Benadryl
Generic Name:
Brand Names:
- Benadryl Allergy Kapgels
- Benadryl Allergy Plus Cold Kapgels
- Benadryl Allergy Plus Sinus Headache Kapgels
- Benadryl Allergy Quick Dissolve Strips
- Benadryl Allergy Ultratab
- Benadryl Anti-Itch Gel for Kids
- Benadryl Dye-Free Allergy Liqui-Gels
- Benadryl Extra Strength Itch Relief Stick
- Benadryl Extra Strength Spray
- Benadryl Itch Stopping Gel Extra Strength
- Benadryl Readymist Itch Stopping Spray
- Benadryl Severe Allergy Plus Sinus Headache
- Benadryl-D Allergy Plus Sinus
- Children's Benadryl Allergy Chewables
- Children's Benadryl Allergy Fastmelt Tablets
- Children's Benadryl Allergy Liquid
- Children's Benadryl Dry-Free Allergy Liquid
- Children's Benadryl Perfect Measure Pre-Filled Spoons
- Children's Benadryl-D Allergy & Sinus Liquid
- Extra Strength Benadryl Itch Stopping Cream
- Original Strength Benadryl Itch Stopping Cream
- Benadryl (injection)
- Benadryl Preservative Free (injection)
Benadryl Description:
Benadryl is an antihistamine medication primarily used for the temporary relief of seasonal and perennial allergy symptoms. It may also be used to relieve irritation or itching due to insect stings or other minor allergic-type reactions.
Benadryl is the brand name form of diphenhydramine, a substance which works to block the effects of histamine, a chemical that triggers an inflammatory response in the body. Benadryl is available over-the-counter in oral, topical, and injection forms.
Benadryl Side Effects:
Common side effects of diphenhydramine include:
- Drowsiness
- Sedation
- Dry mouth, throat, and nose
- Dizziness
- Decreased coordination
- Thickening of bronchial secretions
For more information, see our Benadryl side effects page.
Benadryl Uses:
When taken orally, Benadryl is typically used to treat the symptoms of allergies, hay fever, and the common cold, which may include:
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Itching, watery eyes
- Hives or rash
- Itching
Benadryl injections may be used as a treatment for motion sickness or in some cases of parkinsonism when oral treatment is not recommended.
Benadryl Interactions:
There is an additive effect when Benadryl is combined with CNS depressants such as hypnotics, sedatives, and tranquilizers. Side effects such as drowsiness can be worsened if these drugs are combined.
Tell your doctor about all prescription and non-prescription medications you may be taking along with Benadryl, including vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products. The following drugs may interact with this medication:
- Antihistamines
- Antispasmodics and anti-seizure drugs (atropine, belladonna alkaloids)
- Anti-anxiety medications
- Parkinson’s disease drugs (anticholinergics, benztropine, trihexyphenidyl)
- MAO inhibitors (furazolidone, isocarboxazid, linezolid, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, rasagiline, selegiline, tranylcypromine)
- Muscle relaxants
- Narcotic pain relievers
- Scopolamine
- Sleep medicines
- Sodium oxybate (GHB)
- Other products containing diphenhydramine (including skin products)
- Tricyclic antidepressants (amitriptyline)
Benadryl Dosage Information:
Typical Dosage Recommendations
Benadryl dosages may vary among patients and the condition being treated. Please see product labeling for all dosage information or consult your doctor.
Missing a Dose of Benadryl
If you miss a dose of Benadryl, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and wait to return to your regular dosing schedule.
Benadryl Overdose
Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medication.
Benadryl FDA Approval:
August 24, 1972 (oral capsule)
February 10, 1982 (oral elixir)
November 20, 1998 (injection)
Benadryl Recall/Black Box Warning Information:
There is currently no black box warning on Benadryl.
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May 9, 2011, 1:27 pm
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May 6, 2011, 1:37 pm
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May 5, 2011, 12:55 pm
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May 4, 2011, 1:29 pm
