Is diphenhydramine same as benadryl. Diphenhydramine HCl: The Active Ingredient in BENADRYL® – Uses, Forms, and Safety
What is diphenhydramine HCl and how does it work. What are the uses of diphenhydramine HCl in allergy and cold relief. What forms does diphenhydramine HCl come in for oral and topical use. How to safely use diphenhydramine HCl and avoid potential side effects.
Understanding Diphenhydramine HCl: The Powerhouse Behind BENADRYL®
Diphenhydramine HCl is the active ingredient that makes BENADRYL® an effective antihistamine for allergy and cold symptom relief. This powerful compound works by blocking histamine receptors in the body, effectively reducing the uncomfortable symptoms associated with allergies and common colds.
How exactly does diphenhydramine HCl function in the body? When allergens enter our system, they trigger the release of histamines, which are responsible for symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. Diphenhydramine HCl acts as a barrier, preventing histamines from binding to their receptors and thus alleviating these bothersome symptoms.
Key Functions of Diphenhydramine HCl:
- Blocks histamine receptors
- Reduces allergy symptoms
- Provides relief from cold symptoms
- Acts as an antihistamine in both oral and topical forms
The Versatility of Diphenhydramine HCl: Oral and Topical Applications
One of the most remarkable aspects of diphenhydramine HCl is its versatility in addressing various symptoms through different administration methods. This antihistamine can be taken orally or applied topically, depending on the specific symptoms and needs of the individual.
Oral Applications of Diphenhydramine HCl
When taken orally, diphenhydramine HCl provides temporary relief from a range of allergy and cold symptoms. These include:
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Itchy throat
In some formulations, diphenhydramine HCl is combined with zinc acetate to enhance its effectiveness in addressing these symptoms.
Topical Applications of Diphenhydramine HCl
When applied to the skin, diphenhydramine HCl offers protection and relief from various skin-related issues. Its topical uses include:
- Relieving itching from insect and bug bites
- Soothing sunburn discomfort
- Alleviating minor skin irritations and burns
- Addressing rashes caused by poison ivy, poison oak, and sumac
The dual nature of diphenhydramine HCl makes it a versatile solution for both internal and external allergy-related discomforts.
Exploring the Various Forms of Diphenhydramine HCl
Diphenhydramine HCl is available in a variety of forms, catering to different preferences and needs. Understanding these different forms can help individuals choose the most suitable option for their specific situation.
Oral Forms of Diphenhydramine HCl
For those seeking oral relief from allergy and cold symptoms, diphenhydramine HCl comes in several convenient forms:
- Tablets
- Liquid gels
- Liquid medicine
- Chewable tablets
These various forms are designed to accommodate different age groups and preferences, ensuring that both adults and children can find a suitable option.
Topical Forms of Diphenhydramine HCl
For skin-related issues, diphenhydramine HCl is available in several topical forms:
- Cream
- Spray
- Stick
- Gel
These topical applications provide quick and targeted relief for itchy skin and other external irritations.
BENADRYL® Products: Harnessing the Power of Diphenhydramine HCl
BENADRYL® offers a wide range of products that utilize diphenhydramine HCl to provide relief from various allergy and cold symptoms. These products are tailored to different age groups and specific needs.
Oral Allergy and Cold Symptom Relief Products
For adults and children 6 years and older, BENADRYL® offers several options:
- BENADRYL® Allergy ULTRATABS® Tablets
- BENADRYL® Allergy Dye-Free LIQUI-GELS®
- Children’s BENADRYL® Allergy Liquid
- Children’s BENADRYL® Dye-Free Allergy Liquid Antihistamine Medicine
- Children’s BENADRYL® Chewables
For those 12 years and older seeking additional congestion relief:
- BENADRYL® Allergy Plus Congestion
- Children’s BENADRYL® Allergy Plus Congestion Nasal Decongestant & Sinus Medicine for Kids
Topical Itch Relief Products
BENADRYL® also offers a variety of topical products for skin-related issues:
- BENADRYL® Itch Stopping Cream
- BENADRYL® Extra Strength Itch Stopping Cream
- BENADRYL® Extra Strength Spray
- BENADRYL® Extra Strength Itch Relief Stick
- BENADRYL® Itch Stopping Gel Extra Strength
Safety Considerations and Potential Side Effects of Diphenhydramine HCl
While diphenhydramine HCl is generally safe when used as directed, it’s crucial to be aware of potential side effects and safety considerations. Understanding these can help ensure the safe and effective use of products containing this active ingredient.
