oral tablets
• orally disintegrating tablets (rapid melt tablets)
• oral dissolving strips
• oral suspension
• lip balm

Prescription diphenhydramine, the ingredient in Benadryl, is also available as a solution that’s used for injections. No Benadryl or diphenhydramine product is available as a topical lotion or as eye drops.

Benadryl is an over-the-counter antihistamine that’s used to help relieve symptoms of hay fever, other allergies, and the common cold, as well as itchy skin caused by insect bites, hives, and other causes.

Some of Benadryl’s common uses are described below. Not all of these uses are recommended by the FDA or by medical experts.

Benadryl for allergies

Benadryl is an approved over-the-counter treatment of symptoms of hay fever and other respiratory allergies such as:

• sneezing
• runny nose
• itchy eyes
• itchy nose and throat

Benadryl is effective for reducing symptoms of allergies. However, it’s not usually a first-choice treatment for treating hay fever or other respiratory allergies. This is because of the risk of side effects such as sleepiness.

Newer, “second-generation” antihistamines are usually preferred over Benadryl for treating these conditions. These medications include:

• cetirizine (Zyrtec)
• desloratadine (Clarinex)
• fexofenadine (Allegra)
• levocetirizine (Xyzal)
• loratadine (Claritin)

Benadryl for sleep

Over-the-counter Benadryl products aren’t approved for helping to improve sleep. However, diphenhydramine, the main ingredient contained in most Benadryl products, is contained in other products that are used to help improve sleep. These products include:

These products are approved for occasional use to help relieve sleeplessness. According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, these products aren’t recommended to treat ongoing or long-term insomnia (trouble sleeping).

Benadryl for hives, itching, and rash

Some topical, over-the-counter Benadryl products are approved for treating hives, itchy skin, and rash. These products include:

• Benadryl Itch Stopping Cream
• Benadryl Itch Cooling Spray
• Benadryl Itch Stopping Gel
• Benadryl Itch Relief Stick

Oral over-the-counter Benadryl products aren’t approved to treat hives, itchy skin, and rash. However, these products are sometimes used for these purposes. They’re effective for this use, but they’re not usually a first-choice treatment because of side effects such as sleepiness.

Newer, “second-generation” antihistamines are usually preferred over oral Benadryl for treating these symptoms. These newer medications include:

• cetirizine (Zyrtec)
• desloratadine (Clarinex)
• fexofenadine (Allegra)
• levocetirizine (Xyzal)
• loratadine (Claritin)

Benadryl for anxiety

Benadryl isn’t meant to be used for treating anxiety. It can make you feel sleepy, which might temporarily make you feel less anxious. However, this effect will wear off after a few days of using the product.

If you have symptoms of anxiety, talk with your doctor about medications that are a better choice for treating your symptoms.

Benadryl for poison ivy

Some topical, over-the-counter Benadryl products are approved for treating pain and itchy skin caused by poison ivy. These products include:

• Benadryl Itch Stopping Cream
• Benadryl Itch Cooling Spray
• Benadryl Itch Stopping Gel
• Benadryl Itch Relief Stick

Benadryl for nausea or motion sickness

Over-the-counter Benadryl products aren’t approved to treat symptoms of motion sickness. However, Benadryl is often used to treat these symptoms.

Benadryl is often effective for reducing symptoms of motion sickness, but it can cause sleepiness. Other medications are considered a first-choice treatment for people who need to relieve motion sickness but want to stay awake while traveling.

If you get symptoms of motion sickness, talk with your doctor about treatment options before you travel.

Benadryl for bee stings and bug bites

Some topical, over-the-counter Benadryl products are approved for treating pain and itchy skin caused by insect bites and stings. These products include:

• Benadryl Itch Stopping Cream
• Benadryl Itch Cooling Spray
• Benadryl Itch Stopping Gel
• Benadryl Itch Relief Stick

Benadryl for cough

Oral, over-the-counter Benadryl products are approved to treat some symptoms of the common cold. These symptoms include sneezing and runny nose, but they don’t include cough.

Although some people take Benadryl to treat cough, an analysis of clinical studies shows that antihistamines such as Benadryl don’t improve symptoms of cough.

Benadryl for migraine

Over-the-counter Benadryl isn’t approved to treat migraine headaches. Diphenhydramine, the drug contained in Benadryl, is sometimes used with other medications for treating migraine headaches. However, it may not help improve symptoms.

The American Headache Society recommends against using diphenhydramine for treating migraine headaches.

Benadryl for colds

Oral over-the-counter Benadryl products are approved to treat some symptoms of the common cold, including sneezing and runny nose.

An analysis of clinical research found that antihistamines such as Benadryl can slightly decrease these symptoms in adults. But there isn’t enough research to know if Benadryl reduces these symptoms in children.

Benadryl for eczema

Over-the-counter Benadryl products aren’t approved to treat symptoms of eczema.

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends not using Benadryl products to treat eczema. This includes Benadryl products that are oral (taken by mouth) and topical (applied to the skin).

Benadryl for heat rash

Over-the-counter Benadryl products aren’t approved and don’t work to treat heat rash. Heat rash usually goes away on its own without treatment. If you have symptoms that don’t go away, call your doctor. They may recommend treatments such as calamine lotion.

Benadryl for sinus pain

Over-the-counter Benadryl products aren’t approved to treat sinus pain. However, some oral Benadryl products contain diphenhydramine, an antihistamine, and a decongestant called phenylephrine. These products can help reduce nasal congestion and stuffiness and may also help reduce sinus pressure or pain.

These products include:

• Benadryl Allergy Plus Congestion
• Children’s Allergy Plus Congestion

Benadryl for swelling

The swelling that often occurs along with hives is called angioedema. It usually occurs on the hands or feet, or around the lips and face.

Diphenhydramine (the drug contained in Benadryl) may be used for more severe cases of swelling. As an example, painful swelling could be considered severe.

Because Benadryl can cause sleepiness, it’s not typically recommended for less severe swelling. For this symptom, newer “second-generation” antihistamines are usually preferred over oral Benadryl. These medications include:

• cetirizine (Zyrtec)
• desloratadine (Clarinex)
• fexofenadine (Allegra)
• levocetirizine (Xyzal)
• loratadine (Claritin)

Note: In rare cases, swelling from hives may cause a swollen tongue or throat and cause trouble breathing. If you have these symptoms, call 911 or go to an emergency room for treatment.

Benadryl for sunburn

Some topical over-the-counter Benadryl products are approved for treating pain and itchy skin caused by sunburn. These products include:

• Benadryl Itch Stopping Cream
• Benadryl Itch Cooling Spray
• Benadryl Itch Stopping Gel
• Benadryl Itch Relief Stick

Benadryl may be safe for short-term use during pregnancy in some situations. For treatment of severe allergic reactions during pregnancy, injected diphenhydramine is often considered the first-choice treatment. Diphenhydramine is the ingredient contained in Benadryl.

Benadryl shouldn’t be used during the last two weeks of pregnancy. This is due to a risk of eye disease in the newborn.

If you’re pregnant, talk with your doctor before taking Benadryl. Your doctor may want to evaluate your symptoms to determine the safest treatment.

Taking Benadryl occasionally during breastfeeding is likely safe. However, taking Benadryl regularly or in large doses may cause side effects in a child who is breastfed. It may also reduce your milk supply.

Antihistamines that cause less sleepiness are usually preferred over oral Benadryl while breastfeeding. These medications include:

• cetirizine (Zyrtec)
• desloratadine (Clarinex)
• fexofenadine (Allegra)
• levocetirizine (Xyzal)
• loratadine (Claritin)

Benadryl is an antihistamine. There are several other antihistamines that can be used as alternatives.

Antihistamines are typically classified as either first generation or second generation.

The first-generation antihistamines usually cause more sleepiness and other side effects than the second-generation antihistamines. Benadryl contains diphenhydramine, a first-generation antihistamine. Examples of the other medications in these groups are listed below.

First-generation antihistamines include:

• brompheniramine
• chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton)
• dimenhydrinate (Dramamine)
• hydroxyzine (Vistaril)

Second-generation antihistamines include:

• cetirizine (Zyrtec)
• desloratadine (Clarinex)
• fexofenadine (Allegra)
• levocetirizine (Xyzal)
• loratadine (Claritin)

You may wonder how Benadryl compares to other medications that are prescribed for similar uses. Below are comparisons between Benadryl and several medications.

Benadryl vs. Claritin

Benadryl is a first-generation antihistamine. Claritin (loratadine) is a newer, second-generation antihistamine. The second-generation antihistamines are often called nonsedating antihistamines because they’re less likely to cause sleepiness compared to first-generation antihistamines.

Both Benadryl and Claritin are over-the-counter medications.

Uses

Oral Benadryl products are approved for decreasing symptoms of hay fever and other respiratory allergies, and symptoms of the common cold such as sneezing and runny nose. Benadryl products that are topical (applied to the skin) are approved for decreasing pain and itchy skin caused by things such as hives and insect bites.

Claritin is approved for decreasing symptoms of hay fever and other respiratory allergies.

Drug forms

Benadryl comes in many different forms, including:

• oral tablets
• oral liquid-filled capsules (liqui-gels)
• oral chewable tablets
• oral liquid solution
• topical cream
• topical gel
• topical spray
• topical stick

Oral Benadryl products are usually taken every 4 to 6 hours. Topical products are typically used up to 4 times daily.

Claritin is also available in many different forms, including:

• oral tablets
• orally disintegrating tablets
• oral liquid-filled capsules (liqui-gels)
• oral liquid syrup

Claritin tablets, liquid-filled capsules, and syrup are taken once daily. The orally disintegrating tablets are used either once daily or twice daily.

Side effects and risks

Benadryl and Claritin have some similar side effects, and some that differ. Below are examples of these side effects.

* Both Benadryl and Claritin can cause sleepiness, but it’s much more common in people who take Benadryl.

Effectiveness

Benadryl and Claritin are both effective for reducing symptoms of hay fever and other allergies, and for treating hives or itchy skin. However, Benadryl isn’t usually a first-choice treatment for these conditions due to its risk of side effects such as sleepiness.

Claritin and other second-generation antihistamines are usually preferred.

