How much Benadryl can you safely take in a day. What are the recommended dosages for adults and children. Are there any risks associated with long-term Benadryl use. What are some alternative antihistamines to consider.

Understanding Benadryl and Its Active Ingredient

Benadryl is a popular over-the-counter antihistamine medication used to treat allergy symptoms and aid sleep. Its active ingredient is diphenhydramine, a first-generation antihistamine known for its sedating effects. While effective for short-term use, it’s crucial to understand proper dosage guidelines and potential risks associated with prolonged use.

What is diphenhydramine?

Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine that works by blocking the effects of histamine, a substance produced by the body during allergic reactions. It’s effective in treating symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and skin rashes. However, its sedating properties also make it useful as a sleep aid.

Recommended Benadryl Dosages for Adults

The standard recommended dosage of Benadryl for adults is 25-50 mg every 4-6 hours. However, it’s important not to exceed 300 mg in a 24-hour period. This equates to a maximum of 6 doses of the standard 50 mg strength.

Can you take Benadryl daily?

While Benadryl can be taken daily for short periods, it’s not recommended for long-term use. Prolonged use can lead to tolerance, reduced effectiveness, and potential side effects. If you find yourself needing antihistamines regularly, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional about alternative treatments.

Benadryl Dosage for Children

Benadryl dosage for children is based on weight and age. It’s crucial to follow the guidelines provided on the packaging or consult with a pediatrician before administering Benadryl to children.

• For children 6-11 years: 12.5-25 mg every 4-6 hours (not to exceed 150 mg in 24 hours)
• For children 12 years and older: Adult dosage

It’s important to note that Benadryl is not recommended for children under 6 years of age without medical supervision.

Potential Risks and Side Effects of Benadryl

While Benadryl is generally safe when used as directed, it can cause several side effects, especially in higher doses or with prolonged use.

Common side effects of Benadryl

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Blurred vision
• Constipation
• Difficulty urinating

In rare cases, Benadryl can cause more severe side effects, including rapid heart rate, confusion, and seizures. If you experience any unusual or severe symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

Long-term Effects of Benadryl Use

Regular, long-term use of Benadryl can lead to several health concerns. Recent studies have suggested a potential link between prolonged use of anticholinergic drugs like diphenhydramine and an increased risk of dementia in older adults.

Is long-term Benadryl use safe?

Long-term use of Benadryl is generally not recommended due to potential risks and the development of tolerance. If you find yourself relying on Benadryl regularly, it’s important to discuss alternative treatments with your healthcare provider.

Alternatives to Benadryl for Allergy Relief

For those seeking alternatives to Benadryl, there are several other antihistamines available that may be more suitable for regular use. These include second and third-generation antihistamines that typically cause less drowsiness and have fewer side effects.

Second-generation antihistamines

• Loratadine (Claritin)
• Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
• Fexofenadine (Allegra)

Third-generation antihistamines

• Desloratadine (Clarinex)
• Levocetirizine (Xyzal)

These alternatives are often preferred for daily use as they are less likely to cause drowsiness and have a longer duration of action.

Focus on Loratadine as a Benadryl Alternative

Loratadine, sold under the brand name Claritin, is a popular alternative to Benadryl for allergy relief. It’s a second-generation antihistamine that provides 24-hour relief from allergy symptoms without causing significant drowsiness.

Dosage and administration of loratadine

The standard dosage for loratadine is 10mg once daily for adults and children 12 years and older. For children 6-11 years old, the dosage is 5mg once daily. Loratadine is available in tablet form, as well as a liquid for those who have difficulty swallowing pills.

Benefits of loratadine over Benadryl

• Less sedating
• Longer-lasting (24-hour relief)
• Fewer side effects
• Can be taken daily for extended periods

While loratadine is generally safe for most people, it’s always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication regimen.

When to Seek Medical Advice for Allergy Symptoms

While over-the-counter antihistamines can effectively manage many allergy symptoms, there are instances when it’s important to consult a healthcare provider.

When should you see a doctor for allergies?

• Symptoms persist despite using over-the-counter medications
• Allergies significantly impact your quality of life
• You experience severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
• You’re unsure about drug interactions with other medications you’re taking
• You’re pregnant or breastfeeding

A healthcare provider can help determine the underlying cause of your allergies and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan, which may include prescription medications or immunotherapy.

Natural Alternatives for Allergy Relief

For those seeking non-pharmaceutical options for allergy relief, several natural remedies may help alleviate symptoms. While these methods may not be as potent as antihistamines, they can be effective for mild allergy symptoms and have fewer side effects.

What natural remedies can help with allergies?

• Nasal irrigation with saline solution
• Butterbur supplements
• Quercetin-rich foods (apples, onions, berries)
• Local honey (may help with pollen allergies)
• Essential oils (peppermint, eucalyptus, lavender)
• Probiotics

It’s important to note that while these natural remedies can be helpful, they should not replace medical treatment for severe allergies. Always consult with a healthcare provider before trying new treatments, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking other medications.

Understanding Different Types of Antihistamines

Antihistamines are classified into different generations based on their chemical structure and side effect profile. Understanding these classifications can help in choosing the most appropriate antihistamine for your needs.

What are the differences between first, second, and third-generation antihistamines?

1. First-generation antihistamines (e.g., Benadryl):
   • Cross the blood-brain barrier easily, causing drowsiness
   • Short-acting (4-6 hours)
   • More likely to cause side effects like dry mouth and blurred vision
2. Second-generation antihistamines (e.g., Claritin, Zyrtec):
   • Less likely to cross the blood-brain barrier, causing minimal drowsiness
   • Longer-acting (12-24 hours)
   • Fewer side effects
3. Third-generation antihistamines (e.g., Xyzal):
   • Refined versions of second-generation antihistamines
   • Even less likely to cause drowsiness
   • May have additional anti-inflammatory properties

While first-generation antihistamines like Benadryl are effective for acute allergy symptoms and occasional use, second and third-generation antihistamines are generally preferred for long-term management of allergies due to their improved safety profile and longer duration of action.

Combining Antihistamines with Other Allergy Treatments

For more comprehensive allergy management, antihistamines are often used in conjunction with other treatments. This multi-faceted approach can provide more effective relief, especially for those with moderate to severe allergies.

What other treatments can be combined with antihistamines?

• Nasal corticosteroids: Help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages
• Decongestants: Provide relief from nasal congestion
• Leukotriene modifiers: Block chemicals that cause allergy symptoms
• Immunotherapy (allergy shots or sublingual tablets): Help desensitize the immune system to specific allergens

It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before combining different allergy treatments, as some combinations may increase the risk of side effects or interactions. Your doctor can help develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific allergy symptoms and needs.

Allergy Prevention Strategies

While antihistamines are effective for managing allergy symptoms, preventing exposure to allergens in the first place can significantly reduce the need for medication. Implementing various prevention strategies can help minimize allergy symptoms and improve overall quality of life.

How can you reduce exposure to common allergens?

• Monitor pollen counts and stay indoors when levels are high
• Use air purifiers with HEPA filters in your home
• Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons
• Shower and change clothes after spending time outdoors
• Regularly clean and vacuum your home to reduce dust and pet dander
• Use allergen-proof bedding covers
• Avoid foods that trigger allergic reactions

By combining these prevention strategies with appropriate medication use, many people find they can effectively manage their allergy symptoms and reduce their reliance on antihistamines like Benadryl.

Understanding Antihistamine Tolerance and Effectiveness

One concern with regular antihistamine use is the potential development of tolerance, where the medication becomes less effective over time. This is particularly relevant for first-generation antihistamines like Benadryl.

Can you develop a tolerance to antihistamines?

While true pharmacological tolerance to antihistamines is rare, some people may experience a perceived decrease in effectiveness over time. This is more common with the sedating effects of first-generation antihistamines rather than their anti-allergy properties. Second and third-generation antihistamines are less likely to cause this issue.

How can you maintain antihistamine effectiveness?

• Rotate between different types of antihistamines
• Take breaks from antihistamine use when possible
• Use the lowest effective dose
• Combine antihistamines with other allergy management strategies

If you find that your antihistamine is becoming less effective, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider. They can assess your symptoms and recommend alternative treatments or adjustments to your current regimen.

Special Considerations for Antihistamine Use

While antihistamines are generally safe for most people, there are certain groups who should exercise caution or avoid certain types of antihistamines altogether. Understanding these special considerations is crucial for safe and effective allergy management.

Who should be cautious when using antihistamines?

• Pregnant and breastfeeding women: Should consult with a healthcare provider before using any antihistamine
• Elderly individuals: May be more susceptible to side effects, especially from first-generation antihistamines
• People with certain medical conditions:
  • Glaucoma
  • Enlarged prostate
  • Heart problems
  • High blood pressure
  • Thyroid disorders
• Those taking other medications: Antihistamines can interact with various drugs, including some antidepressants and antifungal medications

Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you’re taking, as well as any existing health conditions, before starting a new antihistamine regimen.

The Future of Allergy Treatment

As our understanding of allergies and the immune system continues to evolve, new treatments and approaches to allergy management are being developed. These advancements promise more targeted and effective allergy relief with fewer side effects.

What new allergy treatments are on the horizon?

• Biologics: Targeted therapies that block specific components of the allergic response
• Personalized immunotherapy: Tailored treatments based on an individual’s specific allergy profile
• Nasal filters: Physical barriers that prevent allergens from entering the nasal passages
• Gene therapy: Potential future treatments that could modify the genetic basis of allergic responses

While these new treatments are promising, many are still in development or only available for severe cases. For most people, a combination of existing antihistamines, other medications, and preventive strategies remains the most effective approach to allergy management.

In conclusion, while Benadryl can be an effective short-term solution for allergy symptoms, it’s important to use it responsibly and within recommended dosage guidelines. For those requiring long-term allergy management, newer antihistamines like loratadine or other treatment options may be more suitable. Always consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best approach for your individual needs and to ensure safe and effective allergy relief.

Loratadine (Clarityn): antihistamine that relieves allergy symptoms

If you or your child have been prescribed loratadine, follow your doctor’s instructions about how and when to take it.