Important Safety Precautions
When using products containing diphenhydramine HCl, keep the following precautions in mind:
- Do not use to make a child sleepy
- Avoid using with other products containing diphenhydramine, including topical applications
- Consult a doctor before use if you have breathing problems, glaucoma, or prostate issues
- Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you’re taking sedatives or tranquilizers
- Exercise caution when driving or operating machinery due to potential drowsiness
- Avoid alcoholic drinks while using diphenhydramine HCl
- Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult a healthcare professional before use
Potential Side Effects
While not everyone experiences side effects, it’s important to be aware of potential reactions to diphenhydramine HCl:
- Marked drowsiness
- Increased sensitivity to alcohol and other sedatives
- Excitability, especially in children
Can diphenhydramine HCl interact with other medications? Indeed, this antihistamine may interact with certain medications, particularly sedatives and tranquilizers. It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional about potential drug interactions before using diphenhydramine HCl.
Proper Dosage and Administration of Diphenhydramine HCl
Ensuring the correct dosage of diphenhydramine HCl is crucial for its safe and effective use. The appropriate amount can vary depending on factors such as age, symptoms, and the specific product being used.
Dosage Guidelines for Oral Products
For oral BENADRYL® products containing diphenhydramine HCl:
- Adults and children 12 years and older: 25-50 mg every 4-6 hours
- Children 6 to 11 years: 12.5-25 mg every 4-6 hours
- Children under 6 years: Consult a doctor
Do not exceed 300 mg per day for adults or 150 mg per day for children.
Application Guidelines for Topical Products
For topical BENADRYL® products:
- Apply to affected area not more than 3 to 4 times daily
- Stop use and ask a doctor if symptoms persist for more than 7 days or worsen
How quickly does diphenhydramine HCl take effect? Oral diphenhydramine HCl typically begins to work within 15 to 30 minutes after ingestion. Topical applications may provide more immediate relief for skin-related issues.
The Future of Diphenhydramine HCl in Allergy and Cold Relief
As research in pharmacology and allergy treatment continues to advance, the role of diphenhydramine HCl in managing allergy and cold symptoms may evolve. Scientists are continuously exploring new formulations and delivery methods to enhance the efficacy and reduce potential side effects of this widely used antihistamine.
Potential Developments in Diphenhydramine HCl Research
Some areas of ongoing research and potential future developments include:
- Extended-release formulations for longer-lasting relief
- Combination therapies with other active ingredients
- Targeted delivery systems for reduced systemic effects
- Novel applications beyond allergy and cold symptom relief
How might these developments impact the future use of diphenhydramine HCl? As research progresses, we may see more specialized and effective treatments using this versatile antihistamine, potentially offering better symptom management with fewer side effects.
In conclusion, diphenhydramine HCl, the active ingredient in BENADRYL®, remains a cornerstone in the treatment of allergy and cold symptoms. Its versatility in both oral and topical applications, coupled with ongoing research and development, ensures its continued relevance in providing relief to millions of individuals worldwide. As with any medication, it’s crucial to use diphenhydramine HCl products as directed and consult with healthcare professionals when necessary to ensure safe and effective symptom management.
About Diphenhydramine HCl: The Active Ingredient in BENADRYL®
What Is Diphenhydramine HCl and What Does It Do?
