Benadryl: What Is It? What Is It Used For? Dosage Instructions, Side Effects, and Warnings
- Active Ingredient: Diphenhydramine
- Indications:
- Allergy Relief: Used for the relief of symptoms associated with hay fever, allergic rhinitis, and other allergic conditions, such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy or watery eyes.
- Sleep Aid: Helps in the short-term treatment of insomnia by causing drowsiness.
- Motion Sickness: Prevents and treats nausea, vomiting, and dizziness caused by motion sickness.
- Cough Suppressant: Sometimes used to alleviate dry coughs due to its sedative effect.
- Dosage Instructions:
- Adults: 25-50 mg orally every 4-6 hours as needed, not exceeding 300 mg per day.
- Children: Children 6-12 years: 12.5-25 mg every 4-6 hours as needed, not exceeding 150 mg per day.
- Special Instructions: It is recommended not to drive or operate machinery after taking this medication due to its sedative effects. Do not exceed the recommended dose.
- Side Effects:
- Common: Drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, blurred vision.
- Less common: Nausea, vomiting, constipation, urinary retention.
- Rare but serious: Allergic reactions such as rash, hives, or swelling, particularly in the face or throat.
- If any severe side effects occur, seek immediate medical attention.
- Warnings:
- Caution in Older Adults: Older adults may be more susceptible to the sedative effects and the risk of confusion, dizziness, and falls.
- Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: It should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Consult a doctor before using during breastfeeding.
- Pre-existing Conditions: Caution is advised in people with a history of glaucoma, breathing problems (e.g., asthma), or bladder problems.
- Sedative Effects: May impair your ability to perform tasks that require full alertness, like driving.
- Drug Interactions:
- Other Sedatives: Combining with other sedating medications (e.g., alcohol, sleeping pills, or other antihistamines) can increase drowsiness and impair cognitive function.
- Antidepressants: Can interact with certain antidepressants, increasing the risk of side effects like dry mouth, confusion, and blurred vision.
- Always inform your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking.
- Storage Instructions:
- Keep at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and direct light.
- Store in a place where it is out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.
- Expiration Date:
- Check the expiration date on the packaging. Do not use after the expiration date as it may not be effective or safe.