Costs

Benadryl and Claritin are both brand-name, over-the-counter products. Claritin usually costs more than Benadryl.

Both of these products have store-brand versions. Store brands are usually cheaper than the brand-name versions.

Benadryl vs. Zyrtec

Benadryl is a first-generation antihistamine. Zyrtec (cetirizine) is a newer, second-generation antihistamine. The second-generation antihistamines are often called nonsedating antihistamines because they’re less likely to cause sleepiness compared to first-generation antihistamines.

Both Benadryl and Zyrtec are over-the-counter medications.

Uses

Oral Benadryl products are approved for decreasing symptoms of hay fever and other respiratory allergies, and symptoms of the common cold such as sneezing and runny nose. Benadryl products that are topical (applied to the skin) are approved for decreasing pain and itchy skin due to hives, insect bites, and other causes.

Zyrtec is approved for decreasing symptoms of hay fever and other respiratory allergies.

Drug forms

Benadryl is available in many different forms, including:

• oral tablets
• oral liquid-filled capsules (liqui-gels)
• oral chewable tablets
• oral liquid solution
• topical cream
• topical gel
• topical spray
• topical stick

Oral Benadryl products are usually taken every 4 to 6 hours. Topical Benadryl products are typically used up to 4 times daily.

Zyrtec is also available in many different forms, including:

• oral tablets
• orally disintegrating tablets (dissolve tabs)
• oral liquid gels
• oral liquid syrup

Zyrtec products are usually taken once daily.

Side effects and risks

Benadryl and Zyrtec have some similar side effects, and some that differ. Below are examples of these side effects.

* Both Benadryl and Zyrtec can cause sleepiness, but it’s more common in people who take Benadryl.

Effectiveness

Benadryl and Zyrtec are both effective for reducing symptoms of hay fever and other allergies, and for treating hives or itchy skin. However, Benadryl isn’t usually a first-choice for these conditions because of its risk of side effects such as sleepiness. Zyrtec and other second-generation antihistamines are usually preferred.

Costs

Benadryl and Zyrtec are both brand-name over-the-counter products. Zyrtec usually costs more than Benadryl.

Both of these products have store-brand versions. Store brands are usually cheaper than the brand-name versions.

Benadryl vs. Allegra

Benadryl is a first-generation antihistamine. Allegra (fexofenadine) is a newer, second-generation antihistamine. The second-generation antihistamines are often called nonsedating antihistamines because they’re less likely to cause sleepiness compared to first-generation antihistamines.

Both Benadryl and Allegra are over-the-counter medications.

Uses

Oral Benadryl products are approved for decreasing symptoms of hay fever and other respiratory allergies, and symptoms of the common cold such as sneezing and runny nose. Benadryl products that are topical (applied to the skin) are approved for decreasing pain and itchy skin due to hives, insect bites, and other causes.

Allegra is approved for decreasing symptoms of hay fever and other respiratory allergies, and itchy skin caused by hives, insect bites, and other causes.

Drug forms

Benadryl is available in many different forms, including:

• oral tablets
• oral liquid-filled capsules (liqui-gels)
• oral chewable tablets
• oral liquid solution
• topical cream
• topical gel
• topical spray
• topical stick

Oral Benadryl products are usually taken every 4 to 6 hours. Topical Benadryl products are typically used up to 4 times daily.

Allegra is also available in many different forms, including:

• oral tablets
• orally disintegrating tablets (meltable tablets)
• oral gel-coated tablets (gelcaps)
• oral liquid suspension

Allegra products are taken once or twice daily.

Side effects and risks

Benadryl and Allegra have some similar side effects, and some that differ. Below are examples of these side effects.

Effectiveness

Benadryl and Allegra are both effective for reducing symptoms of hay fever and other allergies and for treating hives or itchy skin. However, Benadryl isn’t usually a first-choice for these conditions because of the risk of side effects such as sleepiness. Allegra and other second-generation antihistamines are usually preferred.

Costs

Benadryl and Allegra are both brand-name, over-the-counter products. Allegra usually costs more than Benadryl.

Both of these products have store-brand versions. Store brands are usually cheaper than the brand-name versions.

Benadryl vs. Unisom

Benadryl contains the ingredient diphenhydramine, a first-generation antihistamine.

There are different forms of Unisom. Most of these also contain the ingredient diphenhydramine. However, one Unisom product contains a similar drug, doxylamine.

Uses

Oral Benadryl products are approved for decreasing symptoms of hay fever and other respiratory allergies, and symptoms of the common cold such as sneezing and runny nose. Benadryl products that are topical (applied to the skin) are approved for decreasing pain and itchy skin due to hives, insect bites, and other causes.

Although it’s not approved for this purpose, some people take Benadryl to help improve their sleep.

Unisom is approved for helping relieve occasional sleeplessness. It’s not intended to be used to treat ongoing or long-term insomnia (trouble sleeping).

Drug forms

Benadryl is available in many different forms, including:

• oral tablets
• oral liquid-filled capsules (liqui-gels)
• oral chewable tablets
• oral liquid solution
• topical cream
• topical gel
• topical spray
• topical stick

Oral Benadryl products are usually taken every 4 to 6 hours. Topical Benadryl products are typically used up to 4 times daily. Oral Benadryl products aren’t approved for sleeplessness, but some people take oral Benadryl once before bedtime for that purpose.

There are also several forms of Unisom products. These include:

• diphenhydramine-containing products:
• oral softgels (SleepGels)
• oral mini capsules (SleepMinis)
• oral liquid
• orally disintegrating tablets (SleepMelts)
• doxylamine-contain product:

These products are usually taken once daily just before bedtime or at bedtime.

Side effects and risks

Benadryl and most Unisom products contain the same ingredient, diphenhydramine. One form of Unisom contains a different ingredient, doxylamine. Doxylamine is very similar to diphenhydramine and causes very similar common and serious side effects.

The most common side effects of Benadryl and Unisom include:

• headache
• dizziness
• weakness
• dry mouth
• sleepiness

Some serious side effects can include:

• decreased memory
• impaired thinking
• confusion
• impaired driving
• seizures
• fast heartbeat
• dementia

Effectiveness

Benadryl and most forms of Unisom contain the same active ingredient, diphenhydramine. Both products can help with falling asleep in people with occasional sleeplessness. This effect may decrease or wear off with continued use.

According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, these products aren’t recommended to treat ongoing or long-term insomnia (trouble sleeping).

Costs

Benadryl and Unisom are both brand-name over-the-counter products. These products usually cost about the same.

Both of these products have store-brand versions. Store brands are usually cheaper than the brand-name versions.

Benadryl vs. melatonin

Benadryl contains the ingredient diphenhydramine, a first-generation antihistamine.

Melatonin is a hormone that naturally occurs in the body. It’s involved in regulating the wake-sleep cycle of the body. It’s available as a dietary supplement.

Uses

Oral Benadryl products are approved for decreasing symptoms of hay fever and other respiratory allergies, and symptoms of the common cold such as sneezing and runny nose. Benadryl products that are topical (applied to the skin) are approved for decreasing pain and itchy skin due to hives, insect bites, and other causes.

Although it’s not approved, some people take oral Benadryl to help improve their sleep.

Melatonin is most commonly used to help relieve sleeplessness.

Drug forms

Benadryl is available in many different forms, including:

• oral tablets
• oral liquid-filled capsules (liqui-gels)
• oral chewable tablets
• oral liquid solution
• topical cream
• topical gel
• topical spray
• topical stick

Oral Benadryl products are usually taken every 4 to 6 hours. Topical Benadryl products are typically used up to 4 times daily. Oral Benadryl products aren’t approved for sleeplessness, but some people take oral Benadryl once before bedtime for that purpose.

Melatonin is also available in different forms, including:

• oral tablets
• oral gummies
• orally dissolving tablets (fast-dissolving tablets)
• oral capsules
• oral chewable tablets
• oral liquid

Melatonin is usually taken once daily at bedtime.

Side effects and risks

Benadryl and melatonin have some similar side effects, and some that differ. Below are examples of these side effects.

Effectiveness

Benadryl can help with falling asleep in people with occasional sleeplessness. However, this effect may decrease or wear off with continued use of the product.

In an analysis of clinical studies, melatonin slightly decreases the time it takes to fall asleep and increases total sleep time. These effects don’t decrease with continued use of the product.

According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, neither Benadryl nor melatonin are recommended to treat ongoing or long-term insomnia (trouble sleeping).

Costs

Melatonin usually costs more than Benadryl.

Both of these products have store-brand versions. Store brands are usually cheaper than the brand-name versions.

You shouldn’t consume alcohol while taking Benadryl. Drinking alcohol with Benadryl can increase the effects of alcohol and cause excess sleepiness that can impair your abilities. For instance, you may have trouble driving.

Benadryl can interact with several other medications. It can also interact with certain supplements.

Benadryl and other medications

Below is a list of medications that can interact with Benadryl. This list doesn’t contain all drugs that may interact with Benadryl.

Different drug interactions can cause different effects. For instance, some can interfere with how well a drug works, while others can cause increased side effects.

If you take other medications, talk with your pharmacist before taking Benadryl. Your pharmacist can help you avoid potential interactions.