If you’ve bought loratadine from a pharmacy or shop, follow the instructions that come with the packet.

Dosage

Loratadine comes as 10mg tablets and as a liquid medicine (labelled either 5mg/5ml or 1mg/1ml).

The usual dose in adults is 10mg once a day.

Doses are usually lower for people with liver problems.

For children, your doctor will use your child’s weight or age to work out the right dose. Children aged between 6 and 12 years can only take loratadine tablets if they weigh more than 30kg. Give children loratadine liquid instead of tablets if they are under 6 or weigh 30kg or less.

How to take it

Loratadine comes as 2 different types of tablet: ordinary and melt-in-the-mouth tablets.

Swallow ordinary loratadine tablets with a drink of water, milk or juice. If the tablet has a score line across the middle, you can break it in half if you find it hard to swallow it whole. Do not chew it.

Melt-in-the-mouth tablets dissolve instantly on your tongue without needing a drink. Be careful not to crush them when you take them out of the packet.

You can take loratadine with or without food.

Loratadine liquid may be easier for children to take than tablets. The medicine will come with a plastic syringe or spoon to help you measure out the right dose. If you do not have a syringe or spoon, ask your pharmacist for one. Do not use a kitchen teaspoon as it will not measure the right amount.

When to take it

You may only need to take loratadine on a day when you have symptoms, for instance if you’ve been exposed to a trigger such as animal hair. Or you may need to take it regularly to prevent symptoms, such as hay fever during spring and summer.

Try to take loratadine at about the same time every day. Choose a time that is easy to remember.

What if I forget to take it?

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s nearly time for your next dose. In this case, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time.

Do not take 2 doses to make up for a forgotten dose.

If you often forget doses, it may help to set an alarm to remind you. You could also ask your pharmacist for advice on other ways to help you remember to take your medicine.

What if I take too much?

Loratadine is generally very safe. If you or your child take too much, it is unlikely to harm you.

Antihistamines – familydoctor.

org

Antihistamines are medicines that help stop allergy symptoms. These symptoms include:

• Itchy eyes.
• Sneezing.
• Runny nose or congestion.
• Skin rashes such as hives.

They are normally taken by mouth. They come in tablets, capsules, chewable tablets, and liquids. Many people buy them over the counter (OTC) at a store. You can also get them through a prescription from your doctor.

Antihistamines are generally considered safe for most people. This includes adults, children over the age of 2, and older people. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, ask your doctor if antihistamines are safe for you. Ask your doctor if you can take antihistamines if you have a chronic disease or condition. This includes heart disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure.

Path to improved health

You can take antihistamines in different ways depending on your symptoms. Some people take them only when they have symptoms. Others experience symptoms every day, so they take the antihistamine every day. Sometimes people take them before they are going to be exposed to something they are allergic to. This could include an animal (such as cats or dogs) or certain kinds of plants or flowers.

There are many different brands of antihistamines that you can buy over the counter. Some work in different ways. For example, some are designed to work for 4 to 6 hours. Others last for 12 to 24 hours. Make sure you read the label carefully. Follow the directions for how often to take the antihistamine.

Ask your doctor which OTC antihistamine is best for you based on your symptoms.

If you have severe allergies or allergies that affect you year-round, tell you doctor. It could be that you need a prescription allergy medication. The difference between these at OTCs is that prescription antihistamines can come in higher doses.

Things to consider

Like most medicines, antihistamines can cause side effects. The most common include:

• Drowsiness.
• Dizziness.
• Dry mouth.
• Blurry vision.
• Decreased appetite.
• Feeling nervous, irritable, or excited.

Some types of antihistamines can cause sleepiness. Do not drink alcohol when taking antihistamines.

Can I take my prescription antihistamine with other medicines?

You shouldn’t take prescription antihistamines if you also are taking certain other prescription medicines. These include erythromycin (an antibiotic) or certain medicines used to treat fungal infections. These include itraconazole or ketoconazole. When your doctor gives you a prescription, always ask if it’s safe to use with the other medicines you’re taking. Your pharmacist can also tell you what is safe to take. If you aren’t sure, ask the pharmacist or your doctor before taking another medicine.

Can I share my prescription antihistamines with friends who have allergies?

No. Even if your friend has a similar allergy, do not share your medicine. You should never share a prescription medicine with another person. Your doctor has examined you and has picked a medicine that is right only for your problem. Some antihistamines can cause serious side effects if they are given to people who are taking another medicine, or who should not take antihistamines for another reason.

Questions to ask your doctor

• Do I need an antihistamine?
• Can I take one over the counter, or do I need a prescription?
• Which over-the-counter type of antihistamine is the best for my symptoms?
• What are the side effects of this type or brand?
• Is there anything I should avoid doing while I’m taking an antihistamine?
• How long should I take it?

Copyright © American Academy of Family Physicians

This information provides a general overview and may not apply to everyone. Talk to your family doctor to find out if this information applies to you and to get more information on this subject.

Taking Benadryl While Pregnant: What You Need to Know

When you’re pregnant, you may have questions about the safety of certain medications, including medications available over-the-counter. Many over-the-counter medications are considered safe during pregnancy, while others aren’t. One medicine commonly used is Benadryl. However, is Benadryl safe to take while pregnant? In general, can you take allergy medicine while pregnant? Benadryl is a brand-name allergy medication, and it’s classified as an antihistamine. The active ingredient in Benadryl is called diphenhydramine. Diphenhydramine can help with symptoms of not only allergies but also a cold and hay fever. Some of the symptoms people might use Benadryl for can include itchy, watery eyes and nose, a cough and sneezing. In some cases, the active ingredient in Benadryl is also used to help people who struggle with nausea, vomiting and motion sickness. Benadryl and other similar allergy medicines are available as liquids, tablets or capsules.

When someone is pregnant, they may have a weaker immune system than normal. This could leave pregnant women more vulnerable to certain allergies and illnesses that they might consider treating with Benadryl. For the most part, Benadryl is considered safe to take during pregnancy. However, no medication, over-the-counter or otherwise, should be used without consulting a medical professional first. It’s also important to follow dosage instructions very carefully when using Benadryl. Benadryl dosage recommendations usually instruct taking it every four to six hours as needed. Side effects of Benadryl can include drowsiness and dizziness. It’s important to be aware of these possible side effects to avoid driving or doing other things that could be dangerous if drowsiness occurs. Benadryl can have sedative effects, and it can also cause symptoms such as feeling lightheaded, blurry vision and nervousness.

Medical Disclaimer: The Recovery Village aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with a substance use or mental health disorder with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider.

Taking Benadryl While Pregnant: Safety and Dosage

• You can take the same dose of Benadryl while pregnant as you would normally. 
• For standard Benadryl, that means no more than 1 to 2 tablets every 4 to 6 hours. 
• Recent studies have since found no connection between antihistamines and birth defects.
• Visit Insider’s Health Reference library for more advice.

While some information suggests that it’s important to avoid all medication while pregnant, Martha Rac, MD, says this is not the case.

“Certain medications, if used properly, can not only make the pregnancy more tolerable but also improve outcomes,” says Rac, an assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the Baylor College of Medicine.

One of those medications is Benadryl. “Benadryl is safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding,” Rac says.

Benadryl can treat more than just allergies

The generic name for Benadryl is diphenhydramine, which is sold under a number of brand names. You don’t need a prescription to get Benadryl or other diphenhydramine-containing medicine as they are over the counter.

Your obstetrician may suggest Benadryl if you are pregnant and suffering from: 

Just make sure to follow the instructions and don’t exceed the maximum daily dose, Rac adds.

When you’re pregnant you can take the same dose of Benadryl as before pregnancy. For standard Benadryl, that means no more than 1 to 2 tablets every 4 to 6 hours for an adult.

Benadryl is a type of antihistamine, meaning it works by blocking the molecular signal known as histamine. Your body releases histamine when it’s suffering from an allergic reaction, which is why Benadryl is often used to treat allergic conditions.

Benadryl does not cause birth defects

Some small older studies suggested that taking Benadryl the first trimester of pregnancy could lead to a slightly higher risk of birth defects. But larger and more thorough studies have since found no connection between antihistamines and birth defects, Rac says.

For one 2013 study, published in Allergy and Clinical Immunology, researchers examined 20,000 infants — 13,213 with malformations at birth and 6,982 without. They then looked at which mothers used antihistamines in their first trimester and found no significant correlation between that and malformations in newborns.

How to tell which medications are safe during pregnancy

“[Benadryl] is a category B medication, which means no evidence of risk in human pregnancies is known,” says Rac.

“B” is one of the five categories created by the US Food and Drug Administration to classify medications according to the risk they pose to a developing fetus. While drugs in categories A and B are safe, those in D and X should be avoided.

But most medications fall into the gray area of category C — neither clearly safe nor harmful. In these cases, the benefits may outweigh the risks. “This should be a conversation between you and your obstetrician,” she says.

Insider’s takeaway

Benadryl is safe to take during pregnancy and it has not been linked to birth defects. You can take the same dose as all adults — 1 to 2 tablets every 4 to 6 hours. 

Diphenhydramine – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf

Continuing Education Activity

Diphenhydramine, which is available as an over-the-counter medication, is a first-generation antihistamine that is used in a variety of conditions to treat and prevent dystonias, insomnia, pruritis, urticaria, vertigo, and motion sickness. It also possesses local anesthetic properties for those patients who have allergies to other, more commonly used local anesthetics; however, this is an off-label use of the medication. Additional off-label use is for the treatment of oral mucositis. This activity will highlight the mechanism of action, adverse event profile, pharmacology, monitoring, and relevant interactions of diphenhydramine, pertinent for members of the interprofessional team in the treatment of patients

Objectives:

• Explain the mechanisms of action for diphenhydramine.

• Identify the approved and off-label indications for diphenhydramine use.

• Review the possible adverse events associated with diphenhydramine.

• Review the importance of improving care coordination among interprofessional team members to improve outcomes for patients where diphenhydramine can play a role in treatment.

Access free multiple choice questions on this topic.