The active ingredient in BENADRYL® is an antihistamine called diphenhydramine HCl. Antihistamines are used for relief from symptoms related to hay fever, upper respiratory allergy, or cold symptoms.
Antihistamines are a class of drugs that block histamine from binding to h2 receptors in the body. Histamines are molecules in the body’s cells that are responsible for many allergy symptoms, such as runny nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes.
What Is Diphenhydramine HCl Used For?
Diphenhydramine can be taken as oral allergy medicine, oral cold medicine, or topical antihistamine.
Diphenhydramine taken orally provides temporary relief from allergy and cold symptoms such as:
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Itchy throat
Diphenhydramine is often combined with another active ingredient, zinc acetate.
The combination applied to the skin topically helps protect skin and temporarily relieves itching associated with:
- Insect and bug bites
- Sunburn
- Scrapes
- Minor skin irritations and burns
- Rashes caused by poison ivy, poison oak, and sumac
Find more information about uses and indications for BENADRYL® oral and topical products here.
What Forms Does Diphenhydramine HCl Come In?
Diphenhydramine in medicines can come in two main forms — oral and topical.
Oral diphenhydramine is available in different dosage forms including tablets, liquid gels, liquid medicine, and chewable tablets. Dosage forms are available for adults and children.
Topical diphenhydramine is available in cream, spray, stick, and gel to help relieve itchy skin.
Oral Allergy & Cold Symptom Relief Medicine
For temporary relief of allergy symptoms in adults and children 6 years and older, consider BENADRYL® Allergy ULTRATABS® Tablets or BENADRYL® Allergy Dye-Free LIQUI-GELS® with diphenhydramine 25 mg.
For children, BENADRYL® products can provide effective relief from hay fever and allergy symptoms. For children ages 6 to 11 years, consider Children’s BENADRYL® Allergy Liquid and Children’s BENADRYL® Dye-Free Allergy Liquid Antihistamine Medicine with diphenhydramine 12.5 mg per 5 mL. For adults and children 6 years and older, consider Children’s BENADRYL® Chewables with diphenhydramine 12.5 mg.
For allergy and cold symptom relief for adults and children 12 years and older, consider BENADRYL® Allergy Plus Congestion for Sinus Pressure & Nasal Congestion Relief. For adults and children 6 years and older, consider Children’s BENADRYL® Allergy Plus Congestion Nasal Decongestant & Sinus Medicine for Kids.
Topical Itchy Skin Relief
BENADRYL® topical products can provide temporary relief from pain and itching associated with insect bites, rashes, and minor skin irritations. To help protect skin and temporarily relieve itching, consider BENADRYL® Itch Stopping Cream or BENADRYL® Extra Strength Itch Stopping Cream.
Consider BENADRYL® Extra Strength Spray to quickly apply to your rash or insect bite as soon as itching starts.
For easy-to-apply immediate relief in stick form, consider BENADRYL® Extra Strength Itch Relief Stick for Rashes, Insect and Bug Bites. Or consider the soothing relief of gel with BENADRYL® Itch Stopping Gel Extra Strength Topical Analgesic Gel for Itchy Skin.
Diphenhydramine HCl Side-Effects, Safety, and Dosage
Just like with any medication you might take, sometimes diphenhydramine can cause side effects if misused. To avoid misuse, see the following warnings:
Do not use:
- To make a child sleepy
- With any other product containing diphenhydramine, even one used on skin
Ask a doctor before use if you have:
- A breathing problem such as emphysema or chronic bronchitis
- Glaucoma
- Trouble urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland
- Ask a doctor or pharmacist before use if you are taking sedatives or tranquilizers.
Diphenhydramine side effects and things to remember when using this product:
- Marked drowsiness may occur
- Avoid alcoholic drinks
- Alcohol, sedatives, and tranquilizers may increase drowsiness
- Be careful when driving a motor vehicle or operating machinery
- Excitability may occur, especially in children
If pregnant or breast-feeding, ask a health professional before use.