Anticholinergic drugs

Anticholinergic drugs block the action of acetylcholine, a chemical that relays messages between cells in your body. Benadryl also blocks acetylcholine. Because anticholinergic drugs and Benadryl work in the same way, taking them together can increase the risk of side effects. Examples of these drugs include:

• fesoterodine (Toviaz)
• oxybutynin (Gelnique, Ditropan XL, Oxytrol)
• scopolamine (Transderm Scop)
• tolterodine (Detrol)

Medications that cause sleepiness

Many medications can cause sleepiness. Taking these drugs with Benadryl can increase the risk of excessive sleepiness. Examples of these medications include:

Antihistamines, such as:

• brompheniramine
• chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton)
• doxylamine (Unisom)
• dimenhydrinate (Dramamine)
• hydroxyzine (Vistaril)

Antidepressant drugs, such as:

• citalopram (Celexa)
• escitalopram (Lexapro)
• fluoxetine (Prozac, Sarafem)
• paroxetine (Paxil)
• sertraline (Zoloft)
• amitriptyline
• desipramine (Norpramin)
• doxepin
• imipramine (Tofranil)
• nortriptyline (Pamelor)

Antipsychotic drugs, such as:

• haloperidol (Haldol)
• olanzapine (Zyprexa)
• quetiapine (Seroquel)
• risperidone (Risperdal)

Benzodiazepines, such as:

• alprazolam (Xanax)
• clonazepam (Klonopin)
• diazepam (Valium)
• lorazepam (Ativan)

Opioids, such as:

• codeine
• hydrocodone (Hysingla ER, Zohydro ER)
• oxycodone (OxyContin, Roxicodone)
• tramadol (ConZip, Ultram)

Sedative-hypnotic drugs, such as:

• ramelteon (Rozerem)
• zaleplon (Sonata)
• zolpidem (Ambien)

Benadryl and Xanax

Xanax (alprazolam) is a type of drug called a benzodiazepine, which can cause sleepiness. Taking Xanax with Benadryl can increase your risk of excessive sleepiness. This can make you too sleepy to drive or prevent you from doing other potentially dangerous activities safely.

If you take Xanax, talk with your doctor before taking Benadryl. They may recommend other treatment options.

Benadryl and Zoloft

Zoloft (sertraline) is an antidepressant that can cause sleepiness in some people who take it. Taking Zoloft with Benadryl may increase the risk of excessive sleepiness. This can make you too sleepy to drive or prevent you from doing other potentially dangerous activities safely.

If you take Zoloft, talk with your doctor before taking Benadryl. They may recommend other treatment options.

Benadryl and Zyrtec

Zyrtec (cetirizine) is an antihistamine. Benadryl is also an antihistamine. Taking Benadryl with Zyrtec may increase the risk of certain side effects such as sleepiness, dry mouth, fatigue, and headache.

If you take Zyrtec, talk with your doctor before taking Benadryl. They may recommend other treatment options.

Benadryl and Motrin

There are no known interactions between Benadryl and Motrin (ibuprofen).

Benadryl and acetaminophen

There are no known interactions between Benadryl and acetaminophen (Tylenol).

Benadryl and herbs and supplements

Some herbs and supplements can cause sleepiness. Taking these with Benadryl can increase the risk of excessive sleepiness. Examples of these supplements include:

As with all medications, the costs of Benadryl products can vary.

The actual price you’ll pay depends on your insurance plan, your location, and the pharmacy you use

Take Benadryl according to the instructions on the package or according to the directions you’ve received from your doctor.

Timing

For hay fever or other respiratory allergies, oral Benadryl is typically taken every 4 to 6 hours. If topical Benadryl is used to treat itchy skin, it should be applied up to 4 times daily. Each application should be separated by 4 to 6 hours.

Taking Benadryl with food

Benadryl can be taken with or without food.

Can Benadryl be crushed?

Benadryl tablets can be crushed. If you have trouble swallowing whole tablets, Benadryl liquid solution and chewable tablets are available.

Benadryl is an antihistamine. If you have allergies or have a cold, your body releases a chemical messenger called histamine. This messenger causes symptoms such as inflammation, edema (swelling), itchiness, and runny nose.

Benadryl blocks some of the effects of histamine and decreases some of the symptoms caused by it.

How long does it take to work?

When taken by mouth, Benadryl begins to work within 15 to 30 minutes. When applied to the skin, it works right away.

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Benadryl.

Does Benadryl make you sleepy?

Yes, Benadryl causes most people who take it to feel sleepy. This side effect may go away after three to four days of daily use.

Can Benadryl help with anxiety?

Benadryl isn’t an effective treatment for anxiety. Since Benadryl can make you feel sleepy, some people may feel that it causes them to relax. However, this effect often goes away after using the product for a few days.

Is Benadryl an NSAID?

No, Benadryl isn’t an NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug). Benadryl is an antihistamine.

Can Benadryl be used as an expectorant?

No, Benadryl doesn’t work as an expectorant. An expectorant is a product that loosens mucus in your respiratory tract so you can cough it up.

Before taking Benadryl, talk with your doctor about any medical conditions you have. Benadryl may not be a good choice for you if you have certain medical conditions. Examples of these conditions include:

• Asthma. Taking Benadryl can sometimes cause thickening of mucus in the trachea (windpipe). This might worsen asthma attacks.
• Bladder or prostate problems. Benadryl can worsen symptoms of urinary retention in people with bladder problems or prostate problems.
• Dementia. Benadryl can cause memory problems and can worsen symptoms of dementia. People with dementia should avoid taking Benadryl.
• Glaucoma. Benadryl can worsen symptoms of glaucoma. People with glaucoma should avoid taking Benadryl.
• Heart problems or high blood pressure. Although not common, Benadryl can sometimes cause heart-related side effects such as a fast heartbeat or low blood pressure. These effects can worsen certain heart conditions.
• Liver disease. The body breaks down Benadryl in the liver. People with liver disease may not be able to process Benadryl properly, leaving an increased amount of the drug in their body. This can lead to a higher risk of side effects from Benadryl. If you have liver disease, you may need a lower dosage of Benadryl.

Other warnings apply to certain groups:

• For people who wear contact lenses. Benadryl can cause dry eyes. This may cause problems for people who wear contact lenses.
• For seniors. Older adults have a higher risk of side effects from Benadryl, especially when it’s used long-term. Second-generation antihistamines may be a better choice for seniors.

Each Benadryl package is given an expiration date by the manufacturer of the product. This date is printed on the package. The purpose of the expiration date is to guarantee the effectiveness of the medication during this time.

The current stance of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is to avoid using expired medications. However, an FDA study showed that many medications may still be good beyond the expiration date listed on the bottle.

How long a medication remains good can depend on many factors, including how and where the medication is stored. Benadryl should be stored at room temperature in its original container. Excessive humidity should be avoided.

If you have unused medication that has gone past the expiration date, talk to your pharmacist about whether you might still be able to use it.

The following information is provided for clinicians and other healthcare professionals.

Mechanism of action

Benadryl is an h2-receptor antagonist. It competes with free histamine at the h2-receptor binding sites. Benadryl antiemetic effects are likely due to central anticholinergic effects. Benadryl also has central nervous system depressant effects and has a direct suppressive effect on the cough center.

Pharmacokinetics and metabolism

After oral administration, the onset of action is approximately 15 to 30 minutes. Peak concentrations occur in 2 to 4 hours.

Benadryl is metabolized hepatically. The plasma half-life is 2 to 8 hours with a duration of action of about 4 to 6 hours.

Contraindications

Benadryl is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to Benadryl or any of its components.

Storage

Benadryl should be stored at room temperature in its original container. Excessive humidity should be avoided.

Disclaimer: MedicalNewsToday has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up-to-date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or other healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.

Benadryl dosage, forms, and strengths

Benadryl forms and strengths | Benadryl for adults | Benadryl for children | Benadryl dosage chart | Benadryl dosage for allergies | Benadryl dosage for motion sickness | Benadryl dosage for insomnia |Benadryl for pets | How to take Benadryl | FAQs

Benadryl is an over-the-counter medication that temporarily relieves allergy symptoms caused by a natural substance in the body called histamine. Diphenhydramine, the active ingredient in brand-name Benadryl, is an antihistamine that blocks the activity of histamine to reduce symptoms such as a runny nose, watery eyes, and itching. 

Diphenhydramine also causes drowsiness and slows down the part of the brain that controls nausea. For these reasons, Benadryl can also be used to provide occasional insomnia relief or prevent motion sickness. 

For patients older than 12, the standard dosage of Benadryl Allergy is 25 to 50 mg (milligrams)—one to two tablets or capsules—every four to six hours. Children between the ages of 6 and 11 can be given Benadryl at a maximum dose of 25 mg (one tablet or capsule) every four to six hours. Benadryl can be taken with or without food.

RELATED: What is Benadryl Allergy? | Benadryl Allergy coupons

Benadryl dosage forms and strengths

Benadryl tablets and gel capsules contain 25 mg of diphenhydramine hydrochloride and are typically taken by adults and children 6 years and older. Benadryl Allergy Plus Congestion, however, also contains 10 mg of phenylephrine hydrochloride, a nasal decongestant. Benadryl Allergy Plus Congestion should not be given to children younger than 12 unless directed by a physician.

Benadryl dosage for adults

The standard adult Benadryl dose is one to two tablets or gel capsules (25-50 mg) every four to six hours.

• Standard Benadryl dosage for adults: One to two tablets/capsules (25-50 mg) every four to six hours.
• Maximum Benadryl dosage for adults: Two tablets/capsules (50 mg) every four hours to a maximum of 12 tablets (300 mg) in 24 hours.

Benadryl dosage for children

Benadryl dosages may be based on age or weight in children. Children’s Benadryl Allergy is more suitable for children between the ages of 6 and 11. Containing half the dose of diphenhydramine (12.5 mg) as Benadryl Allergy, Children’s Benadryl Allergy is sold in child-friendly liquid and chewable tablet formats.

• Children’s Benadryl dosage for children ages 2 to 5: Do not give unless directed by a physician.
• Children’s Benadryl dosage for children ages 6 to 11: One to two chewable tablets or 5 to 10 mL every four to six hours to a maximum of 12 tablets or 60 mL in 24 hours.
• Children’s Benadryl dosage for children ages 12 and older: Two to four chewable tablets or 10 to 20 mL every four to six hours to a maximum of 24 tablets or 120 mL in 24 hours.

RELATED: What is Children’s Benadryl? | Children’s Benadryl coupons

Benadryl (the adult formulation) may be given to children between the ages of 6 and 11, but should not be given to children younger than 6. Although Benadryl Allergy may be used to relieve insomnia in children 12 or older, it should not be used as a sleep aid in children younger than 12.

• Standard Benadryl dosage for children younger than 6: Do not give unless directed by a physician.
• Standard Benadryl dosage for children ages 6 to 11: One tablet/capsule (25 mg) every four to six hours.
• Maximum Benadryl dosage for children ages 6 to 11: One tablet/capsule (25 mg) every four hours to a maximum of six tablets (150 mg) in 24 hours.

Note: Children between the ages of 6 and 11 should be not given Benadryl Allergy Plus Congestion except under the direction of a pediatrician. 