Indications

Diphenhydramine, which is available as an over-the-counter medication, is a first-generation antihistamine that is used in a variety of conditions to treat and prevent dystonias, insomnia, pruritis, urticaria, vertigo, and motion sickness. It also possesses local anesthetic properties for patients with allergies to other, more commonly used local anesthetics; however, this is an off-label use of the medication. Additional off-label use is for the treatment of oral mucositis.

Mechanism of Action

Diphenhydramine mainly works through antagonizing the h2 (histamine 1) receptor, although it has other mechanisms of action as well.[1]

The h2 receptor is located on respiratory smooth muscles, vascular endothelial cells, the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), cardiac tissue, immune cells, the uterus, and the central nervous system (CNS) neurons. When the h2 receptor is stimulated in these tissues, it produces a wide variety of actions, including increased vascular permeability, promotion of vasodilation causing flushing, decreased atrioventricular (AV) node conduction time, stimulation of sensory nerves of airways producing coughing, smooth muscle contraction of bronchi and GIT, and eosinophilic chemotaxis promoting the allergic immune response.

Diphenhydramine acts as an inverse agonist at the h2 receptor, thereby reversing the effects of histamine on capillaries, reducing allergic reaction symptoms. 

Given that diphenhydramine is a first-generation antihistamine, it readily crosses the blood-brain barrier and inversely agonizes the h2 CNS receptors, resulting in drowsiness and suppressing the medullary cough center.[2]

The h2 receptor is similar to muscarinic receptors. Therefore, diphenhydramine also acts as an antimuscarinic; it is a competitive antagonist of muscarinic acetylcholine receptor, resulting in its use as an antiparkinson medication.

Lastly, diphenhydramine acts as an intracellular sodium channel blocker, resulting in local anesthetic properties.

The liver metabolizes diphenhydramine via CYP450. It is excreted in the urine, unchanged, and has a half-life of 3.4 to 9.2hours. The drug’s time to peak, serum is 2 hours.

Administration

Diphenhydramine can be given by tablet, capsule, or solution by mouth; by intramuscular (IM) or intravenous (IV) injection; or topically.

The following are recommended dosages for allergy symptoms:

Mild Symptoms

• Pediatric

  • 2 to 5 years: 6.25 mg by mouth/IM/IV every 4 to 6 hours as needed; max 37.5 mg/day

  • 6 to 11 years: 12.5 to 25mg by mouth/IM/IV every 4 to 6 hours as needed; max 150 mg/day

  • 12 years and older: use adult dosing

More Severe Symptoms

• Pediatric

  • 2 to 11 years: 1-2mg/kg by mouth/IM/IV every 2 to 4 hours as needed; max: 300 mg/day by mouth; 100mg/dose up to 400 mg/day IM/IV

  • 12 yo and older: use adult dosing

Extrapyramidal Symptoms

Insomnia (Short Treatment)

• 25 to 50 mg by mouth at bedtime as needed, start 30min before bedtime

• Pediatric – 12 yo and older: 25 to 50 mg by mouth at bedtime as needed; start 30min before bedtime

Motion Sickness Prevention

Pruritis/Urticaria

Sedation

Pruritis/Urticaria (Topical Treatment)

• For local anesthesia

  • Prepare a 1% solution of diphenhydramine (10 mg/mL)

  • Draw up the entire contents of a vial containing 50 mg/mL diphenhydramine into a 10 mL syringe. This should measure at a volume of 1 mL. 

  • Dilute the contents of the syringe with four mL of 0.9% sodium chloride to yield a final volume of 5 mL. This is now diphenhydramine 1% (10 mg/mL).[3][4]

  • This use is off-label. 

  • Watch for tissue necrosis.

Adverse Effects

Common Adverse Effects

• Drowsiness

• Dizziness

• Impaired coordination

• Headache

• Epigastric discomfort

• Thickened bronchial secretions

• Dry mucous membranes

• CNS stimulation, paradoxical

• Constipation

• Euphoria

• Ataxia

• Dysuria

• Urinary retention

• Hypotension

• Blurred vision

• Diplopia

• Palpitations

• Tachycardia

• Photosensitivity

• Diaphoresis

• Erectile dysfunction

• Early menses

• Anorexia

Serious Reactions

Cautions

• May cause postrenal obstruction, which can lead to urinary retention and thus decreased glomerular filtration rate. If acute kidney injury develops, discontinue diphenhydramine and begin supportive care for acute kidney injury if needed.[5]

• May cause CNS depression, which can impair driving or operating heavy machinery.

• May potentiate the effects of sedatives, including alcohol.

• Considered high-risk medication for elderly patients because of increased fall risk from dizziness, sedation, and hypotension.

• Inhibition of fast sodium channels and repolarizing potassium channels (Ikr) can prolong the action potential and the QT interval, leading to QTc prolongation.[6][7][8]

• Use caution in patients with asthma, hyperthyroidism, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, or increased ocular pressure.

Contraindications

• Documented hypersensitivity to diphenhydramine

• Premature infants and neonates

• Breastfeeding mothers

• Pregnancy Category B – used only if clearly needed

• Diphenhydramine has additive effects with alcohol and other CNS depressants (hypnotics, sedatives, tranquilizers)

• Monoamine oxidase A inhibitors prolong and intensify the anticholinergic effects of antihistamines

Monitoring

Obtain baseline creatinine level in pediatric patients.

Monitor all patients for mental alertness and relief of symptoms.

The intravenous infusion rate should be no higher than 25 mg/min.

Store at room temperature of 15 to 30 degrees C and protect from freezing and light.

Toxicity

Diphenhydramine overdose[9][10] can cause significant toxicity, ranging from agitation to cardiac arrhythmias[11] to rhabdomyolysis and classic anticholinergic toxidrome.[12] Signs and symptoms may include the following:

• Delirium, agitation, confusion, restlessness, hallucinations, ataxia, tremor, seizure

• Dry sweat glands and mucous membranes

• Flushed skin

• Elevated body temperature

• Mydriasis and blurry vision

• Urinary retention

• Tachycardia

• Rhabdomyolysis

Treatment involves the following:

• May attempt activated charcoal if within 1 hour of ingestion

• Benzodiazepines for agitation and seizures; however, phenobarbital and propofol, may be needed (avoid phenytoin/fosphenytoin, as they further block sodium channels)

• Sodium bicarbonate for widened QRS to overcome sodium channel blockade; 2 mEq/kg, typically 2 to 3 amps of bicarb, then continuous infusion. Mix 3 ampules of sodium bicarbonate in 1L D5W, and run this infusion at 250 mL/hr.

• Magnesium sulfate should be administered intravenously for prolonged QT interval.

• Vasopressors if hypotension develops

• May consider physostigmine (acetylcholinesterase inhibitor that binds reversibly to inhibit acetylcholinesterase in the central and peripheral nervous system, which in turn allows acetylcholine to bind to muscarinic receptors to overcome the anticholinergic block.  This should be given in concert with medical toxicologist/poison control.

  • Dose: 0.5 to 2 mg IV over 5 min, onset within 20 min

  • Have atropine at the bedside, and watch for bradycardia

• Further studies are needed to investigate the potential treatment of diphenhydramine toxicity using sodium bicarbonate and intravenous lipid emulsion therapy.[13]

Enhancing Healthcare Team Outcomes

Diphenhydramine is now available over the counter, but that does not mean that interprofessional healthcare team members should not pay close attention to when patients are using it, particularly if they are self-medicating; the clinician (MD, DO, NP, PA), nurse, and pharmacist needs to educate the patient on the safe use of this agent. While the drug is relatively safe, it should not be combined with alcohol, other sedatives, and hypnotics. The patient must be taught how to read labels and not take more than the recommended dose. Parents should be educated on the safe storage of this agent to prevent accidental ingestion by children. Interprofessional collaboration and information sharing will result in improved patient outcomes and help to preclude adverse events. [Level 5]

References

1.

Church MK, Church DS. Pharmacology of antihistamines. Indian J Dermatol. 2013 May;58(3):219-24. [PMC free article: PMC3667286] [PubMed: 23723474]

2.

Bolser DC. Older-generation antihistamines and cough due to upper airway cough syndrome (UACS): efficacy and mechanism. Lung. 2008;186 Suppl 1:S74-7. [PMC free article: PMC3131005] [PubMed: 17909896]

3.

Green SM. What is the role of diphenhydramine in local anesthesia? Acad Emerg Med. 1996 Mar;3(3):198-200. [PubMed: 8673772]

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Pavlidakey PG, Brodell EE, Helms SE. Diphenhydramine as an alternative local anesthetic agent. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2009 Oct;2(10):37-40. [PMC free article: PMC2923931] [PubMed: 20725573]

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Pham AQ, Scarlino C. Diphenhydramine and acute kidney injury. P T. 2013 Aug;38(8):453-61. [PMC free article: PMC3814442] [PubMed: 24222977]

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Sype JW, Khan IA. Prolonged QT interval with markedly abnormal ventricular repolarization in diphenhydramine overdose. Int J Cardiol. 2005 Mar 18;99(2):333-5. [PubMed: 15749198]

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Husain Z, Hussain K, Nair R, Steinman R. Diphenhydramine induced QT prolongation and torsade de pointes: An uncommon effect of a common drug. Cardiol J. 2010;17(5):509-11. [PubMed: 20865683]

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Olasińska-Wiśniewska A, Olasiński J, Grajek S. Cardiovascular safety of antihistamines. Postepy Dermatol Alergol. 2014 Jun;31(3):182-6. [PMC free article: PMC4112269] [PubMed: 25097491]

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Radovanovic D, Meier PJ, Guirguis M, Lorent JP, Kupferschmidt H. Dose-dependent toxicity of diphenhydramine overdose. Hum Exp Toxicol. 2000 Sep;19(9):489-95. [PubMed: 11204550]

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Krenzelok EP, Anderson GM, Mirick M. Massive diphenhydramine overdose resulting in death. Ann Emerg Med. 1982 Apr;11(4):212-3. [PubMed: 7073039]

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Zareba W, Moss AJ, Rosero SZ, Hajj-Ali R, Konecki J, Andrews M. Electrocardiographic findings in patients with diphenhydramine overdose. Am J Cardiol. 1997 Nov 01;80(9):1168-73. [PubMed: 9359544]

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Köppel C, Ibe K, Tenczer J. Clinical symptomatology of diphenhydramine overdose: an evaluation of 136 cases in 1982 to 1985. J Toxicol Clin Toxicol. 1987;25(1-2):53-70. [PubMed: 3586086]

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Abdi A, Rose E, Levine M. Diphenhydramine overdose with intraventricular conduction delay treated with hypertonic sodium bicarbonate and i.v. lipid emulsion. West J Emerg Med. 2014 Nov;15(7):855-8. [PMC free article: PMC4251236] [PubMed: 25493135]

Can I Take Benadryl and Zyrtec at the Same Time?