Keep out of reach of children. In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away. (1-800-222-1222)
You should also speak to your doctor before taking diphenhydramine if you’re allergic to any medications or taking another prescribed medication.
When taking diphenhydramine, alcohol, sedatives, and tranquilizers may increase drowsiness, so these should be avoided. Be careful when driving a motor vehicle or operating machinery.
The appropriate dosage of diphenhydramine depends on your age and symptoms.
Find the right BENADRYL® product to give you or your child relief, and carefully read and follow the entire product label before giving the medication.
The safety of the people who use our products is our top priority. To learn more about steps taken to address misuse and abuse of BENADRYL® and other diphenhydramine-containing products, visit our SAFETY page.
Diphenhydramine HCl FAQ
Can Diphenhydramine Make You Sleepy?
Yes, diphenhydramine can cause you to be drowsy or sleepy.
Does BENADRYL® Contain Diphenhydramine HCl?
Yes. Diphenhydramine HCl is the active ingredient in all BENADRYL® allergy medications. Our products contain diphenhydramine to provide relief from your allergy symptoms.
BENADRYL® Allergy Plus Congestion for Sinus Pressure & Nasal Congestion Relief and Children’s BENADRYL® Allergy Plus Congestion Nasal Decongestant & Sinus Medicine for Kids are medicines that contain diphenhydramine plus phenylephrine, which is a nasal decongestant.
BENADRYL® topical products, such as Original Strength BENADRYL® Itch Stopping Cream Topical Analgesic for Skin Relief, contain diphenhydramine as an analgesic, plus zinc acetate as a skin protectant.
What Is the Difference Between Diphenhydramine and Hydrocortisone Cream?
Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine, which works by blocking histamine from binding to h2 receptors in the body.
Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid, which is used on the skin to reduce swelling, redness, itching, and allergic reactions.2
What Can You Not Take with Diphenhydramine?
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using diphenhydramine if you are taking sedative or tranquilizers. Avoid consumption of alcohol with diphenhydramine as well, is this may increase drowsiness.
This may not encompass all possible interactions with diphenhydramine. Give your doctor or healthcare provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use.
1
At What Frequency Can Diphenhydramine 25 mg Be Taken?
Take every 4 to 6 hours, or as directed by a doctor. Do not take more than 6 times in 24 hours.
Where Can You Buy BENADRYL® (Diphenhydramine)?
BENADRYL® can often be found over-the-counter at your local pharmacy in the allergy medication section. You can also find out where to buy BENADRYL® medications online here.
Additional Resources
Find additional information about BENADRYL®’s inactive ingredients here.
Compare BENADRYL® (Diphenhydramine HCl) and other allergy relief products here.
Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page for additional answers to your questions about BENADRYL®.
Benadryl vs Diphenhydramine Comparison – Drugs.com
Benadryl vs Diphenhydramine Comparison – Drugs.com
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<p>
Benadryl may also be used for purposes not listed in this comparison guide.
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Sedation is a common side effect.</p>
<p>
Prescribed for Allergic Reactions, Allergic Rhinitis, Cough, Cold Symptoms, Insomnia, Eustachian Tube Dysfunction, Extrapyramidal Reaction, Motion Sickness, Nausea/Vomiting, Pruritus, Urticaria.
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diphenhydramine may also be used for purposes not listed in this comparison guide.
</p>
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Sedation is a common…
1 out of 10 from a total of
Use alcohol cautiously…** The Controlled Substances Act (CSA) schedule information displayed applies to substances regulated under federal law.
There may be variations in CSA schedules between individual states.
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
Medical Disclaimer
The use of diphenhydramine in the treatment of children with cancer
Antihistamine
Trademarks:
Benadryl®, Nytol®, PediaCare Children’s Allergy®, Unisom®
Other names:
Diphenhydramine hydrochloride
Often used for:
Relief of symptoms associated with allergies or hay fever, colds and allergic reactions
Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine: this drug works by blocking the activity of histamine, a substance that causes allergy symptoms.