Benadryl dosage for allergy symptoms

Benadryl relieves symptoms caused by allergies, hay fever, or the common cold including runny nose, congestion, sinus pressure, sneezing, rash, watery or itchy eyes, and itchy nose. It’s also indicated to relieve itchy skin (pruritus) caused by histamine release due to an allergic reaction (contact dermatitis), hives (urticaria), or insect bites.

• Adults and adolescents (12 years and older): 25-50 mg every four to six hours.
• Pediatric patients (6-11 years of age): 25 mg every four to six hours.
• Renally impaired patients:
  • Creatinine clearance 10-30 mL/min: No adjustment.
  • Dialysis: No adjustment and no supplement.
• Other cautions: Ask a doctor before taking Benadryl if you have one of the following health conditions:
  • Ocular hypertension or glaucoma
  • Hyperthyroidism
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • High blood pressure
  • Asthma or COPD
  • GI obstruction or peptic ulcer disease
  • Enlarged prostate
  • Bladder neck obstruction

Benadryl dosage for motion sickness

Benadryl may be used to prevent and treat motion sickness.

• Adults and adolescents (12 years and older): 25 to 50 mg 30 minutes before travel and every six to eight hours during travel.
• Pediatric patients (6-11 years of age): 12.5 to 25 mg 30 minutes before travel and every six to eight hours during travel.

Benadryl dosage for insomnia

Benadryl may be used for the occasional relief of insomnia or travel-related sleeplessness in adults and adolescents 12 years or older.

• Adults and adolescents (12 years and older): 25 to 50 mg 30 minutes before bedtime.
• Pediatric patients (6-11 years of age): Do not give unless directed by a physician.

Benadryl dosage for pets

Benadryl is not approved for use in pets, but veterinarians do give generic diphenhydramine to dogs, cats, and large animals for the treatment of allergic reactions, nasal allergies, itching, hives, motion sickness, and anxiety problems. Veterinarians also use diphenhydramine to treat some cancers (mast cell tumors), shock, life-threatening allergic reactions, and other conditions. 

The standard veterinary dosage is 2 to 4 mg of diphenhydramine for each kilogram of body weight (1 to 2 mg per pound) given two or three times per day. However, consult a veterinarian before giving your pet Benadryl or any other OTC medication.

RELATED: How to treat allergies in cats and dogs

How to take Benadryl

For healthy adults and children 12 or older, take one to two tablets or capsules by mouth every four to six hours or as directed by a healthcare provider. Benadryl can be taken with or without food.

• Follow the instructions on the medicine label if you are using this medicine without a prescription.
• If you are using this medicine with a prescription, the prescribing doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
• Swallow the tablet or gel capsule whole. Do not crush, break, or chew it.

Safety tips

When taking or administering Benadryl, you may want to consider the following safety and effectiveness tips:

• Always check the expiration date. If the medicine has passed its expiration date, dispose of it safely and purchase a new box.
• Store Benadryl at room temperature (68˚-77˚F)
• Check all other medications that you or your child are taking to make sure they do not also contain diphenhydramine or phenylephrine. Both are commonly found in combination cold, flu, or allergy medications. Pay particular attention to topical itch medications that may contain diphenhydramine. These drugs—including topical diphenhydramine—should never be used with Benadryl.
• Do not take Benadryl with alcohol or sedatives.
• People who have glaucoma, breathing problems due to emphysema or chronic bronchitis, or difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate should talk to a doctor before taking Benadryl.
• Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should seek medical advice before taking Benadryl.
• Although Benadryl is approved for children 6 years or older, Benadryl Allergy should not be used as a sleep aid in children younger than 12. 
• For motion sickness, take Benadryl 30 minutes before traveling or exposure to motion. If you are going on a long trip, take the next doses every six to eight hours.
• For each dose, record the time in a diary or schedule to ensure that the next dose is not given too early.
• Benadryl is a sedative, so do not operate machinery or drive if you feel tired, woozy, or unfocused. It’s a good idea to remove obstacles and hazards in the home before taking diphenhydramine.

Benadryl dosage FAQs

How long does it take Benadryl to work?

Taken as directed, Benadryl Allergy usually starts working 30 minutes after being swallowed and reaches peak levels in the body in approximately two hours. In general, food does not affect the absorption of Benadryl or reduce its effectiveness. However, regular use of Benadryl can lead to tolerance. Over time, the standard dose may gradually lose effectiveness.

How long does Benadryl stay in your system?

At the recommended dosage, the effects of Benadryl should last four to six hours, but this will vary. As a general rule, the amount of time Benadryl stays in the system increases with age. 

Healthcare professionals measure how long a drug stays in the body by half-life, which is the time it takes for the body to eliminate half the amount of a drug in the body. The half-life of diphenhydramine in children is four to seven hours (five hours average). For adults, the half-life is seven to 12 hours (nine hours average). For seniors, the half-life ranges from nine to 18 hours (average: 13.5 hours).

What happens if I miss a dose of Benadryl?

There is no problem missing a dose of Benadryl. Take the missed dose at any time. The dosing schedule will reset, so wait at least four hours before taking the next dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How do I stop taking Benadryl?

You can safely use Benadryl regularly to treat allergic reactions, insomnia, or motion sickness. It should be used only occasionally as a sleep aid. Diphenhydramine is sometimes abused. Chronic use of Benadryl, especially to relieve anxiety or sleeplessness, may result in dependence and produce withdrawal symptoms if Benadryl is rapidly discontinued. High doses of Benadryl can cause serious heart problems, seizures, coma, and death. Before discontinuing Benadryl, talk to a healthcare provider about tapering the Benadryl dose or using alternative medications or therapies for reducing anxiety or treating insomnia.

You should discontinue Benadryl and consult a healthcare provider if you experience excessive nervousness, sleepiness, allergic reactions, or if symptoms do not improve after seven days.

What can be used instead of Benadryl Allergy?

Healthcare professionals usually discourage the use of first-generation antihistamines such as diphenhydramine, the active ingredient in Benadryl. Second-generation antihistamines are equally as effective as diphenhydramine without causing as much sedation or drowsiness. Instead of Benadryl Allergy, you can choose several over-the-counter second-generation antihistamines such as Claritin (loratadine), Alavert (loratadine), Allegra (fexofenadine), Zyrtec (cetirizine), and Xyzal (levocetirizine). 

What is the maximum dosage for Benadryl?

The maximum dose is 50 mg (two tablets or gel capsules) every four hours to a maximum of 300 mg (12 tablets or gel capsules) in any 24-hour period for adults and adolescents 12 or older. 

For children between the ages of 6 and 11, the maximum dosage is 25 mg (one tablet or gel capsule) every four hours not to exceed 150 mg (six tablets or capsules) in any 24-hour period.

What interacts with Benadryl?

Foods do not interfere with the absorption or effectiveness of Benadryl. 

Several OTC and prescription drugs can interact with Benadryl, and some may reduce Benadryl’s effectiveness. Drugs that depress or slow down the central nervous system such as tranquilizers, alcohol, or sedatives may enhance Benadryl side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, sedation, dry mouth, and blurred vision. Always talk to a healthcare provider before combining Benadryl Allergy with central nervous system depressants or other medications.

Benadryl Allergy Plus Congestion also contains phenylephrine, a stimulant. When taken with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), a family of drugs that includes certain types of antidepressants, antibiotics, and Parkinson’s medications, phenylephrine can cause a dangerous and potentially life-threatening rise in blood pressure. Do not take Benadryl with an MAO inhibitor or within 14 days of discontinuing an MAOI inhibitor. Consult with your doctor, pharmacist, or another healthcare provider if you think a medication you’re taking might be an MAO inhibitor.

Resources:

• Benadryl Allergy, Epocrates
• Children’s Benadryl, Epocrates
• Dosing guide, Johnson & Johnson
• Benadryl Allergy Ultratab Tablets, Johnson & Johnson
• Benadryl Allergy Dye-Free Liqui-Gels, Johnson & Johnson
• Benadryl Allergy Plus Congestion, Johnson & Johnson
• Compound summary, National Library of Medicine
• Diphenhydramine, StatPearls
• Diphenhydramine for animals, VCA Hospitals
• Chronic diphenhydramine abuse and withdrawal, Neurology: Clinical Practice
• Antihistamine dosages, MSD Veterinary Manual
• The pharmacologic management of motion sickness, U.S. Pharmacist
• FDA warns about serious problems with high doses of the allergy medicine diphenhydramine, FDA

Benadryl (Diphenhydramine) – Side Effects, Interactions, Uses, Dosage, Warnings

Use Benadryl (Diphenhydramine) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Diphenhydramine is only for short-term use until your symptoms clear up.

Taking too much diphenhydramine can lead to serious heart problems, seizures, coma, or death.

Always follow directions on the medicine label about giving diphenhydramine to a child. Do not use the medicine only to make a child sleepy. Death can occur from the misuse of antihistamines in very young children.

For motion sickness, take diphenhydramine 30 minutes before you will be in a situation that causes you motion sickness (such as a long car ride, airplane or boat travel, amusement park rides, etc). Continue taking diphenhydramine with meals and at bedtime for the rest of the time you will be in a motion-sickness situation.

As a sleep aid, take diphenhydramine within 30 minutes before bedtime.

You must chew the chewable tablet before you swallow it.

Measure liquid medicine carefully. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).

Remove an orally disintegrating tablet from the package only when you are ready to take the medicine. Place the tablet in your mouth and allow it to dissolve, without chewing. Swallow several times as the tablet dissolves.

Call your doctor if the condition you are treating with diphenhydramine does not improve, or if you have a fever with a headache, cough, or skin rash.

Do not use diphenhydramine for longer than 2 weeks to treat sleep problems, or longer than 7 days to treat cold or allergy symptoms.