Find out what doctors say about doubling up on over-the-counter allergy medicine.

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The short answer? Yes, you can take both Zyrtec and Benadryl. However, when it comes to treating sneezing, coughing, and watery eyes, it’s important to understand the side effects of OTC medications and what’s really going on with your body in the first place, says Kara Wada, M.D., assistant professor of allergy and immunology at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus.

So before you go too far down the road of self-treatment, visit a board-certified allergist/immunology doctor to confirm that your symptoms are indeed due to allergies (for a quick take, try our quiz). Then you and your doctor can come up with a comprehensive approach to symptom prevention and management, says Dr. Wada.

Back to the meds at hand: “While you can double up on Zyrtec and Benadryl, there is an increased risk of side effects, especially sedation, when you use both. Plus, taking two medications likely signals the need for better strategies,” Dr. Wada says. Clearly, these two allergy pills aren’t doing the trick for you.

Here’s how they work: Zyrtec is a long-acting antihistamine that’s taken once a day. Benadryl is a short-acting (about 4-to-6 hours max) one that may provide some additional relief. However, Benadryl often causes drowsiness and/or the jitters (yes, opposite reactions), so it’s not a great choice if you have to work, drive, or operate machinery.

When patients need additional allergy control, “I tend to recommend using a second long-acting allergy medication in the same class as Zyrtec, such as Claritin and Allegra. They both have a greater potential to last longer and are going to cause fewer side effects than Benadryl,” she says.

Dr. Wada suggests taking Zyrtec in the morning without food and a second same-class drug in the evening on especially uncomfortable days when allergy symptoms are flaring. However, she does caution that if someone needs to double up on OTC medications to get relief, it’s best to see a doctor. There may be other types of medications that can target your symptoms better.

For instance, a steroid nasal spray such as Flonase, Nasocort, or Rhinocort may be more effective in controlling nasal allergies than an oral medication alone, says Susan Besser, M.D., a family internist at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore. “For itchy watery eyes, try an eye drop such as Naphcon A or Zaditor,” suggests Dr. Besser.

For severe allergies, shots are an option but they take a few years to work (you have to build immunity), so you’ll need symptom relief in the meantime.

Bottom line? When it comes to finding the best allergy medication for your needs, Dr. Wada says it usually requires a fair amount of trial and error. About 1 in 10 people will experience sedation with Zyrtec, so other drugs might be a better fit. What works great for you, may not for your friend. And taking them consistently is key: It can take two-to-four weeks of regular use to see their full effect. And remember: Always consult your doctor before starting a new OTC medication regime.

You should know: The answer above provides general health information that is not intended to replace medical advice or treatment recommendations from a qualified healthcare professional.

Meet Our Writer

Christine Coppa

Christine Coppa is a print and digital journalist covering health, oncology, parenting and lifestyle topics. She is the author of Rattled! (Crown). Visit christinecoppa.com.

Benadryl shouldn’t be available over the counter due to potential side effects, allergists say

For decades, Benadryl has been used as a go-to allergy drug to treat everything from bee stings to mysterious toddler hives, but a growing number of doctors now say the antihistamine is less effective and less safe than newer alternatives — and they’re calling its over-the-counter availability into question. 

A recent position statement from the Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (CSACI) warns against Benadryl as a first-line treatment for hay fever and hives in adults and children.

Health Canada is reviewing the statement, in which the group of doctors say the medication is over-used because of its easy availability and that it should be restricted to behind-the-counter access in pharmacies.

“It dumbfounds us that people still want to use it,” said Dr. David Fischer, a clinical allergist in Barrie, Ont., and an author of the CSACI position statement. 

The statement recommends against the use of first-generation h2 antihistamines, including Benadryl, which were introduced in the 1940s “before current licensing standards.” 

h2 refers to the type of cell receptors it works on in the brain, while first-generation means it’s an older classification of drugs that can cross into other parts of the body, leading to many other reactions apart from its intended antihistamine effects. Diphenhydramine is found in several brand-name and generic medicines for allergies or cold symptoms in North America, of which Benadryl is the best-known.

The medicinal ingredient in Benadryl, diphenhydramine hydrochloride, “makes you drowsy and irritable and if you take too high a dose or an overdose, you will end up in hospital,” Fischer said.  

Other reported side effects from an overdose of first-generation h2 antihistamines include breathing problems, coma, and seizures, according to the CSACI statement. There is also the potential for fatal heart rhythm disturbances when combined with other medications.

In comparison, Fischer says newer generation h2 antihistamines — such as Reactine, Claritin and Aerius, which make liquids or tablets for children as well as adult products — are safer, more effective and work more quickly. One of the biggest differences is that the newer medications cause much less, or no sedation.

Even at prescribed doses, medications like Benadryl are associated with sedation, cognitive impairment, and memory problems, said Dr. Anne Ellis, an allergist and professor at Queen’s University. Children can have paradoxical reactions that make them hyper, while elderly people can get delirious, she added.

Overdose danger for children 

Benadryl and Children’s Benadryl are available in pharmacies and stores without a prescription and marketed in Canada for many different symptoms including sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, insect bites, hives and other rashes.

In a statement to The Canadian Press, Benadryl’s maker, Johnson & Johnson, said, “Benadryl products have been trusted by doctors and moms for more than 60 years to provide effective symptom relief from allergies and allergic reactions.”

The company said the products are approved by Health Canada and “when used as directed, are safe and effective.”

Health Canada said last week it is assessing the CSACI position paper “to determine whether further risk mitigation measures for diphenhydramine-containing products are required.”

The federal regulator said it is aware of safety concerns regarding the use of diphenhydramine-containing products in children. Since 1965, the agency has received more than 1,700 reports of “serious adverse reactions suspected to be linked to products containing diphenhydramine,” which include fatigue, fevers, headaches and drowsiness.

Jennifer Gerdts, executive director of Food Allergy Canada, says that when her twin boys with food allergies were growing up, she believed Benadryl was a treatment option, but it’s now clear that it should not be. (Food Allergy Canada)

It adds those reports were not assessed by the agency, and that it’s “not possible to determine whether an adverse reaction reported to Health Canada is a result of using a specific health product.”

While both adults and children can experience side effects from diphenhydramine, children are particularly at risk for serious complications. This is because a small measuring error in dosing for a child can lead to an overdose and children can easily ingest the amount of medication that can be toxic.

Health Canada pointed to a 2016 guidance document advising sleep aid products that contain diphenhydramine hydrochloride should carry a label warning against use in children under 12 years of age. However, the agency did not clarify why the same guidance document does not require this warning for diphenhydramine hydrochloride in allergy or cough medications.

For adults, the 2016 Health Canada guidance document advises against driving or engaging in “activities requiring alertness” when diphenhydramine is taken for allergies or cough.

Since 2013, the World Allergy Organization has recommended newer antihistamines over first-generation antihistamines for the general treatment of allergies in their White Book.

Many parents unaware of Benadryl risks

Second- and third-generation h2 antihistamines were developed to have good antihistamine effects without the other side effects, and these became available in Canada in the 1980s. These medications contain antihistamine agents such as loratadine, desloratadine, or cetirizine, instead of diphenhydramine.

Dr. Kevin Chan, chair of the Canadian Paediatric Society’s acute care committee, said he has seen a general trend toward using newer antihistamines — but doesn’t think that information has gotten out to community hospitals. 

“A lot of emergency physicians are still using first-generation antihistamines,” he said. 

Even as calls for a re-consideration of first-generation h2 antihistamines like Benadryl grow among experts in professional organizations, the medical advice has been slow to trickle down to doctors and parents who continue to give the older medications to children, and to take it themselves.

“It’s very challenging to convince somebody what [they] have been doing for the past 20 years is wrong,” said Ellis. 

The role of antihistamines in the treatment of allergic reactions has been a source of confusion for parents of children with life-threatening allergies, Jennifer Gerdts, executive director of Food Allergy Canada, told CBC News. 

“It wasn’t that long ago that I, too, as a parent of twin boys with food allergy believed Benadryl was an option to treat allergic reactions,” Gerdts said in an email on Wednesday. 

“With this statement from CSACI, it’s crystal clear that Benadryl does not have a role in the treatment of allergic reactions. Parents need to understand that epinephrine is the first line and only recommended treatment to stop a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis),” she said. 

90,000 Roskomnadzor will block TikTok videos about taking an allergy drug – 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 department’s statement in response to an appeal by 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 identified 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 the deputy noted, 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 be prevented only 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 medicine, after which she began to hallucinate, and her pulse increased to 199 beats per minute.

Benadryl Antialergico – instructions for use, dosages, composition, analogs, side effects / Pillintrip

Usual Adult Dose for Insomnia

Note: Acetaminophen-Benadryl Antiallergico is usually dosed on the basis of the Benadryl Antiallergico component to correspond to 50 mg of Benadryl Antiallergico (76 mg Benadryl Antiallergico Citrate) before bedtime.

Paracetamol-Benadryl Antialgico is available in various doses (500 mg-25 mg, 650 mg-50 mg, 500 mg, 38 mg, 500 mg-12.5 mg, 1000 mg, -50 mg, 500 mg-50 mg, 325 mg-12.5 mg) and as a liquid, capsule. The manufacturer of these products usually recommends 2 doses at bedtime or as directed by a healthcare practitioner.

Usual Adult Dose for Pain

Note: Acetaminophen-Benadryl Antiallergico is usually dosed on a Benadryl Antiallergico component to match 50 mg Benadryl Antiallergico (76 mg Benadryl Antiallergico Citrate) at bedtime.

