General information:
Benadryl
is an antihistamine that is used to treat sneezing, runny nose, itching, hives,
watery eyes and other symptoms of a cold. This medication works by inhibiting a
natural substance histamine that your body releases during an allergic
reaction. It also blocks neurotransmitter called acetylcholine, which results
in treating symptoms like watery eyes and runny nose.
This medication
comes in many forms:
●
Oral: tablets, liqui-gels, chewable tablets, liquid solutions
● Topical: gel, spray,
cream, stick
The active
ingredient is diphenhydramine, while inactive ingredients vary considerably as
the medication comes in many forms.
Dosage and indications:
The dosage
of this medication depends on many factors: your age, your medical condition,
the form of Benadryl you are prescribed.
The
information below shows the recommended dosages that are commonly used. You
should always consult your doctor for more precise instructions.
If you
want to treat hay fever and allergy, the typical dose for adults is 25 to 50 mg
every 4 to 6 hours. For children aged between 6 and 11, the dose is 12.5 to
25mg every 4 to 6 hours.
If you are
treating common cold symptoms, the usual dosage for adults is 25 to 50 mg, for
children (6-11 y.o.) 12.5 to 25 mg every 4 to 6 hours.
If you are
dealing with pain and itchy skin from hives, insect bites, adults should apply
Benadryl cream, spray or gel onto the affected area up to 3-4 times a day. The
dosage for children aged 2 and older is the same as adults’.
Side effects:
Common
side effects are:
●
Dry mouth
●
Sleepiness
●
Weakness
●
Headache
● Dizziness
Serious
side effects are very rare, including:
●
Dementia
●
Decreased memory
●
Confusion
●
Seizures
● Increased heart rate
Precautions:
●
Tell your doctor if you have diabetes, as liquid products and
chewable tablets may contain sugar in them
●
Be especially careful giving Benadryl to children, as they are
more sensitive to side effects
●
Old people are more sensitive to side effects such as
drowsiness, dizziness, confusion or trouble urinating.
●
Limit alcohol intake and smoking while taking this drug
●
It is not recommended to drive or do anything that requires
clear vision, as the drug may cause blurred vision
● When pregnant, use this
medication only if clearly needed