This medicine can affect the results of allergy skin tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using diphenhydramine.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Diphenhydramine: MedlinePlus Drug Information

Diphenhydramine comes as a tablet, a rapidly disintegrating (dissolving) tablet, a capsule, a liquid-filled capsule, a dissolving strip, powder, and a liquid to take by mouth. When diphenhydramine is used for the relief of allergies, cold, and cough symptoms, it is usually taken every 4 to 6 hours. When diphenhydramine is used to treat motion sickness, it is usually taken 30 minutes before departure and, if needed, before meals and at bedtime. When diphenhydramine is used to treat insomnia it is taken at bedtime (30 minutes before planned sleep). When diphenhydramine is used to treat abnormal movements, it is usually taken three times a day at first and then taken 4 times a day. Follow the directions on the package or on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take diphenhydramine exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor or directed on the label.

Diphenhydramine comes alone and in combination with pain relievers, fever reducers, and decongestants. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice on which product is best for your symptoms. Check nonprescription cough and cold product labels carefully before using two or more products at the same time. These products may contain the same active ingredient(s) and taking them together could cause you to receive an overdose. This is especially important if you will be giving cough and cold medications to a child.

Nonprescription cough and cold combination products, including products that contain diphenhydramine, can cause serious side effects or death in young children. Do not give these products to children younger than 4 years of age. If you give these products to children 4 to 11 years of age, use caution and follow the package directions carefully.

If you are giving diphenhydramine or a combination product that contains diphenhydramine to a child, read the package label carefully to be sure that it is the right product for a child of that age. Do not give diphenhydramine products that are made for adults to children.

Before you give a diphenhydramine product to a child, check the package label to find out how much medication the child should receive. Give the dose that matches the child’s age on the chart. Ask the child’s doctor if you don’t know how much medication to give the child.

If you are taking the liquid, do not use a household spoon to measure your dose. Use the measuring spoon or cup that came with the medication or use a spoon made especially for measuring medication.

If you are taking the dissolving strips, place the strips on your tongue one at a time and swallow after they melt.

If you are taking the rapidly dissolving tablets, place a tablet on your tongue and close your mouth. The tablet will quickly dissolve and can be swallowed with or without water.

If you are taking the capsules, swallow them whole. Do not try to break the capsules.

Can I Give My Dog Benadryl and If So, How Much?

Reviewed and updated for accuracy on January 27, 2020, by Dr. Katie Grzyb, DVM

NOTE: It’s always best to contact your veterinarian for guidance before administering any medication to your pet, including Benadryl.

Benadryl, also known by its generic name, diphenhydramine, is one of the few over-the-counter drugs that veterinarians routinely have owners administer at home. 

You might be looking for Benadryl to ease your dog’s anxiety, or maybe your dog was stung by an insect and is having a mild allergic reaction.

While Benadryl is generally well tolerated by dogs and has a wide safety margin, it’s not necessarily the answer to your dog’s issue.

Benadryl can interact with other medications that your pet may be on (such as anticoagulants and other depressants for the nervous system), making it pertinent to speak with a vet prior to administering.

Find out when Benadryl is effective and safe and when your dog needs a different treatment. Here are a few things you should keep in mind before giving your dog Benadryl.

1. Can Dogs Take Benadryl for Anxiety?

You might have heard that Benadryl can be given to dogs to help with travel anxiety or dogs that are scared of fireworks and thunderstorms. Benadryl has some efficacy in the prevention of motion sickness in dogs and as a mild sedative, but the effects are not the same as with people.

If your dog has anxiety, it’s best to talk with your veterinarian to determine a course of treatment, as it might involve making changes to your dog’s environment, behavioral training, or tools such as anxiety vests and pheromones.

Also, a small percentage of dogs and cats can have the opposite reaction to Benadryl, causing hyperactivity instead of sedation. So it’s important to trial it at home prior to using it for travel.

2. Can Benadryl Be Used for Dog Allergies?

Benadryl is an antihistamine that blocks the H-1 receptors on smooth muscle and blood vessels. Taken orally, Benadryl can be mild to moderately effective for dogs experiencing mild allergic symptoms.

Vets commonly use it to treat environmental allergies and allergic reactions to insect bites or stings. It can also be used as a pre-treatment for possible vaccine reactions.

But if your pet is having an acute allergic reaction with facial swelling or difficulty breathing, take them straight to the vet. Many allergic diseases also require a combination of allergy medicine and treatment of underlying infections. 

3. Benadryl Safety: Which Dogs Can’t Have It?

By and large, Benadryl is very well-tolerated in dogs with few side effects. It remains one of the safest over-the-counter drugs that veterinarians frequently reach for and recommend for their canine patients.

But the reason why you still need to check with your veterinarian is to ensure that it is safe for your dog to take Benadryl, because there are safety risks if your dog has certain health conditions. Some instances in which it should not be used include:

4. What’s the Benadryl Dosage for Dogs?

The standard dosage for oral Benadryl for dogs is 1 mg per pound of body weight, given 2-3 times a day. Most diphenhydramine tablets are 25 mg, which is the size used for a 25-pound dog.

But the safest way to give the proper dose is to ask your veterinarian. In addition, many formulations are combined with other medications such as Tylenol, so make sure Benadryl tablets contain only diphenhydramine.

By: Jessica Vogelsang, DVM

Featured Image: iStock.com/ILIA KALINKIN

Is It Possible to Get High on Benedryl?

Some over-the-counter drugs such as Benadryl can mimic the types of high feelings that marijuana and other drugs produce. The active drug in Benadryl is diphenhydramine. When taken according to directions, this drug is meant to treat symptoms of colds and allergies, and it’s sometimes used for motion sickness or insomnia. Benadryl is usually effective and safe to use, but it can be misused as well. When taken in greater quantities than recommended, this and other nonprescription drugs can have dangerous side effects and become a danger to health.

What Is Benadryl?

Benadryl is a nonprescription medication that can be used to fight the effects of allergies and colds. It’s classified as an antihistamine and can lessen symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose and itchy or watery eyes. Benadryl is also taken for its ability to alleviate hives and the redness and itchy skin caused by insect stings or allergic reactions.

How Does Benadryl Work?

Diphenhydramine, the active ingredient in Benadryl, is an antihistamine, and it attacks histamines — substances produced by the body. Histamines fight bodily invaders, such as pollen and cold viruses. The antihistamine action of Benadryl stops some of the histamines from doing their job, preventing excess inflammation. Taking too much of the drug, however, can heighten side effects and be dangerous to your health.

Is Benadryl Safe to Take?

When taken in the appropriate dose, Benadryl is safe and effective. But our bodies are designed for homeostasis, a type of equilibrium that supports a narrow range of tolerance for drugs. Histamines serve a purpose, and taking too much Benadryl can inhibit them too severely, causing side effects such as blurred vision, headache, gastrointestinal discomfort and dry mouth.

Benadryl is not supposed to be used long term, and taking it for an extended period of time can lead to problems such as anxiety, memory loss, constipation and blurred vision. It can also impair thinking and exacerbate restless leg syndrome. If long-term medication is needed, a physician can prescribe a different type of drug that’s safer to use on a regular basis.

How Much Is Too Much?

The smallest dosage that produces relief should be used and no more often than the directions on the package specify. For adults, the typical dosage for hay fever, allergies and cold symptoms is 25 to 50 mg, taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed. The maximum adult dosage of Benadryl is 300 mg per day. The four most common side effects of Benadryl, when taken as directed, are:

• Drowsiness
• Headache
• Dry mouth
• Dizziness

Several factors affect the severity of side effects, including a person’s age, weight, hydration and whether they’re taking any other medications. Ingesting more than the recommended dose may lead to dry nasal membranes, an upset stomach, constipation, agitation and a feeling of weakness. These symptoms are rare, and if you’re experiencing them, you should check with your doctor before taking any more Benadryl. People who have liver or kidney disease should also check with a physician before taking Benadryl, and it may be contraindicated for those with:

• Heart disease
• High blood pressure
• Low blood pressure
• Bronchitis
• Emphysema
• Thyroid disease
• Glaucoma
• Asthma

What Is a Benadryl High?

A Benadryl trip can mimic the high feeling caused by some recreational drugs due to feelings of extreme drowsiness. Large doses of Benadryl can also cause confusion and memory loss and lead to a Benadryl overdose. As with some opioids, frequent users can even develop a dependence on the drug. Ingesting alcohol or taking other drugs along with diphenhydramine can intensify the experience of being high, but it’s extremely dangerous.

Why Do People Abuse Benadryl?

Those in search of a Benadryl high don’t realize that it’s not a drug that can be used to create the type of feelings experienced from using alcohol, marijuana or opioids. There’s been a recent epidemic of young people taking the “Benadryl challenge” popularized on social media. Its availability as an over-the-counter drug may be a reason for this disturbing trend, along with the teenage desire to experiment.

Symptoms of a Benadryl Overdose

Those searching for a Benadryl high can end up overdosing if they take more than 500 to 1,000 mg, or 10 to 20 times the highest recommended adult dose. Certain drugs can magnify the sedative effects, and dehydration can keep the body from metabolizing the drug effectively. In extreme cases, a Benadryl overdose can lead to heart problems, hallucinations, seizures and death.

A person can accidentally overdose on Benadryl by taking another dose before the last one has worn off or by forgetting and repeating a dosage. If someone who’s taken Benadryl collapses, can’t be awakened, has a seizure or has difficulty breathing, call 911 immediately. Symptoms of a Benadryl overdose may include:

• Anxiety
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Amnesia
• Inability to urinate
• Increased heart rate
• High blood pressure
• Abnormal heartbeat
• Delirium
• Psychosis
• Seizures

Don’t Take It for the Side Effects

Some people engage in recreational drug use because they hope it will make them feel happy and excited. Benadryl doesn’t elevate the mood, provide a burst of energy or give feelings of euphoria. Instead, it can make a person feel jittery, unsettled and confused. It’s dangerous to try to get high on Benadryl because the drug affects the body in other ways that can be damaging and even fatal.

Factors such as other drugs and the time it takes to metabolize Benadryl can cause you to take a more dangerous dose than you realize. Diphenhydramine affects the body’s organs, especially the liver, and it can cause permanent damage to the kidneys, where it’s processed and eliminated from the body.