Diphenhydramine can be used to treat a range of symptoms, including:
- Allergy and cold symptoms, including irritated and itchy eyes, sneezing and runny nose
- Cough
- Motion sickness and nausea
- Sleep disorders
- Motor problems
- Allergic reactions, including rash, itching, swelling
This drug is often given in combination with other drugs such as pain relievers, fever reducers, and decongestants.
This drug is available with and without a prescription.
Intramuscular or intravenous administration in liquid form
Oral in the form of tablets, capsules or lozenges/lozenges
Oral liquid form
- Nausea and vomiting
- Drowsiness or dizziness
- Constipation
- Headache
- Feeling tired
- Nervousness or excitability
- Increased nasal congestion or chest tightness
The listed side effects are not observed in all patients who are prescribed diphenhydramine. The most common side effects are highlighted in bold, but others are not excluded. Report all possible side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.
Be sure to discuss these and other recommendations with your doctor or pharmacist.
- Diphenhydramine is often used as needed.
- The family of a patient under 6 years of age should consult their physician or pharmacist before taking any medicine, including medicines obtained without a prescription. Calculate the dosage based on the available instructions and follow all recommendations for use.
- Take special care when taking more than one cold or allergy medicine at the same time. These products may contain the same ingredients, resulting in an overdose if they are taken together. Read the instructions on the package carefully and discuss any questions with your doctor or pharmacist.
Diphenhydramine home use:
- Do not exceed the recommended dose and frequency of use.
- If the drug causes stomach upset, it must be taken with food.
- Capsules should be swallowed whole. Do not crush or chew before taking.
- Chewable tablets should be completely chewed before swallowing.
- Resorbable tablets or lozenges should be kept on the tongue until completely dissolved, and then washed down with a sip of liquid.
- When taking diphenhydramine in liquid form, measure the dosage using the measuring device included in the kit.
- Store at room temperature.
- If you are taking diphenhydramine regularly, take your dose as soon as possible if you miss it. Do not do this only if there is little time left until the next appointment. In no case do not double the dose at the next dose!
- Do not use an expired drug.
- Follow instructions for safe storage and disposal of the drug.
Learn more about diphenhydramine
Diphenhydramine (DPH)
Diphenhydramine is a first generation antihistamine. Diphenhydramine is one of the main representatives of the group of antihistamines that block H1 receptors. It has a pronounced antihistamine activity. In addition, it has a local anesthetic effect, relaxes smooth muscles as a result of a direct antispasmodic action, moderately blocks the cholinergic receptors of the autonomic nerve ganglions.
An important feature of diphenhydramine is its sedative effect, which has some similarities with the action of neuroleptic substances; in appropriate doses, it has a hypnotic effect. It is also a mild antiemetic. In the action of diphenhydramine on the nervous system, along with the effect on histamine receptors (possibly H3 receptors in the brain), its central anticholinergic activity is of great importance.
When taken together, diphenhydramine enhances the effects of depressants such as alcohol, phenobarbital and benzodiazepine drugs. Also in experiments on rats, it was found that diphenhydramine enhances the analgesic effect induced by morphine, but not by endogenous opioids.
Diphenhydramine is mainly used in the treatment of urticaria, hay fever, serum sickness, hemorrhagic vasculitis (capillarotoxicosis), vasomotor rhinitis, angioedema, pruritic dermatoses, acute iridocyclitis, allergic conjunctivitis and other allergic diseases, allergic complications from taking various drugs, including antibiotics.
Like other antihistamines, diphenhydramine is used in the treatment of radiation sickness. In bronchial asthma, diphenhydramine is relatively inactive, but it can be prescribed for this disease in combination with theophylline, ephedrine and other drugs.
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