Why is this medication prescribed?

Diphenhydramine is commonly prescribed for several reasons, primarily because of its antihistamine properties. It is used to treat symptoms associated with allergies, such as sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose. Additionally, diphenhydramine is often used to relieve symptoms of the common cold, hay fever, and other respiratory allergies. It can also be used to alleviate symptoms of motion sickness, induce sleep, and treat mild forms of Parkinson’s disease.

How should this medicine be used?

When using diphenhydramine, it’s crucial to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or the directions on the medication label carefully. Here are some general guidelines for using diphenhydramine:

• Dosage: The dosage of diphenhydramine varies depending on age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Always use the dose prescribed by your doctor or follow the directions on the product label.
• Administration: Diphenhydramine is typically taken orally in the form of tablets, capsules, or liquid. It can be taken with or without food. If you’re using the liquid form, measure the dose carefully using a medication spoon or cup.
• Frequency: The frequency of administration also depends on the condition being treated. It may be taken multiple times a day for allergies or as needed for sleep aid. Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding the frequency of dosing.
• Sleep Aid: If using diphenhydramine as a sleep aid, it’s generally recommended to take it 30 minutes before bedtime. However, it’s essential not to exceed the recommended dosage, as it can lead to adverse effects and dependence.
• Motion Sickness: For motion sickness prevention, diphenhydramine is typically taken 30 minutes to one hour before travel. Again, follow dosage instructions carefully.
• Avoid Alcohol: It’s essential to avoid alcohol while taking diphenhydramine, as it can increase drowsiness and impair your ability to perform tasks requiring mental alertness, such as driving or operating machinery.
• Consultation: Always consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about the appropriate use of diphenhydramine, especially if you have other medical conditions or are taking other medications.

Remember, diphenhydramine may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision, so it’s important to avoid activities requiring alertness until you know how the medication affects you. Additionally, misuse or overdose of diphenhydramine can be harmful, so always use it as directed by your healthcare provider.

Other uses for this medicine

Some of these alternative uses include:

• Treatment of Itching and Skin Conditions: Diphenhydramine can be applied topically in the form of creams or lotions to relieve itching associated with insect bites, minor skin irritations, or allergic reactions.
• Treatment of Nausea and Vomiting: Diphenhydramine may be used in combination with other medications to alleviate nausea and vomiting caused by motion sickness or certain medical conditions.
• Management of Parkinson’s Disease: Diphenhydramine may be used to help manage symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, such as tremors and muscle stiffness.

What special precautions should I follow?

As with any medication, there are special precautions to consider when using diphenhydramine. Here are some important points to keep in mind:

• Allergies: Before taking diphenhydramine, inform your healthcare provider if you have any allergies, especially to antihistamines or any other medications.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor about any medical conditions you have, such as asthma, glaucoma, urinary retention, high blood pressure, heart disease, liver disease, or hyperthyroidism, as diphenhydramine may not be suitable for individuals with these conditions or may require dosage adjustments.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using diphenhydramine, as its safety during pregnancy and lactation is not well-established.
• Children and Elderly: Use caution when giving diphenhydramine to children and elderly individuals, as they may be more sensitive to its effects and more prone to side effects such as drowsiness, confusion, and constipation.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all the medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are taking, as diphenhydramine may interact with certain drugs, including sedatives, tranquilizers, antidepressants, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).
• Alcohol and CNS Depressants: Avoid consuming alcohol and other central nervous system (CNS) depressants while taking diphenhydramine, as they can enhance its sedative effects and increase the risk of drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Diphenhydramine may impair your ability to perform tasks requiring mental alertness, such as driving or operating machinery. Avoid these activities until you know how diphenhydramine affects you.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidance when using diphenhydramine, and don’t hesitate to ask if you have any questions or concerns about its use or potential side effects.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary instructions for diphenhydramine. However, it’s essential to avoid consuming large amounts of alcohol or other CNS depressants, as mentioned previously, as they can interact with diphenhydramine and increase the risk of adverse effects.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of diphenhydramine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you have any concerns or questions about missed doses, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Diphenhydramine, like any medication, can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects of diphenhydramine include:

• Drowsiness: Diphenhydramine is known for its sedative effects, which can lead to drowsiness or sleepiness, particularly at higher doses.
• Dry Mouth: Diphenhydramine can reduce saliva production, resulting in a dry mouth sensation.
• Blurred Vision: Diphenhydramine may cause temporary changes in vision, such as blurred vision or difficulty focusing.
• Dizziness: Some individuals may experience dizziness or lightheadedness while taking diphenhydramine.
• Constipation: Diphenhydramine can slow down bowel movements, leading to constipation in some people.
• Urinary Retention: In rare cases, diphenhydramine may cause difficulty urinating or urinary retention, particularly in men with prostate enlargement.
• Confusion or Disorientation: Diphenhydramine can affect cognitive function in some individuals, leading to confusion or disorientation, especially in older adults.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Some people may experience gastrointestinal upset, including nausea and vomiting, while taking diphenhydramine.
• Increased Heart Rate: In some cases, diphenhydramine may cause a temporary increase in heart rate or palpitations.
• Allergic Reactions: Although rare, allergic reactions to diphenhydramine can occur and may manifest as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction.

It’s essential to be aware of these potential side effects when taking diphenhydramine. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, or if you have concerns about the medication, consult your healthcare provider for advice. Additionally, remember that this list may not include all possible side effects, so it’s essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor or pharmacist.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and disposal of diphenhydramine:

• Storage: Store diphenhydramine at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the medication tightly closed in its original container, out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired diphenhydramine properly to prevent accidental ingestion by others. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Check with your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for proper disposal instructions.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of emergency or overdose of diphenhydramine:

• Seek Medical Help: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, seizures, loss of consciousness, or severe dizziness, seek immediate medical attention by calling emergency services or going to the nearest emergency room.
• Poison Control: If you suspect an overdose but the symptoms are not severe, you can also contact your local poison control center or the National Poison Control Hotline at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance on what to do next.

What other information should I know?

• Avoid Driving and Operating Machinery: Diphenhydramine can cause drowsiness and impair your ability to perform tasks requiring mental alertness, such as driving or operating machinery. Avoid these activities until you know how diphenhydramine affects you.
• Limit Alcohol Consumption: Avoid consuming alcohol while taking diphenhydramine, as it can enhance its sedative effects and increase the risk of drowsiness and dizziness.
• Medical Alert Bracelet: If you have a medical condition that requires you to carry an emergency identification card or wear a medical alert bracelet (e.g., severe allergies, epilepsy), ensure that this information is up to date and easily accessible in case of emergencies.
• Follow Instructions: Always follow your doctor’s instructions and the directions on the medication label carefully when taking diphenhydramine. Do not exceed the recommended dosage or use it for longer than prescribed.
• Consult Healthcare Provider: If you have any questions or concerns about diphenhydramine or its use, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

By following these guidelines and being informed about the proper storage, disposal, and actions to take in case of emergencies or overdose, you can use diphenhydramine safely and effectively.