Help Is Available

If you’re dependent on Benadryl or any other drug, help is available. A drug treatment program can help you understand the root of the compulsion to abuse medications. FHE Health provides a nonjudgmental, safe place to explore your issues and learn how to make changes. Our compassionate health care professionals are available to work with you one-on-one and in a group setting. Call (844) 299-0618 today, and let us help you start to recover.

https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-warns-about-serious-problems-high-doses-allergy-medicine-diphenhydramine-benadryl

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325169#side-effects

BENADRYL ALLERGY LIQUID (Diphenhydramine) Dosage & Rx Info, Uses | BENADRYL ALLERGY LIQUID Side Effects

Drugs » Allergic Disorders

Allergies:

Indications for BENADRYL ALLERGY LIQUID:

Symptoms of upper respiratory allergies. Rhinorrhea/sneezing due to common cold.

Adult Dosage:

25–50mg every 4–6hrs; max 300mg/day.

Children Dosage:

<6yrs: individualize. 6–12yrs: 12.5–25mg every 4–6hrs; max 150mg/day.

BENADRYL ALLERGY LIQUID Contraindications:

Neonates. Premature infants. Acute asthma. Concomitant diphenhydramine products (including topicals).

BENADRYL ALLERGY LIQUID Warnings/Precautions:

Asthma and lower respiratory disorders. Glaucoma. Hyperthyroidism. Hypertension. Cardiovascular disease. GI or urinary obstruction. Sodium-restricted diet. Children. Pregnancy (Cat.B in 3^rd trimester): not recommended. Nursing mothers.

BENADRYL ALLERGY LIQUID Classification:

BENADRYL ALLERGY LIQUID Interactions:

Potentiates CNS depression with alcohol, other CNS depressants. Potentiates anticholinergic effects with MAOIs.

Adverse Reactions:

Drowsiness, dizziness, anticholinergic effects, excitability in children.

How Supplied:

Caps—24, 48; Tabs—24, 48, 100; Dye-free softgels—24; Allergy Liq—4oz, 8oz; Dye-free Liq—4oz; Inj—contact supplier

Benadryl for cats – Behavior

Benadryl is a medicine sometimes recommended for cats. It is usually very safe to give, but it is important to know what Benadryl is, exactly how much to give your cat, and when to know if your cat needs Benadryl.

What is Benadryl?

Benadryl is a brand name for a drug called diphenhydramine hydrochloride. Benadryl is an over-the-counter antihistamine so it doesn’t require a prescription.This antihistamine can be purchased as tablets, capsules, liquid gels, and even liquid in multiple doses or milligrams depending on your needs. Benadryl is sometimes combined with other medications that can be harmful to your cat. As such, you need to read the packaging carefully when purchasing the drug to ensure that diphenhydramine, the active ingredient in Benadryl, is the only drug in the product you are buying for your cat. A generic diphenhydramine is also available, as well as a faster-acting injectable form that your veterinarian will have.

How does Benadryl work?

Since it is an antihistamine, Benadryl blocks the release of histamine and acetylcholine into the body. These chemicals are released in the body in response to an allergic reaction not only in cats, but also in humans, dogs and other animals. Benadryl relieves the symptoms of an allergic reaction or allergy by drying up watery eyes and runny nose, and reduces swelling, sneezing, itching and more.

What to treat with Benadryl

Cats that may need Benadryl are usually allergic to vaccines or travel by car or plane, but there are other reasons your cat might be advised to take it.Some specific Benadryl use cases:

• When a cat is stung or bitten by an insect such as a bee or scorpion.
• When a cat is bitten by a venomous reptile such as a snake.
• When a cat itches or scratches from environmental or food allergies. Flea allergic dermatitis is a common problem in cats, and Benadryl is often recommended.
• When a cat travels and may experience motion sickness.This will help prevent your cat from vomiting.
• When a cat needs to do something to make it fall asleep a little, for example, when traveling, so that it does not lose patience, does not get bored and does not cry when it needs to be calm and quiet.
• When pretreatment with an antihistamine is required prior to vaccination known to cause an allergic reaction in this cat. Reactions to vaccines are not common, but if they occur or have occurred in your cat in the past, Benadryl will be given.

If you have a cat, you should have some Benadryl handy in your pet medicine cabinet, even if you never plan to travel with it or has no known allergies. It is difficult, if not impossible, to predict when an insect will bite your cat and trigger an allergic reaction. If you have Benadryl, you can reduce the allergic response your cat will experience by giving your cat a dose.

However, some allergic reactions can be fatal.Some cats react so strongly to insects or venomous reptiles that they cannot breathe without antihistamines such as benadryl, and immediate veterinary attention is needed. This is especially true for brachycephalic or “swarthy” breeds, such as the Persians, which have already naturally compromised the airways without the additional narrowing of the airways that could cause an allergic reaction.

What not to use Benadryl for

Benadryl can help with a variety of situations in your cat, but that doesn’t mean it’s safe for every cat.Some examples of when a cat should not take Benadryl include:

• If you have a cat with severe stress or anxiety and want to get her to sleep. His anxiety and stress need to be addressed and treated, not just calmed down with Benadryl.
• If your cat has heart disease, check with your veterinarian before giving Benadryl.
• If your cat has high blood pressure, check with your veterinarian before giving Benadryl.
• If your cat has glaucoma, check with your veterinarian before giving Benadryl.
• If your cat is taking certain medications, you should discuss the safety of using Benadryl in your cat with your veterinarian prior to administering it.
• Benadryl is not the only remedy for a venomous reptile or insect bite. Your cat needs immediate veterinary attention.

Benadryl dosage for cats

Typically, cats take 1 mg of Benadryl for each pound of body weight two to three times a day.This means that a 12.5 lb cat will take half a 25 mg Benadryl tablet up to three times daily, depending on your veterinarian’s recommendation. It is easier for cats up to 12.5 lbs to dose using Benadryl Baby Fluid as it can be dosed more accurately.

Potential side effects and risks of Benadryl

Benadryl may cause drowsiness, dry mouth, or urinary retention and potentially cause gastrointestinal distress such as diarrhea and / or vomiting.In cats, it can also cause the opposite of what it is used for. This is called a paradoxical effect, and the result of this effect is usually a very agitated or nervous cat.

Benadryl overdose

Benadryl is generally extremely safe, but giving too much to your cat can cause lethargy or agitation. From time to time, the cat may develop dry mouth, respiratory depression, seizures, coma, or even death if given in large quantities.

You should always talk to your veterinarian before giving your cat any type of medication or supplement.

If you suspect your pet is sick, call your veterinarian immediately. Always consult your veterinarian for health-related issues, as he has examined your pet, knows his health history and can give the best advice for your pet.
90,000 Benadryl for dogs: dosage, side effects

Benadryl is an over-the-counter antihistamine with anticholinergic and sedative effects used to combat allergy symptoms in dogs.

Benadryl is the name of the brand, not the drug itself. The active ingredient in the drug, diphenhydramine, helps prevent the absorption of histamine (the substance responsible for allergic reactions) into receptors in the body and relieves allergic symptoms.

How is Benadryl used for dogs?

Benadryl for dogs is most often used for the treatment of allergies and insect bites, its use depends on the active ingredient contained in the preparation.The active ingredients are diphenhydramine and cetirizine.

Note: you must read the packaging to see which active ingredients are in the product, the main ingredients are usually clearly displayed on the front and back of the box.

Diphenhydramine

Allergies and reactions to vaccines

Histamine is a substance responsible for allergic reactions.

When the body detects an allergen, it releases histamine, which picks up receptors in the body and provokes allergy symptoms.Accordingly, by helping to prevent the absorption of histamine receptors by diphenhydramine, allergy symptoms can be avoided.

Insomnia

Owners should be aware that drowsiness is a common side effect of diphenhydramine, which is why it is also the active ingredient in many popular sleeping pills.

Vomiting and motion sickness

Diphenhydramine is very similar to dimensionhydratin, the active ingredient in Dramamine, which helps prevent nausea when traveling.

Against insect bites

Using an antihistamine such as diphenhydramine may help reduce the discomfort of insect bites.

Bites from certain creatures, such as bees, can also release histamine. Using diphenhydramine can help reduce discomfort and swelling. Be careful, however, if the dog is very sensitive to the poison, the airway may become narrowed. Trying to give the medicine by mouth at this point can be dangerous.

Alarm

The sedative properties of the drug help the dog stay calm in situations that would normally make him nervous, such as fireworks or veterinarian visits.

Itching

Diphenhydramine can be used to treat pruritus associated with dermatitis. The drug has mild anesthetic properties that help relieve itching.

Tumors

Not used to treat tumors, but may reduce the harmful effects associated with increased histamine release in the body.It helps control blood pressure and lack of appetite.

Cetirizine

Cetirizine is most commonly used to treat skin allergies:

• allergic dermatitis,
• atopic dermatitis.

Natural remedies

Benadryl is a safe drug when used correctly, but it has some risks, complications and side effects that can be avoided by using analogs such as:

Anxietrex – is absolutely safe, relieves anxiety in dogs.Contains no side effects and is suitable for animals of all ages.

Derma-Ionx – With zero side effects Derma-Ionx treats skin irritation (including allergic conditions) and itching in dogs of all ages.

Recommended dosage

Note: cases where the only active ingredient contained in Benadryl is diphenhydramine.

The usual dose of Benadryl for dogs is 2.2 mg / kg every 8-12 hours (two to three times a day).In some situations (for example, after a snakebite) 4.4 mg / kg may be prescribed.

Do not exceed the duration of the course of treatment recommended by your veterinarian, as dosage can depend on many factors, including your dog’s medical history. It is important to determine the cause of the symptoms before taking the medicine.

When treating a small dog, it is advisable to use a pediatric treatment formula that contains a lower amount of the active ingredient.

With long-term treatment (which is often the case with allergies), the effectiveness of Benadryl may decrease, so in this case it is best to take other antihistamines.Cetirizine, Loratadine, and Chlorpheniramine are antihistamines that have been shown to be beneficial for treating allergies.

Diphenhydramine is administered orally (tablets, liquid form), or intravenously, intramuscularly, subcutaneously (at a standard dosage of 0.55 to 1.98 mg / kg).

How long does it take for the medicine to work?

It takes about 30 minutes for the preparation to have an appropriate effect on the body. The medication is prescribed 30 minutes before the stressful situation is expected.