Paracetamol-Benadryl Antialgico is available in various doses (500 mg-25 mg, 650 mg-50 mg, 500 mg, 38 mg, 500 mg-12.5 mg, 1000 mg, -50 mg, 500 mg-50 mg, 325 mg-12.5 mg) and as a liquid, capsule. The manufacturer of these products usually recommends 2 doses at bedtime or as directed by a healthcare practitioner.

Usual Adult Dose for Headache

Note: Acetaminophen-Benadryl Antiallergico is usually dosed based on the Benadryl Antiallergico component to match 50 mg Benadryl Antiallergico (76 mg Benadryl Antiallergico Citrate) at bedtime.

Paracetamol-Benadryl Antialgico is available in various doses (500 mg-25 mg, 650 mg-50 mg, 500 mg, 38 mg, 500 mg-12.5 mg, 1000 mg, -50 mg, 500 mg-50 mg, 325 mg-12.5 mg) and as a liquid, capsule. The manufacturer of these products usually recommends 2 doses at bedtime or as directed by a healthcare practitioner.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Insomnia

Greater than or equal to 12 years :

Note: Acetaminophen-Benadryl Antiallergico is usually dosed on a Benadryl Antiallergico component to match 50 mg Benadryl Antiallergico (76 mg Benadryl Antiallergico Citrate) at bedtime.

Paracetamol-Benadryl Antialgico is available in various doses (500 mg-25 mg, 650 mg-50 mg, 500 mg, 38 mg, 500 mg-12.5 mg, 1000 mg, -50 mg, 500 mg-50 mg, 325 mg-12.5 mg) and as a liquid, capsule. The manufacturer of these products usually recommends 2 doses at bedtime or as directed by a healthcare practitioner.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Pain

Greater than or equal to 12 years :

Note: Acetaminophen-Benadryl Antiallergico is usually dosed based on the Benadryl Antiallergico component to match 50 mg Benadryl Antiallergico (76 mg Benadryl Antiallergico Citrate) at bedtime.

Paracetamol-Benadryl Antialgico is available in various doses (500 mg-25 mg, 650 mg-50 mg, 500 mg, 38 mg, 500 mg-12.5 mg, 1000 mg, -50 mg, 500 mg-50 mg, 325 mg-12.5 mg) and as a liquid, capsule. The manufacturer of these products usually recommends 2 doses at bedtime or as directed by a healthcare practitioner.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Headache

Greater than or equal to 12 years :

Note: Acetaminophen-Benadryl Antiallergico is usually dosed based on the Benadryl Antiallergico component to match 50 mg Benadryl Antiallergico (76 mg Benadryl Antiallergico Citrate) at bedtime.

Paracetamol-Benadryl Antialgico is available in various doses (500 mg-25 mg, 650 mg-50 mg, 500 mg, 38 mg, 500 mg-12.5 mg, 1000 mg, -50 mg, 500 mg-50 mg, 325 mg-12.5 mg) and as a liquid, capsule. The manufacturer of these products usually recommends 2 doses at bedtime or as directed by a healthcare practitioner.

Renal dose adjustment

No data available

Liver dose adjustment

Use with caution in patients with liver disease. Chronic paracetamol use is not recommended for patients with liver disease.

Precautions

Patients who consume three or more alcoholic beverages a day should be informed that you will see your doctor for advice on when and how to take paracetamol. Chronic, heavy alcohol users may have an increased risk of liver damage if you take more than the recommended doses.

Patients and adults caring for children should consult a physician before continuing to use paracetamol if symptoms worsen.Although rare, there is the potential for acetaminophen intoxication with chronic drug use, and symptoms that appear during the first phase of intoxication (nausea, vomiting, anorexia, malaise, and diaphoresis) may cause more doses to be used.

Patients should be warned about the sedative effects of Benadryl Antialergico and advised not to take this drug with alcohol.

Because of its anticholinergic effects, Benadryl Antialergico should be used with caution in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma, stenosing gastric ulcer, pyloroduodenal obstruction, prostatic hypertrophy, or bladder neck constipation. It should also be used with caution in patients with increased intraocular pressure, hyperthyroidism, cardiovascular disease, or high blood pressure.

Dialysis

Data not available

instructions for use in veterinary medicine, reviews, analogs, precautions – Exotarium

Benadryl for dosage of cats | How much can you give them for allergies?
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Benadryl is one of the most popular products you will find in any pharmacy.Its many uses are often useful when you want to treat allergies, runny nose, runny nose, skin rashes, insomnia, or motion sickness.

You may or may not have heard that some pets give Benadryl to their dogs. So it’s natural to ask yourself if it’s safe for your cat fur.

By default, medications and other health and wellness products made for humans should not be given to cats, especially when it comes to NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and similar medications.However, there are several human-based drugs that are safe and effective as pain relievers for feline creatures.

Benadryl is one of the many formulations for human consumption that are also considered safe for cats.

>> Click here to get Benadryl from Amazon

Yes, you can give Benadryl to your feline buddy.

It is not only approved by veterinarians, but also administered by them.Of course, your cat’s body is different from your own in many ways. Thus, it is not safe to use the same dosage for your cat that you are taking yourself.

The active ingredient of the drug is diphenhydramine, which is really safe for animals. It can be administered in various forms – liquid, crushed, or solid tablets – but always orally.

Some veterinarians suggest giving a dose of about one milligram per pound of body weight.

Remember, if in doubt, contact your veterinarian! Some veterinarian pharmacies may also mix the solution with a scent your cat will really like, such as chicken if she doesn’t like the taste.

There are three main reasons to give your kitten Benadryl:

The most common times a cat’s furbol is in need of This medication is designed to fight itching or rashes caused by allergies, bed bugs or something else. Cats all over the world suffer from a wide variety of allergies.Benadryl can help them cope with allergic reactions.

Some people use it when traveling or when they are suffering from car sickness. In such cases, it acts as a relatively mild sedative.

Benadryl can also be given when you need to calm your pet, when you move into a new home, or when you expect noisy guests to come and upset the kitten with their presence.

Excessive scratching, anxiety, anxiety and similar problems can also be remedied with Benadryl.However, the above rule applies here too – check with your veterinarian before giving the drug to your pet.

As we mentioned earlier, Benadryl should be given by mouth to the cat. There are three main ways to administer the medication to your furry buddy – in liquid form, as a hard tablet, or as a crushed powder mixed with something tasty.

Some pet parents find it easier to inject it in liquid form with a syringe.

Whether you are doing it this way or trying to get the kitten to swallow a pill, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Firstly, your cat may not like the taste, and secondly, you should focus on safety – the safety of your cat and your own.

Do your best to calm the fur ball before using Benadryl. Speak in a soothing voice, be gentle with it, and don’t let your behavior hint that there is something unpleasant in the cat’s path.Wrap the kitten in a blanket or towel to keep it stable and not scratch you, but be careful not to injure him.

If you can’t get your cat to take a pill or liquid medication, try crushing a pill and mixing it with some delicious cat treats or your pet’s favorite food.

Some veterinarian pharmacies may also mix the tasty formulation to help reduce it.

There is no definitive formula because each kitten is unique in itself.Thus, some cats (even if they are of the same breed, age, and size) may require smaller amounts, while others may need to increase the dosage for Benadryl to work its magic on them.

One milligram per pound is the standard safe dosage.

This means that if your pet weighs about 10 pounds, the standard safe dose of Benadryl would be 10 milligrams. However, this does not mean that the cat will not have side effects or that the medication will be sufficient.It all depends on the cat’s body and how well it absorbs and reacts to various substances.

One of the things you should never do is increase your dosage because the drug was not put into action shortly after taking it. Overdose can have serious consequences for kittens, adult cats and the elderly. If the medicine doesn’t work, don’t try your luck with it. Just consult a reputable veterinarian for an alternative solution.

In addition to side effects (see.Below), there are additional risks in giving Benadryl to your cat, Interference with other medications is one of them and you definitely don’t want to experiment with it.

What’s more, you can misinterpret the symptoms your cat is exhibiting. If the symptoms are simply masking another problem, taking Benadryl will not cure the real problem that is affecting your pet. In addition, the drug can actually worsen your feline companion’s overall health if he is already suffering from an undiagnosed illness.

And in cases of severe allergic reactions, Benadryl can exacerbate the problem. Most allergens cause breathing problems in cats, and since one of the side effects of Benadryl causes breathing problems, the combination between the allergic reaction and the drug can have life-threatening consequences for the cat.

As with any medication, there is a possibility that your pet may experience some side effects from the medication.The most common ones are:

Overdose can be fatal to cats. In other words, it can kill your precious feline ferbola if you are not careful.

Benadryl may interfere with other medications if your cat is taking other medications for a pre-existing disorder. Therefore, you should always check with your veterinarian prior to receiving Benadryl. Regardless of the medication, always make sure everything is completely safe for your feline friend.

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Benadryl for cats – can Kitty have it, how to give and dose 0

Could the answer to your cat’s problem be as close as your pharmacy cabinet? If your cat sneezes, coughs, and wheezes more than normal, or it always itches, you might be wondering if it would be safe to give her a small dose of Benadryl. Can cats take Benadryl? It is generally recommended that you only give your cat medication that is formulated for felines. However, in some cases, the dose of Benadryl for cats is acceptable if you are smart.

What is Benadryl?

Benadryl is a brand name for antihistamine from Johnson & Johnson. Johnson & Johnson declares itself a “family business”. Does this treat pets as family members? Not recommended for children under six years of age. Benadryl used as a topical solution should not be used under any circumstances.

We can take this to mean that topical Benadryl should not be used on the cat, as Kitty may swallow some while grooming. Will a small dose of orally administered Benadryl be acceptable? More on this later.

What it does and how it works

When an inflammatory substance known as histamine enters a living cell, it can cause irritation, leading to an allergic reaction. Motor neurons in the nervous system secrete a chemical known as acetylcholine to activate muscles. This can lead to paralysis or seizures.

An antihistamine such as Benadryl interferes with the binding of histamines to the H-1 receptors located on the small blood vessels and smooth muscles of the recipient’s body. It also blocks the transfer of acetylcholine. Thus, the allergic reaction is successfully prevented. The puffiness decreases, the eyes stop watering, and the nose stops working. Itching stops and breathing becomes easier.

