Diphenhydramine
Molecule Description
Diphenhydramine is an anti-allergic medicine widely used for the treatment of r
unning nose, itching, sleeplessness, skin rashes, insect bites, etc.
Uses of Diphenhydramine
- Sleep disturbances (insomnia)
- Allergic reactions
- Sickness, vomiting and ear disturbances, especially on traveling in automobiles, airplanes, etc. (motion sickness)
- Movement abnormalities, tremors, muscle stiffness, impaired speech (parkinsonism)
- Cough (in adolescents and adults above 12 years)
Contraindications of Diphenhydramine
When should one not use Diphenhydramine
- Allergy to Diphenhydramine or any of the components of the tablet
- Lung problems (asthma, etc.)
- A genetic disorder that causes accumulation of proteins required to make red blood cells (porphyria)
Side effects of Diphenhydramine
Common side effects of this drug are:
- Headache
- Dry mouth
- Rashes
- Decreased red blood cells and platelets (anemia and thrombocytopenia)
- Confusion, feeling dizzy
- Feeling sick, sleeplessness (insomnia), fatigue
- Weight loss
- Stomach pain
- Retention of urine
- Lung infections
Precautions and Warnings of Diphenhydramine
Pregnancy
Q:
Can I take Diphenhydramine during pregnancy?
A:
Diphenhydramine can be used in pregnancy but it is recommended to be cautious as it may cause drowsiness and decreased blood cell counts. If you are pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine.
Breast Feeding
Q:
Can I take Diphenhydramine while breastfeeding?
A:
Diphenhydramine is secreted in breast milk and is maybe harmful for infants. Hence do not breastfeed your baby while using this medicine.
Driving
Q:
Can I drive if I have consumed Diphenhydramine?
A:
Do not drive while taking Diphenhydramine. This medicine may lead to sleepiness or drowsiness soon after you take a dose.
Alcohol
Q:
Can I consume alcohol with Diphenhydramine?
A:
The use of alcohol, along with Diphenhydramine, is not recommended since the combination increases the risk of side-effects like dizziness and drowsiness.
Other General Warnings
Talk to your doctor if
- High blood pressure
- Asthma
- Thyroid problems
- Raised pressure in the eye (glaucoma)
- Enlarged prostate
- Urinary tract obstruction
Mode of Action of Diphenhydramine
How Does It Work?
Histamines are chemicals secreted by the immune system in response to any reaction or allergy. They cause symptoms such as itching, sneezing, rashes, running nose, etc. Diphenhydramine works by blocking natural histamine that is produced by our immune system....
Interactions of Diphenhydramine
Interactions with other medicines
- Chlorpheniramine (Avil – a medicine to treat certain allergies)
- Zolpidem (used to treat anxiety)
- Cephalothin (antibacterial)
- Amphotericin (antifungal)
- Hydrocortisone (used to treat allergic reactions)
- Certain medicines used to treat anxiety, seizures (Barbiturates – Phenobarbital, etc.)
Interactions with food items
Avoid alcohol beverages with Diphenhydramine because it can increase the brain and nervous system side effects.
Dosage of Diphenhydramine
Overdose
Accidental overdose will cause more drowsiness and may not be harmful. But high overdose can cause symptoms such as fever, reddened skin, agitation, tremors, etc. that may require medical attention. Inform your doctor immediately in the presence of any such symptoms....
Missed a Dose
Take the missed dose as early as you remember. Skip the missed dose and do not take extra medicine to compensate for the missed dose.
Content Details
WRITTEN BY
Dr. Mansi Savla
B. Pharm, PharmD
REVIEWED BY
Dr. Ritu Budania
MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I self-prescribe Diphendyramine?
A: Diphenhydramine is available as over the counter medicine and can be bought at convenience. But you are advised not to take the medicine without a prescription. If you have a minor complaint which does not require you to visit a doctor, do not use it for more than 2 weeks. Diphenhydramine causes some unwanted effects which can be harmful. Hence, it is not recommended for long-term usage without supervision.
Q: Is Diphenhydramine a sedative? Can I use it as a sleeping pill?
A: Diphenhydramine is predominantly an anti-allergic. It can help with your sleep if used occasionally. But, regular daily usage as a sleeping pill is not recommended as it may cause some potential side effects which can be dangerous for you.
References
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Disclaimer
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