Solution

When using Benadryl in liquid form, it is preferable to use liquid forms for children, they do not contain dye, alcohol or xylitol. At a standard concentration of the solution, each 5 ml contains 12.5 mg of diphenhydramine and is recommended at a dose of 0.9 ml / kg.

Unfortunately, most dogs do not like the taste of liquid Benadryl, so it is worth using tablets if possible.

Actual

Benadryl is also available as a cream, gel, or spray, usually containing 1% diphenhydramine, which can be applied topically 2 to 3 times a day.The local anesthetic properties of the drug can help relieve itching.

Warning: Avoid taking Benadryl for pruritus, which contains camphor, as this substance is toxic to dogs.

Example: a dog weighing 11 kg is prescribed 25 mg Benadryl up to three times a day.

Other active ingredients

Cetirizine

Preparations containing cetirizine are indicated for use in the treatment of dermatitis.The dosage per day is usually as follows:

Because cetirizine rarely causes sedation, it is not as effective in relieving anxiety during stressful situations.

Acrivastin preparations

Acrivastine preparations contain pseudoephedrine, which can be dangerous in high doses. For this reason, products containing acrivastine should be avoided.

Can I give my dog ​​Benadryl?

When Benadryl is used in dogs, the tablets are the most commonly used form of the drug containing diphenhydramine.

It is important to avoid the use of liquid forms containing ingredients not suitable for dogs (colorant, xylitol, alcohol).

Cetirizine is sometimes prescribed by veterinarians to treat pruritus. Dogs with kidney or liver disease are at a higher risk of complications.

Diphenhydramine is most commonly used to treat allergies, anxiety, and motion sickness. Exercise caution and inform your veterinarian when using this active ingredient if your dog suffers from any of the following conditions:

• angle closure glaucoma,
• COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease),
• enlarged prostate,
• heart disease,
• high pressure,
• hyperthyroidism (a disease caused by an increase in the function of the thyroid gland),
• attacks,
• clouding of urine.

Recommendations for use

Always consult your veterinarian before giving medication to your pet.

Do not use drugs that interact with diphenhydramine, they are not safe for dogs (eg Tylenol).

Avoid use with other anticholinergics (including tricyclic antidepressants) as this can lead to toxic symptoms. The combination of diphenhydramine with antidepressants produces a stronger sedative effect.

Pregnancy and care

Diphenhydramine is not recommended during pregnancy. The drug should be avoided or used with caution in lactating dogs, especially with newborn puppies, as the drug is transmitted in milk.

Side effects

Drowsiness is very common with diphenhydramine, but with continued use, drowsiness decreases over time. However, sedative properties can affect the performance of dogs.In rare cases, it can cause psychomotor agitation.

Dogs receiving diphenhydramine may experience a number of adverse effects. They are characterized by strange behavior, which seems a little “absent-minded”.

The following side effects have been reported in animals:

general:

• drowsiness,
• dry mouth,
• urinary retention,
• sluggish reactions;

rare:

• diarrhea,
• vomiting,
• no appetite,
• allergic reaction,
• excitement.

If serious side effects begin to develop, such as an allergic reaction, seek veterinary attention. Watch for common allergy symptoms such as itching, difficulty breathing, rashes, hives, heart palpitations, and sneezing.

Overdose

Overdose can be dangerous in the treatment of allergies, anxiety and a number of other conditions. Overdose symptoms may include fast or irregular heartbeat, difficulty breathing, excessive fatigue, confusion, and high fever.High blood pressure is also possible after an overdose, which can lead to seizures and confusion.

90,000 Dosage Guide, Side Effects & Tips – Animal Expert Site – HowMeow

You may have heard of the use of benadryl in humans as it is a popular antihistamine. Dogs can also be allergic as well as their caregivers, so you shouldn’t be alarmed if your veterinarian has prescribed benadryl for your pet, as it is one of the over-the-counter medications dogs can take.At HowMeow.com we want to give you a complete guide to Benadryl for Dogs so you can learn how to give them the right amount, what side effects you have for your dog and the most common questions users ask.

When should dogs take Benadryl?

Benadryl is a brand name for diphenhydramine is an antihistamine that works by blocking H-1 receptors, which are histamine receptors and are responsible for the production of inflammation caused by allergies.

Your veterinarian will prescribe benadryl for your dog in a variety of situations, the most common of which are:

• Allergy Symptom Relief in Dogs This medicine can help reduce the most common allergy symptoms such as itching, hives, swelling, redness, runny nose and eyes, coughing, sneezing, anaphylactic reactions. This is the most common use of benadryl for dogs. In this sense, it can also be used after a bad reaction to an insect bite or bite….
• Decrease in tumor cells Dogs with a large number of tumor cells have a large release of histamine caused by degranulation of mast cells. Diphenhydramine or benadryl may help mitigate the effects of your release.
• As part of the treatment of heartworm : This medication may be prescribed by veterinarians from time to time to prevent allergic reactions that sometimes accompany this condition.
• Insomnia although melatonin is commonly used to treat sleep problems in dogs.Benadryl can also be prescribed for this purpose by a veterinarian in special cases.
• Traveler’s Disease : A veterinarian may prescribe diphenhydramine for dogs suffering from travel dizziness as it is very similar in content to dimensionhydrinate.
• Anxiety Again, this is not the most prescribed treatment, but in some cases when the dog is suffering from anxiety, the veterinarian may also suggest using this medication due to its sedative properties to calm the canine nerves …

Note that although it is usually prescribed by veterinarians, this medication has not yet been approved for veterinary use by the FDA.

Can you give your dog benadryl to calm them down ??

As we will explain in more detail later, one of the side effects of benadryl is drowsiness, so it can calm the dog and make him feel numb. Many people are aware of this effect, so they think it might be a good way to calm down a nervous dog. However, it is not recommended to treat dog without the prior consent of your veterinarian.

Dog anxiety should be treated by their veterinarian, and only in severe cases is any medication prescribed….

When not to give your dog Benadryl

It is also important to know when it is unsafe to give benadryl to your dog, as it is contraindicated under the following conditions:

• Glaucoma While you might think red eyes in dogs are a symptom of an allergy, it could also indicate glaucoma, a condition that can get worse if you give your dog Benadryl.
• Pregnancy Dogs currently awaiting or breastfeeding should not receive this medication under any circumstances as it may affect the health of newborn puppies …
• When you use other drugs : If your dog is prescribed any other forms of anticholinergic drugs, you should not combine them with diphenhydramine as this can cause toxic symptoms …
• Depression : The sedative effect of this medication may worsen your dog’s depression, especially if you are also receiving medication for this condition …
• Enlarged prostate
• Hyperthyroidism

How much Benadryl should I give a dog ??

You should only give benadryl to your dog and not any of its other products, such as benadryl sinus or benadryl itch refreshing gel, because it may contain ingredients such as xylitol, camphor, Tylenol or alcohol that are harmful to your dog.There are different forms of benadryl and although you can use them in tablets and liquid form, you should never give them extended-release capsules (pictured above) due to absorption by the dog’s body. After the veterinarian has indicated the exact medication and has listened carefully to your instructions, you can start giving this medication to your dog, but in the correct amount …

The vet should indicate the correct amount of benadryl to give your dog based on his condition, although the guidelines say he should give your dog 2-4 mg per kilogram (1-2 mg per pound) your dog weighs.For example, how much benadryl is for a 10 pound dog ? The response is between 10 and 20 mg per dose. It should be administered to your dog two or three times a day, or every 8-12 hours.

In liquid form, it is recommended that you give your dog no more than 0.4 ml per pound your dog weighs. If your dog weighs 10 pounds, you should give him 4 ml of liquid benadryl.

Benadryl and other forms of diphenhydramine can also be used topically as a local anesthetic to relieve pruritus in dogs.In this case, the use of this medication in cream or gel is also indicated. In this case, apply in the area two or three times a day.

Remember, the dose will depend on the form of benadryl prescribed by your veterinarian and your own condition.

How long does Benadryl take to work with dogs ???

Benadryl’s effects usually begin 90,087 30 minutes after your dog has taken 90,088 that. When using this medication to prevent motion sickness, you must give this medication to your dog 20 minutes before starting your trip….

You should leave the gels on the dog for 10 minutes if you apply them while bathing the dog with shampoo for ideal results.

Benadryl side effects in dogs

In addition to the above mentioned contraindications, even if your dog does not have these conditions, Benadryl has certain side effects that your dog may have …

Usually you will notice that your dog is behaving strangely, with slow reflexes.This is because the most common side effects of benadryl’s are:

• Drowsiness and drowsiness.
• Dry mouth (you will notice that your dog wants to drink a lot of water)
• Urinary retention
• Slow or slow reactions

There are also 90,087 less common symptoms this can happen to your dog, but it can also be seen if you gave your dog benadryl:

• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Lack of appetite
• Allergy (if you notice allergy symptoms, you must take the dog to the vet immediately)

Give your dog a higher dose of than what was prescribed, could put them in danger.If you accidentally give your dog a higher dose, you should take it to your veterinarian immediately, especially if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• Tremor
• Rapid strikes
• Respiratory distress
• Fatigue
• Confusion
• Convulsions
• High temperature

Benadryl alternatives for dogs

If your dog cannot take benadryl or wants a more natural alternative, you can also use the other alternative medicines to treat your dog .

For example, if you are using benadryl for anxiety in your dog, anxietrex is safe and has no side effects. Remember to always use it with your veterinarian’s prescription.

On the other hand, you can use derma-lonx for skin irritation and allergic reactions, as it also has no side effects. At HowMeow.com we would also like to suggest some homeopathic treatments for dog allergies that may be beneficial to your pet when combined with treatment …

This article is for informational purposes only.HowMeow.ru has no right to prescribe veterinary treatment or diagnose. We invite you to take your pet to the vet if you are suffering from any illness or pain.

90,000: Technology and media :: RBK

Photo: Peter Byrne / PA Wire / PA Images / TASS

Roskomnadzor will block videos on the TikTok social network in Russia with calls to take the drug Benadryl for allergies.This is reported by TASS with reference to the statement of the department in response to the appeal of the State Duma deputy, member of the health protection committee Boris Mendelevich.