The active ingredient in Benadryl is diphenhydramine. The generic version of this drug, diphenhydramine hydrochloride, has the same effects and can be bought at any pharmacy.

Can you give your cat Benadryl?

Can cats take Benadryl? Only with extreme caution can you get your kitten to take Benadryl.Many veterinarians agree that Benadryl, when used correctly, is reasonably safe for dogs and cats. Cat breeds that are prone to breathing problems (eg Persians) can get rid of Benadryl particularly quickly and effectively.

However, there are many important factors to consider. How old is your cat? How big is your cat? Is your cat on other medications or other medical problems?

What is Benadryl for cats, used for

If you are allergic to contact dermatitis or have sneezing or itchy eyes, you may be advised to take Benadryl.Many diseases that humans suffer from are also common in cats.

Cat allergy

You may have let Kitty try a new food just to find out if she is allergic. Allergies can also develop spontaneously. If your new perfume, houseplant, deodorizer, or home cleaning product not only makes Kitty shut up, but attack completely when she can’t breathe, she may be allergic.

In some cases, pulling the trigger and letting Kitty breathe clean air is enough. But it may take a while to bounce back, depending on the severity of the allergy.

Skin allergies

Some cats have sensitive skin. Perhaps the detergent you used on her bedding or the shampoo you used on her contained something that was causing your cat to fall asleep in a rash or hives. Plastic bowls, wool bedding, or latex toys can cause contact allergies in your cat.

If your cat has redness, inflammation, or unexplained bumps on its skin, or just can’t stop itching, it may be suffering from a skin allergy.

Reactions to vaccines

Many cats are also prone to allergic reactions to vaccines and new medications. It is extremely important that you supervise your cat after any shots or introduce unfamiliar medications. Some veterinarians may even insist that you and the cat stay for a few minutes for observation after Kitty has taken the pictures.As a precaution, she may be given Benadryl before firing.

Even if your cat has never had an allergic reaction to certain vaccines, it can have an unexpected side effect. Often these allergic reactions can become so severe that Benadryl alone is not enough.

Insect bites

Mosquitoes are more likely to target the smallest hairy part of the cat’s body – nose, ears and belly. And don’t you know that? These are the most sensitive parts of the body! If Kitty has a flea, they’ll bite anywhere. Fleas can cause itching and discomfort in any cat, but some cats are unfortunate enough to be severely allergic to flea bites.

Some cats may be curious about flying, buzzing and stinging. What happens if Kitty is allergic to bee stings, wasp or scorpion venom? Even non-venomous snakes and reptiles can have bacteria in their mouths that can make the bite dangerous.

Cat cold

Antibiotic treatment may be needed if the cold is caused by a bacterial or viral infection.All Benadryl does in this case is to relieve the symptoms. It should also be noted that Benadryl does not “cure” allergies, but suppresses the reaction.

Mild Sedative

If Kitty will be in a box or other small room for an extended period (usually in case of transportation), you can give her a little something to help her sleep. through it all. If Kitty is asleep, she will not be nervous about being imprisoned.

Little Benadryl can help her calm down and just take a nap during the whole ordeal. This is not recommended for older cats.

Against nausea or motion sickness

If you give your cat some Benadryl before the trip to help her sleep, she would not get motion sickness. However, if nausea and vomiting is a symptom that you are trying to treat rather than prevent, it is best to go with a different medication.

How long will Benadryl take at work?

Benadryl is a fast-acting drug.You should see the effects in less than thirty minutes. The smaller your cat is, the faster you will see results. Results should last long. They usually last between eight and twelve hours. Remember your cat’s size when calculating dosage. A very small cat will not need as much as a large cat. Very young kittens may not need to accept all of this. Check with your veterinarian.

Benadryl Cat Dosage

Liquid Benadryl is highly recommended as it is easier to measure.Benadryl capsules and tablets are available in twelve and a half milligrams and twenty five milligrams. This is too much for a small cat. A milligram per pound is an acceptable dosage. Benadryl Liquid Suspension shall be twelve and a half milligrams per five milliliters. Two to four milliliters of liquid benadryl, or just under half a tablet, should be made for a medium-sized cat.

In comparison, just one tablespoon is thirty milliliters, so a little bit goes a long way.This dose can be given every eight to twelve hours.

If you need a different dosage for your cat and are having minor problems converting milliliters to milligrams, this chart may be helpful.

• Dose 2 milligrams for a cat = 0.8 milliliters
• Dose 3 milligrams for a cat = 1.2 milliliters
• Dose 4 milligrams for a cat = 1.6 milliliters

Something bigger.

How to give Benadryl to cats

Remember that a cat is much smaller than you and does not need nearly the same dosage as you. Give your cat Benadryl only in liquid or tablet form, as topical ointment can make her sick if she licks it. Formulation should be diphenhydramine with no other drugs added. Your vet can give you a syringe to put the medicine in Kitty’s mouth.

This will be over so you can measure how much medication your cat is getting.Usually, animals that are sick enough to need medicine have no energy to fight, but someone who is simply irritated by a rash or a stinging nose may be just as bad as before, maybe even more.

Tablets can be crushed and mixed with food. Your veterinarian may suggest adding a flavoring agent such as chicken or fish to make the medication more pleasant for your cat. Make sure Kitty is calm before giving her the medicine.Swaddling in a favorite blanket or towel can help. Remember to be gentle, soothing, and disarming when you offer the syringe to her. Don’t make her think it’s unpleasant. If enough flavor is added, she may even want more, but not give her more than she needs.

When not to give this medicine to your kitten

It is also important to know when not to give Benadryl to your cat. Remember that you must treat the cause more than the symptoms.If your cat is feeling anxious or stressed, it is better to find out why she is feeling this way than to simply give her something to make her sleepy. If your cat has heart disease, always ask your veterinarian before giving her any medication she does not have. Ditto if your cat has glaucoma.

Pay attention to which other medications your cat is taking, as some will not mix with Benadryl. A more detailed list of these drugs will be disclosed later in this article. Finally, if Kitty has been bitten by a venomous spider, snake, scorpion, or other creature, she needs more than just Benadryl to treat her symptoms. She needs to see a veterinarian immediately for an anti-venom.

If your cat develops signs of anaphylaxis, it should be brought to the veterinarian immediately. Signs of anaphylactic shock include lethargy, vomiting, shortness of breath, and loss of consciousness. If she has spontaneous bowel movements and usually makes good use of her litter box, something is wrong.

Anything that looks like Kitty’s cramps is a reason to rush to the vet. The first step will be treatment with steroids and / or adrenaline. After a severe allergic reaction, an overnight stay in a hospital with oxygen treatment is quite often required.

Signs and symptoms of an overdose or allergic reaction

Make sure Kitty does not overdose on Benadryl. Measure your dose accurately. Keep the medicine where she cannot reach it. Some cats are allergic to Benadryl. Sleepy cat breathing is expected to become slow but deep. If Kitty is breathing heavily, barely breathing, or struggling for air, she may have a bad reaction to the drug.

Drowsiness is an expected side effect of Benadryl, but if your cat is unusually clumsy, short of breath, or seizures, she is allergic to Benadryl or has an overdose. Take her to the vet immediately.

Benadryl side effects

The reason Benadryl is sometimes used as a sedative is one of the main side effects of this medication is severe drowsiness.In rare cats, Benadryl can have the opposite reaction and make them hyper. There are other reactions your cat may have to Benadryl. Monitor your cat to see if she experiences any of the following.

• Loss of appetite
• Anxiety
• Changes in urination (particularly decreased)
• Diarrhea
• Disorientation
• Dry mouth
• Nausea or vomiting

or no symptoms 9 If you have no or no symptoms or no symptoms

2 or no symptoms You may need to take Kitty to the vet.You will be told what to do to help your furry little friend. Do not exceed the recommended dose of Benadryl as it leads to serious side effects.

Precautions

Before giving Benadryl to your cat, take into account any other medications your cat is taking, plus any pre-existing medical conditions.

Discuss everything with your veterinarian before giving your cat any medication. Also remember that Benadryl only treats symptoms.You also need to find a way to treat the underlying cause. Also remember that regular strength is enough. Benadryl’s extra strength might be too much for Kitty.

Can my cat take Benadryl if they are taking other medications?

Benadryl is not miscible at all with any of the following preparations. Do not give your cat Benadryl if he does one of the following.

• Amitraz This drug is often found in tick medicines.
• Selegiline If your cat has cognitive dysfunction or senility, this drug may be prescribed.
• Epinephrine Anyone who uses EpiPen knows that it is for the treatment of allergic reactions leading to anaphylaxis.
• Furazolidone It is often used as an antibacterial agent.
• Heparin sodium or calcium It is prescribed for the treatment of diseases associated with blood clotting, such as disseminated intravascular coagulation and thromboembolic diseases.
• Warfarin sodium This medication is also used for the treatment and prevention of blood clots.
• Central nervous system depressants Cats with anxiety disorders can be given this drug.

If your cat is taking any of these medications, your veterinarian should suggest an alternative to Benadryl. Always use caution and heed your veterinarian’s advice when prescribing medication to your cat. This way, you can be sure that your cat is receiving the best possible care.

Conclusion

Benadryl is a medicine you must have in every medicine cabinet, whether for humans or your feline friend. Kiti is just as allergic as you are. An antihistamine like Benadryl can relieve her symptoms, but there are two important things to keep in mind. First, you need to treat more than just the symptoms. Second, your cat needs a very small dose.

If your cat is elderly, has other health problems, or is taking other medications, you may want to reconsider prescribing Benadryl.For the most part, this is a safe method of calming down, but don’t overdo it and try to figure out why she needs the sedative first and if there are other ways to help her calm down.

Benadryl is mostly safe for cats, but like everything else, it should only be used in moderation. Always keep in mind that a little goes a long way. Be safe, measure carefully, and know when and when not to give your cat Benadryl. This way, your cat will be healthy and happy.

Resources:

Can Benadryl be given to 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-pound cat will take half a 25 mg Benadryl tablet up to three times a day, depending on your veterinarian’s recommendation.

