Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Diphenhydramine serves various purposes in relieving symptoms associated with allergies, hay fever, and the common cold. It is used to alleviate red, irritated, itchy, and watery eyes, sneezing, runny nose, and cough due to minor throat or airway irritation. Belonging to the class of medications called antihistamines, diphenhydramine operates by blocking the action of histamine, a substance in the body responsible for allergic symptoms.
Uses and Dosage
Diphenhydramine is available in various forms, including tablets, rapidly disintegrating tablets, capsules, liquid-filled capsules, dissolving strips, powder, and liquid, for oral consumption. The dosing schedule varies depending on the condition being treated.
Diphenhydramine may be available alone or in combination with pain relievers, fever reducers, and decongestants. Seek advice from your doctor or pharmacist to determine the most suitable product for your symptoms.
Exercise caution when using multiple cough and cold products simultaneously, as they may contain the same active ingredients, potentially leading to overdose. This is especially important when administering cough and cold medications to children.
Nonprescription cough and cold combination products, including those containing diphenhydramine, can pose serious side effects or even be fatal in young children. Refrain from giving these products to children under 4 years of age. For children aged 4 to 11 years, use caution and adhere strictly to the package directions.
Before administering diphenhydramine or a combination product containing it to a child, carefully review the package label to ensure it is appropriate for the child’s age. Avoid giving adult-formulated diphenhydramine products to children.
When measuring liquid medication, use the provided measuring spoon or cup rather than a household spoon.
For dissolving strips, place them on the tongue one at a time and swallow after they melt. For rapidly dissolving tablets, place one on the tongue and allow it to dissolve quickly before swallowing, with or without water.
Swallow capsules whole without attempting to break them.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- dry mouth, nose, and throat
- drowsiness
- dizziness
- nausea
- vomiting
- loss of appetite
- constipation
- increased chest congestion
- headache
- muscle weakness
- excitement (especially in children)
- nervousness
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- vision problems
- difficulty urinating or painful urination
Caution
- Before taking diphenhydramine, it’s essential to inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have, specifically to diphenhydramine or dimenhydrinate, as well as any other allergies.
- Provide your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have breathing problems, high pressure in the eye (glaucoma), heart problems, high blood pressure, liver disease, seizures, stomach/intestine issues, overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), or difficulty urinating.
- This medication may induce dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. The combination of alcohol or marijuana with this drug can intensify these effects. Refrain from activities requiring alertness or clear vision, and avoid alcoholic beverages.
- Certain formulations of diphenhydramine, such as liquid products, chewable tablets, or dissolving tablets/strips, may contain sugar and/or aspartame. Liquid products may also contain alcohol. If you have diabetes, liver disease, phenylketonuria (PKU), or any other condition requiring you to limit or avoid these substances in your diet, exercise caution. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance on using this product safely.
- Children may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, and it can sometimes cause excitement in young children instead of drowsiness.
- Older adults may also be more sensitive to the side effects of diphenhydramine, including drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, constipation, or trouble urinating. These effects can increase the risk of falling.
- During pregnancy, use this medication only when absolutely necessary. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
- Diphenhydramine passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Benadryl Liquid Elixir is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Benadryl Liquid Elixir liquid:
- 12.5 mg / 5 mL
FAQ
Can I use Benadryl to fall asleep?
Yes. Benadryl is the main ingredient in several OTC sleep aids. Keep in mind, these products should only be used by people that are 12 years of age and older. And only occasionally to help with sleep.
Is it safe to use Benadryl for a long time?
No. Benadryl should only be used for short-term problems with allergy, cold symptoms, or sleep. So you should stop using it once your cold or allergy symptoms go away.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/diphenhydramine/what-is#faqs
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/20500-diphenhydramine-syrup-or-elixir
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-5680/benadryl-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682539.html
- https://www.drugs.com/cdi/diphenhydramine-elixir-liquid-and-syrup.html