Based on the results of the analysis, the information about the challenge, indicated in the deputy’s letter, was revealed on 20 Internet pages of the TikTok social network and sent to Rosmolodezh for making a decision.

“If Rosmolodezh recognizes this information as prohibited for distribution, access to it will be limited on the territory of the Russian Federation in accordance with the established procedure,” the letter says.

In turn, Rosmolodezh admitted that the corresponding videos on TikTok “pose a threat to the life and health of minors.” The agency promised to make a decision to restrict the distribution of videos on the territory of the Russian Federation.

Boris Mendelevich asked to block videos containing calls to use the drug in early August.

As noted by the deputy, the challenge launched in the United States called for taking large doses of the drug Benadryl to induce hallucinations.The parliamentarian also pointed out that the drug is a brand name for a number of antihistamines that can cause heart palpitations and arrhythmias, as well as hallucinations and seizures. According to him, in some cases, the consequences of uncontrolled drug intake can only be prevented with medical intervention.

Challenge was launched under the hashtag Benadryl in the English-speaking segment of TikTok.

According to Dazed, three teenagers were hospitalized after taking the drug in Texas.One of them, 14-year-old Rebecca, said that she took 14 tablets of medication, after which she began to hallucinate, and her pulse increased to 199 beats per minute.

90,000 Russia will ban the challenge on TikTok: all because of the drug

In Russia, some videos on TikTok will be blocked. 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 are talking about a challenge in which you do not need to participate.

Roskomnadzor will be responsible for blocking 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 high doses of an allergy drug called Benadryl to induce hallucinations. Boris Mendelevich, a member of the State Duma Committee on Health Protection, turned to the department with a request to remove this kind of content from the Russian Internet if possible.

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

Not only Mendelevich and Roskomnadzor considered the content dangerous, but also Rosmolodezh. “Video recordings on the above links pose a threat to the life and health of minors,” the organization said in a letter, RIA Novosti reports.

Mad Challenge

Tiktokers named the challenge #Benadryl.As part of this competition, users drink large amounts of the allergy medicine Benadryl 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 grown to six million.

“After taking Benadryl, I see people in my room”

This challenge really has negative consequences. At least three teenagers were sent to the hospital in May.Everyone went to 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 is despite the fact that the drug is sold for some reason without a prescription.

“Excessive amounts of diphenhydramine (the active ingredient is Benadryl – ed.) Can cause heart palpitations and arrhythmias, as well as hallucinations and convulsions. In addition, overdose can cause urinary retention, so a urinary catheter may be required for treatment, ”said Nurse Amber Jevison.

Among the victims of “Benadryl” was 14-year-old blogger Rebecca. She took 14 tablets of the drug. The girl developed hallucinations, her speech became abrupt, and her pulse rose to 199 beats per minute (at a rate of 65 to 90).

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

Benadryl has a 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 the effect on the central nervous system), loss of coordination, dry mouth, indigestion, dry eyes, blurred vision, hangover.And this is only a part of those negative phenomena that may arise when taking Benadryl.

Benadryl for Dogs – How to Create a Happy Home for Your Pet.

Benadryl is often recommended for dogs. It can be administered safely to most, but it is important to know what Benadryl is, how much to give your dog, and when to know if your dog should take it.

What is Benadryl?

Benadryl is actually a brand name of a drug called diphenhydramine hydrochloride.Benadryl is an antihistamine and does not require a prescription. It comes in tablets, capsules, and liquid gels in multiple doses or milligrams. It is sometimes combined with other medications, so you need to read the package carefully to ensure that diphenhydramine is the only drug in the product you are buying for your dog.

How does Benadryl work?

As an antihistamine, Benadryl works by blocking the release of histamine and acetylcholine, which the body produces in response to an allergic reaction.Benadryl dries watery eyes, runny nose, reduces swelling, sneezing, itching and other allergy symptoms. It is also often used to make the dog sleepy or to help with motion sickness.

What to treat with Benadryl

Dogs that benefit from Benadryl are usually allergic or traveling. Some specific Benadryl use cases:

• When a dog is bitten or bitten by an insect.
• When a dog is bitten by a venomous reptile or insect.
• When a dog itches or scratches from environmental or food allergies.
• When the dog is traveling and may experience motion sickness.
• When a dog needs to do something to make it fall asleep a little, so that it does not lose patience, does not get bored and does not bark when it needs to be calm and quiet.
• When an antihistamine pretreatment is required prior to vaccination known to cause an allergic reaction in this dog.

Benadryl is great to have on hand if you have a dog, even if you never plan to travel with it or has no known allergies. You never know if a spider or a bee will bite your dog while at home, and you will need to give him some Benadryl to prevent or reduce an allergic reaction. Some dogs react so strongly to insects or venomous reptiles that they cannot breathe without antihistamines and immediate veterinary attention.If you can give a dog that has been bitten by a snake or stung by an insect at home Benadryl, you increase the likelihood that it will reach the vet alive and still breathing. This is especially true of brachycephalic breeds such as English Bulldogs and Pugs, which have already naturally compromised the airways without the additional narrowing of the airways that could cause an allergic reaction.

What not to use Benadryl for

Benadryl can help with allergic reactions, motion sickness and drowsiness, but this does not mean that it is always advisable to use it.Here are some reasons why you might not want to use Benadryl:

• If you have a very stressful or anxious dog and want him to fall asleep. His anxiety and stress need to be addressed and treated, not just calmed down with Benadryl.
• If your dog has heart disease.
• If your dog has high blood pressure.
• If your dog has glaucoma.
• If your dog is taking certain medications, you should discuss the safety of Benadryl with your veterinarian prior to prescribing it.
• As the only remedy after a poisonous bite. Your dog needs immediate veterinary attention.

Your veterinarian is the best source of advice and information for your dog’s health. If you are planning to give your dog Benadryl, then first ask your veterinarian to make sure you are not doing more harm than good.

Benadryl dosage for dogs

Typically, dogs take 1 mg benadryl for each pound of body weight two to three times a day.This means a 25 pound dog will take one 25 mg Benadryl tablet three times daily depending on your veterinarian’s recommendation. Small dogs find it easier to dose Benadryl baby liquid.

Potential Side Effects and Risks of Benadryl

Benadryl may make your dog very sleepy, cause dry mouth or urinary retention, and may cause gastrointestinal distress such as diarrhea and / or vomiting. In cats, this can cause the opposite of what it is used for – a so-called paradoxical effect – and you can see excitement.

Benadryl overdose

Benadryl has historically been very safe, but as with everything, too much can be bad. If your pet gets too much Benadryl, he may be very lethargic or very anxious. It can sometimes cause dry mouth, respiratory depression, seizures, coma, or even death when given in large quantities.

How to take antiepileptic drugs (AEDs)

General

Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) reduce the excess excitability of brain cells, preventing the development of epileptic seizures.The effect of AEDs depends on their concentration in the blood, so the drug should be taken daily. Most modern AEDs need to be taken 2 times a day (morning and evening) to keep their blood concentration stable.

How to increase the dose of the drug?

The slower the dose is escalated, the lower the risk of side effects. Usually they start with ½ or 1 tablet in the evening, after a few days add ½ or 1 tablet in the morning, and so on, bringing the dose to therapeutic.

What to do if I miss a dose?

For such cases, drugs have been developed that must be taken 2 times a day.If you forget to take your morning dose and remember about it a few hours later, feel free to take it. If you remember about the forgotten dose only in the evening, do not drink the morning + evening dose. Drink only in the evening and do not forget to take the drug again.

How do I remember to take the drug?

It is necessary to “tie” the intake of the drug to regular events in life, for example: after breakfast and after dinner, after morning and evening walks with the dog, after morning and evening washing.You can use reminders on your mobile phone. If the patient suffers from impaired memory and thinking, relatives should monitor the medication intake. We recommend keeping a seizure diary every day and recording each medication intake.

How to take medicine: before or after meals?

This is not important for modern drugs. However, some of the AEDs can irritate the stomach, so we usually recommend taking it after meals.

How to exchange one drug for another?

The most important rule is to do everything gradually.In most cases, at first, the dose of the “new” drug is gradually increased, then the dose of the “old” drug is also gradually reduced.

How to replace a drug with its analogue of another manufacturer (after all, the active substance is the same there)?

A universal rule – if the body is accustomed to a certain drug of a certain company, then it is better not to change it. However, if there is no other choice (they have stopped giving the drug for free and offer a substitute, but there is no money to buy the old drug), then it is necessary to gradually replace the “old” tablets with “new” ones.If you abruptly quit the “old” ones and start drinking the “new” ones, the risk of developing seizures and side effects is higher.

How dangerous are AEDs to health?

Unfortunately, there are no absolutely safe drugs. In the world, 80% of patients taking AEDs report certain side effects. The more modern the drug, the more side effects are indicated in its instructions for use (the manufacturer indicates them so that it cannot be sued). Side effects can be divided into 3 groups:

A) Reactions of idiosyncrasy (individual intolerance).They develop in the first months after starting the medication. Most often – skin rash, jaundice, severe abdominal pain, bleeding, severe vomiting (there may be other manifestations). Idiosyncrasy appears suddenly, it is impossible to predict it in advance. At risk are patients who have previously had severe adverse reactions to any drugs. If, after the start of taking the medication, any serious disorders appear, you must immediately stop taking it and consult a doctor.

B) Dose-related side effects (they are not present at small doses, but they appear at large doses).Typical examples: drowsiness, double vision, unsteadiness when walking, lethargy, trembling hands, etc. It is not necessary to cancel the drug immediately, the tactics depend on the severity of the side effects and the effectiveness of the drug (if the side effects are weak, and there are no attacks, most likely you will have to put up with them, if the side effects are strong, but the attacks still continue, there is no point in taking the drug). Often, over time, the body “gets used” to such side effects and their severity decreases.

B) Chronic side effects – occur with prolonged use of AED (thickening of the gingival mucosa, weight gain or decrease, hormonal disorders, hearing or vision loss, etc.)). In some cases, after discontinuation of the drug, these side effects may disappear (for example, weight gain or weight loss), in other cases, these side effects are irreversible.

However, prescribing AED is the main treatment for epilepsy worldwide, because epileptic seizures in most cases pose a greater health threat than taking AEDs.