Can Benadryl kill a cat?

Although antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benedryl) can be used in pets at the correct dosage, overdose can kill pets…. Enrofloxacin, an antibiotic, has been associated with blindness when used in high doses in cats (dogs do not have such problems).

Can you give your cat Benadryl for anxiety?

Your veterinarian may also recommend Benadryl, a mild sedative. Most cats are not the biggest fans of travel. Staying in the crate for several hours is enough to cause complete panic. In these cases, Benadryl can be used to calm your cat and allow them to rest quietly until you reach their final destination.

How much Benadryl can I give my cat to calm down?

For a medium-sized cat, you will probably want to give half a 25 milligram tablet. A 10 pound cat will likely need about four milliliters of fluid (available at 12.5mg / 5ml) to get the correct dose according to John Fout, DVM.

Ivermectin Dosage Guide with Precautions

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last Updated: January 3, 2020

Used for the following strengths: 3 mg; 6 mg

Usual Adult Dose for:

Usual Pediatric Dose for:

Additional dosage information:

Usual Adult Dose for Onchocerciasis

0.15 mg / kg orally once every 12 months
Patients with severe eye infections may need to be re-treated every 6 months. Re-treatment may be considered at 3-month intervals.

Dosing recommendations based on body weight :
15 to 25 kg: 3 mg orally once
26 to 44 kg: 6 mg orally once
45 to 64 kg: 9 mg orally once from
65 to 84 kg: 12 mg orally once
85 kg or more: 0.15 mg / kg orally once

Usual Adult Dose for Strongyloidiasis

0.2 mg / kg orally once
In immunocompromised patients (including HIV), treatment for strongyloidosis may be refractory and require re-treatment (i.e.i.e. every 2 weeks) and suppressive therapy (i.e. once a month), although there are no controlled trials. A cure may not be achievable in these patients.

Dosing recommendations based on body weight :
15 to 24 kg: 3 mg orally once
25 to 35 kg: 6 mg orally once
36 to 50 kg: 9 mg orally once
51 to 65 kg: 12 mg orally once
66 to 79 kg: 15 mg orally once
80 kg or more: 0.2 mg / kg orally once

Usual Adult Dose for Ascariasis

0.2 mg / kg orally once

Usual Adult Dose for Migrant Skin Maggot

0.2 mg / kg orally once

Usual Adult Dose for Filariasis

0.2 mg / kg orally once

Study (n = 26,000)
Mass Treatment in Papua New Guinea :
Fanatous cancer: 0.4 mg / kg orally once a year (for a single dose annual dose of diethylcarbamazine 6 mg / kg), from 4 to 6 years

Usual Adult Dose for Scabies

0.2 mg / kg orally once and repeat after 2 weeks
Ivermectin therapy may be combined with a topical scabicide.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Filariasis

Study (n = 26,000)
Mass Treatment in Papua New Guinea :
Bancofti filariasis :
5 years and older: 0.4 mg / kg orally once a year (with a single annual dose of 6 mg diethylcarbamazine / kg), from 4 to 6 years

Renal dose adjustment

No data available

Liver dose adjustments

No data available

Adjustment dose

Re-treatment is required as ivermectin is not active against adult onchocerca volvulus parasites, which are usually found in subcutaneous nodules.Surgical excision of these nodules may be considered to eliminate microfilariae growth in adults.

Patients with scabies may require two or more doses of ivermectin, one to two weeks apart.

Precautions

Cutaneous, systemic, and / or ophthalmic reactions have been reported with other microfilaricidal drugs. Allergic and inflammatory reactions (Mazzotti reaction) can occur with ivermectin, probably due to the death of microfilariae.Patients receiving ivermectin therapy for onchocerciasis may experience these reactions in addition to clinical adverse reactions, possibly possibly or definitely related to the therapy itself. Treatment of severe reactions Muzzotti has not undergone controlled clinical trials. Oral or intravenous rehydration, corticosteroids, antihistamines, acetaminophen, and / or aspirin have been used for treatment.

After treatment with microfilaricidal drugs, patients with hyperreactive onchodermatitis (sowda) may be more likely than others to experience severe adverse reactions, especially edema and worsening of onchodermatitis.

Serious or fatal encephalopathy is rare in patients with onchocerciasis and severe Loa Loa infection, either spontaneously or after treatment with ivermectin. These patients had pain (including neck and back pain), eye redness, conjunctival hemorrhage, shortness of breath, urinary and / or fecal incontinence, difficulty standing / walking, mental status changes, confusion, lethargy, stupor, seizures, or coma … reported. This syndrome is very rare after the use of ivermectin.A preliminary assessment for loasa and close follow-up should be performed in all patients considered for ivermectin treatment for any reason and those who have been exposed to Loa loa-endemic areas of West and Central Africa.

The patient should be advised of the need for repeated stool examinations to confirm clearance of Strongyloides stercoralis infection.

The patient should be informed that treatment with ivermectin does not kill the adult Onchocerca parasites, and therefore re-observation and re-treatment is usually necessary.

In immunocompromised patients (including HIV-infected) undergoing treatment for intestinal strongyloidiasis, repeated courses of therapy may be required. Adequate and well-controlled clinical trials in these patients have not been performed to determine the optimal dosing regimen. Several treatments may be required, that is, at 2-week intervals, and a cure may not be achieved. Controlling extracellular strongyloidosis in these patients is difficult and suppressive therapy, i.e. once a month, may be helpful.

Ivermectin is extensively metabolized in the liver and should be used with caution in patients with liver disease. Dosage adjustments may be required, although specific recommendations are not currently available. The manufacturer does not recommend excluding ivermectin treatment in patients with liver disease.

Clinical trials of ivermectin did not include enough patients aged 65 and over to determine if they were different from younger patients.Other reported clinical experience did not show differences in the responses of the elderly and younger patients. In general, treatment of elderly patients should be cautious, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased liver, kidney, or cardiac function, as well as concomitant diseases or other drug therapy.

Safety and efficacy in pediatric patients weighing less than 15 kg have not been determined.

Dialysis

No data available

Other comments

Each dose of ivermectin should be taken on an empty stomach with a full (8 ounce) glass of water.

A recent pharmacokinetic study reported that after a high-fat meal, absorption was significantly higher (about 2.5 times) than during fasting.

Additional Information

Always check with your healthcare professional to ensure that the information displayed on this page is appropriate for your personal circumstances.

Similar Questions

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Has your cat ever been sick?

If so, your veterinarian may have prescribed antibiotics.Most people also took antibiotics.

Antibiotics are a class of drugs used to treat bacterial infections. These can include upper respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, and even skin infections.

There is a wide range of antibiotics that can be used, and one of the most common is amoxicillin. This is generally an inexpensive option, very safe and generally well tolerated. Amoxicillin for cats is often one of the first drugs of choice.

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What is amoxicillin … (read in 1 minute)

Can your kitten take it … (read in 2.5 minutes)

Forms and doses … (read per minute)

Recommendations for the use of amoxicillin … (1 minute reading)

Potential side effects … (1 minute reading)

What is amoxicillin?

Amoxicillin is an antibiotic associated with penicillin. Amoxicillin tends to be more effective than penicillin because it lasts longer. It is more resistant to stomach acids, which readily degrade penicillin. It is also more effective than another relative of the drug, ampicillin.

This is what it does:

These drugs are called aminopenicillins and prevent bacteria from creating or keeping the cell wall intact. The bacteria then die. You can see this in combination products like Clavamox, where the drug is even more effective and long lasting because it is mixed with a drug called clavulanic acid.

Amoxicillin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic. Bacteria come in many different types, usually classified as gram-positive or gram-negative. Amoxicillin is effective against both of these categories.

Amoxicillin will only work against certain bacteria. This medication does not harm other infectious agents such as viruses and fungi.

A Brief History of Antibiotics

Alexander Fleming developed the first antibiotic in 1928.It was penicillin that makes it an important drug. It is not used as usual today. Fleming discovered that penicillin grows like mold in Fleming’s lab. This saved the lives of many soldiers in World War II after Fleming discovered that mold had killed some bacterial cultures.

Designed for humans, antibiotics are used in most animal species. These types of drugs are still life-saving today. Some, like amoxicillin, are bactericidal, which means they kill bacteria.Others stop bacteria from growing by making them bacteriostatic.

Can cats take amoxicillin?

You might be wondering if Fuzzy can take amoxicillin, and if she is not allergic, she can. There are certain times when medication may be most helpful.

As previously mentioned, amoxicillin is not used in cases where viruses or fungal infections are suspected. Research has shown that amoxicillin is effective against bacteria found in the skin and mouth.Thus, amoxicillin is readily prescribed for some very common conditions.

Abscesses

Abscesses are swollen areas of infected tissue from a pet or person. If your cat spends time outdoors or around other cats, she may get into a fight.

One of the most common injuries seen in these cats is abscesses because bacteria get under the skin from another cat’s tooth or nail.These skin infections can be very painful.

Research has shown that amoxicillin for cats can be very effective against some of the most common bacteria found in these wounds.

Also, sometimes your cat can get an infected scratch. They can also often be treated with amoxicillin. Your veterinarian may want to culture an abscess or wound. They will often start your cat with an antibiotic of first choice.

Respiratory infections

Like you, your cat may have a respiratory infection.They are more common in the upper respiratory tract. It’s like you have sinus infections more often than bronchitis. Common signs or symptoms of an upper respiratory infection include runny nose, sniffling, sneezing, and sometimes even coughing.

Your veterinarian will most likely be looking for discharge from your eyes or nose. They will also listen to their breasts for signs of pneumonia.

Although some respiratory infections are caused by viruses, many are at least exacerbated by bacterial infections.

The bacteria commonly found in your cat’s respiratory tract are often sensitive to amoxicillin, making it an excellent choice for your kitten’s illness.

UTI

Urinary tract infections can affect some cats. These are usually bacterial infections of the bladder or kidney.

Often referred to as UTIs, they can occur in both male and female cats. Your furry friend may experience pain when urinating, causing discomfort.This can reduce her urge to use the trash bin.

Your veterinarian will often collect a sample of her urine. The urine is tested to make sure she has a UTI, and they look for white blood cells and bacteria in her urine.

Amoxicillin helps

If you have a UTI, they will usually be treated with an effective antibiotic. Amoxicillin for cats is frequently used. It can be used alone or as a combination antibiotic such as Clavamox.

Forms and dosages

Amoxicillin is available as an antibiotic in several different forms and dosages. In veterinary medicine, the most common forms are liquids and tablets.

Liquid amoxicillin is usually found at a concentration of 100 milligrams per milliliter. Tablets come in several different strengths: 100 milligrams, 250 milligrams, or 500 milligrams.

In veterinary medicine, amoxicillin can be mixed with clavulanic acid.This product is Clavamox.

Like regular amoxicillin, Clavamox is also available in liquid and tablet formulations. The liquid is 62.5 milligrams per milliliter of suspension. The tablets come in different sizes: 62.5 milligrams, 125 milligrams, 250 milligrams, and 375 milligrams.

You may be surprised by the dosage of amoxicillin for cats.

Research has shown that amoxicillin alone is often effective at a dosage of eleven to twenty-two milligrams per kilogram of body weight. This is given at a frequency of twice a day. Most veterinarians treat for at least seven to ten days.

This tells you how much amoxicillin is for cats, but Clavamox is even easier to dose. Most cats take 62.5 mg twice a day for a set number of days.

Recommendations for the use of amoxicillin for cats

As with all medicinal products, it is important to follow all indicated directions. This includes adhering to the dispensing schedule that your veterinarian prescribed.Keep Amoxicillin Liquid in the refrigerator unless you are giving it to your cat.

If you miss a dose, give your cat if there is little time for the next dose. If this happens, you can skip the missed dose. This can often render the medicine ineffective. It can also lead to the development of bacterial resistance.

It is important to remember that some infections may not be bacterial. It is also important to remember that amoxicillin is a drug. As such, never prescribe a medication yourself, even if you are a doctor.

Take your cat to your family’s vet.

If you are concerned that your cat is not getting better or may have been misdiagnosed, return to your veterinarian. Always remember that you can go to another vet for a second opinion.

Potential side effects of amoxicillin for cats

As with any medication, there are potential side effects. Fortunately, amoxicillin is very well tolerated by cats. Allergic reactions are not as common as in humans.

The most common potential side effects are gastrointestinal problems. These include vomiting, diarrhea, or simply softer stools.

Allergic reactions may occur. In cats, this can occur in the form of hives or shortness of breath.

Some cats may drool after taking amoxicillin, especially liquid amoxicillin.This could be a reaction when it makes them feel nauseous, or simply because they don’t like the taste.

Be sure to talk to your veterinarian about any signs or problems you may encounter.

Can human amoxicillin be used for cats?

Oddly enough, human amoxicillin can be used on cats, if your vet doesn’t have it in stock, they can write a prescription. They may ask you to fill it out at a pharmacy like Walgreens.This is exactly the same medicine.

If your cat is prescribed Clavamox, you may be familiar with it as augmentin. This is the human form of amoxicillin with clavulanic acid.

Conclusion

If your cat is sick or behaving differently, a trip to your family’s veterinarian is recommended.

They can diagnose a bacterial infection, and if so, amoxicillin can be used. This antibiotic has been around for a long time and is very effective against many types of bacteria.

There are other formulations such as Clavamox. This is another drug added to amoxicillin. This makes it even more powerful and long lasting.

Resources:

What Does Amoxicillin Treat in Cats?

Amoxicillin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic prescribed by veterinarians for the treatment of various infections in dogs and cats. It inhibits bacterial growth by preventing bacterial cell wall formation. Amoxicillin should only be used to treat bacterial infections, not viral or parasitic infections.

Can I give my cat 500 mg of amoxicillin?

The recommended dosage is 50 mg (5-10 mg / lb) once daily. The dosage should be continued for 5-7 days or 48 hours after all symptoms have subsided.

How many days do you give your cat amoxicillin?

The usual dose of amoxicillin for dogs and cats is 5-10 mg / lb every 12-24 hours. Contact your veterinarian immediately if your pet develops severe or bloody diarrhea.Give all the amoxicillin that is prescribed for your pet, as symptoms may begin to improve before the infection is completely healed.

Can amoxicillin induce vomiting in cats?

Amoxicillin-clavulanic acid may cause stomach upset, vomiting and diarrhea. If stomach upset occurs, try giving medication with food. … This short-acting drug should stop working within 24 hours, although in animals with liver or kidney disease the effect may be longer.

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90,000 New TikTok ‘Benadryl Challenge’ Blamed for Teenage Death

TikTok Tasks – and before the app – the tasks that teenagers do in general are not new. Since the onset of the pandemic, they have mainly focused on teaching dance moves or push-ups, but recently a new, more dangerous TikTok challenge has emerged: Teens are taking large amounts of Benadryl for the ‘journey’, also known as the Benadryl Challenge. “

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) now says it is investigating reports of adolescent hospitalizations and deaths who accept the challenge.In a newsletter released on September 24, the agency said it had contacted TikTok to urge the removal of such videos from its platform. It also warns consumers not to exceed recommended dosages of over-the-counter drugs.

“We will inform the public as soon as we complete our review or receive additional information,” the agency said.

An alarming trend allegedly led to the death of a 15-year-old from Oklahoma in August.According to KFOR, her family described her as “an otherwise happy and faith-driven teenager” who is “not one to experiment with drugs.” The radio station quoted Scott Schaeffer, director of the Oklahoma Poison and Drug Information Center, as saying that the dose of diphenhydramine (aka Benadryl) children take for hallucinations is “very close to a dose that could cause something potentially life-threatening.” …

The girl’s death comes after reports of three Texas teenagers who were hospitalized in May after overdosing on allergy medication.In a report released on July 14, doctors at the Cook Children’s Health Care System in Fort Worth warned parents about the dark side of the social media platform. All three teens told medical staff that the idea came to them after watching a video on TikTok, which says they can get high and hallucinate if they take a dozen or more Benadryl tablets.

The hospital told the story of one patient, 14-year-old Rebecca, who overdosed after taking 14 Benadryl tablets in the middle of the night on Memorial Day.“It was scary. She had broken sentences, hallucinations. Her resting heart rate was 199,” said Katie, Rebecca’s mother, Checkup. “We rushed her to the local emergency room and they decided to move her to Cook Center. Children’s. ”

Rebecca was hospitalized after disturbing electrocardiogram (EKG) results, but luckily her heart rate returned to normal overnight. She is not expected to have serious health problems due to the overdose.

While Benadryl seems harmless enough, it can cause health problems if abused, said Health Gina Posner, MD, board-certified pediatrician at MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, California. “It’s okay in small doses, but large doses are a bad idea,” she said. Here’s what you need to know about how Benadryl, especially taking too much of the drug, can affect your body.

RELATED: TikTok’s “Skull Breaker Challenge” Sends Kids To The Emergency Room And Worries Parents – Here’s What To Know

What exactly does Benadryl do?

Benadryl is a trademarked over-the-counter generic diphenhydramine.According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), it is a type of sedative antihistamine, which means it blocks histamines – chemicals in certain cells in your body that are released as your body responds to allergies. The NIH says antihistamines can be used to treat allergies and upper gastrointestinal conditions caused by high stomach acid.

Benadryl is also an anticholinergic drug.“This means the drug blocks the cholinergic nervous system, which is responsible for the production of saliva and tears, and facilitates body functions such as urination, heart rate, body temperature, brain and eye functions,” said Robert Weber, PharmD, Pharmacy Administrator at Wexner Medical Center at Ohio State University Health reported. As a result, taking Benadryl can lead to side effects such as increased heart rate, dry mouth and dry eyes, he says.

Basically, Benadryl can affect your entire body. “Just as an allergic reaction can affect multiple organ systems in the body, Benadryl can affect multiple organ systems,” Ashanti Woods, MD, a pediatrician at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore, recently told Health.

RELATED: Wrapped viral problem encourages children to eat food through packaging – this is why it is so dangerous

What happens if you take too much Benadryl?

First, we have to talk about how much Benadryl is too much: according to the dosage guide on the Benadryl website, children aged 6-12 should only take one tablet every four to six hours; people over 12 years of age are advised to take one or two tablets every four to six hours.The medication is not recommended for children under 6 years of age. Benadryl also recommends not taking more than six doses of the drug in a 24 hour period.

According to Dr. Woods, children are especially at risk of overdose, but this depends on their age and height. According to him, the same dosage for a child can cause serious negative health effects, while for an adult it is normal. He also adds that this may have a “completely different effect” on a teenager than on a younger child.

“In general, Benadryl should not be given to children under the age of six,” says Dr. Weber. “The drug in children between six and 12 years old can have exaggerated effects and possibly be even more dangerous. The age range 12 to 18 is a bit of a controversial answer, but many of them could have exaggerated and dangerous side effects. ” He adds that the cholinergic receptors that Benadryl targets may be more sensitive in children.

Taking too much Benadryl at any age is not a good idea.”Large amounts cause exaggerated effects,” says Dr. Weber, adding that taking too much can cause the following problems:

• High body temperature
• Confusion
• Blurred vision
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Instability
• High blood pressure
• Hallucinations
• Convulsions
• Brain damage
• Acute cardiovascular disease
• Death

Antihistamines like Benadryl are also dangerous when combined with pain relievers and decongestants, according to the National Poison Control Center (NCPC).Taking Benadryl with any of these drugs can lead to an unintentional overdose.

Johnson & Johnson, Benadryl’s parent company, issued a statement earlier this month condemning Benadryl’s TikTok issue, saying the trend is “extremely worrisome, dangerous and must be stopped immediately.” The manufacturer warned that abuse or misuse of Benadryl, like any other drug, “can lead to serious side effects with potentially long-term effects,” and added that all Benadryl products “should only be used as directed on the label.Johnson & Johnson said it recommends keeping all medicines out of the reach of children. social networks demonstrating this behavior. ”

If you or someone you know is taking too much Benadryl (or combining it with other medicines that make it more potent), it is important to seek immediate medical attention by calling 911 or a local poison control center that can connect you with emergency help.

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