Why is this medication prescribed?

Allergia-C, which contains diphenhydramine, is commonly prescribed for several reasons:

• Allergy Relief: It is primarily used to relieve symptoms of allergies, such as hay fever, allergic rhinitis, and allergic conjunctivitis. Diphenhydramine helps alleviate symptoms like sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose caused by allergic reactions to pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or other allergens.
• Motion Sickness: It can also be prescribed to prevent and treat motion sickness, including nausea, vomiting, and dizziness associated with traveling.
• Insomnia: Due to its sedative effects, diphenhydramine is sometimes used to treat temporary insomnia (short-term difficulty sleeping).
• Common Cold: It may be recommended for relieving symptoms of the common cold, such as coughing and congestion.
• Skin Conditions: In some cases, diphenhydramine can be used topically (applied to the skin) to relieve itching and discomfort from minor skin irritations, insect bites, or rash.

It’s important to note that while diphenhydramine can effectively manage these symptoms, it can cause drowsiness and should be used cautiously, especially when driving or operating machinery. Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider or on the medication label.

How should this medicine be used?

Allergia-C, which contains diphenhydramine, should be used according to the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider or as indicated on the medication label. Here are general guidelines for using diphenhydramine:

• Dosage: The dosage of diphenhydramine can vary depending on the condition being treated (e.g., allergies, motion sickness, insomnia) and your age. Always follow the recommended dosage instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist. Do not exceed the prescribed dosage.
• Administration: Diphenhydramine is typically taken orally (by mouth). It is available in various forms such as tablets, capsules, liquid suspension, and chewable tablets. Follow the specific instructions for the form you are using.
• Timing: For allergies and allergic reactions, diphenhydramine is usually taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed. For motion sickness, it is often taken 30 minutes to 1 hour before travel. For insomnia, it is generally taken before bedtime.
• Precautions: Diphenhydramine can cause drowsiness and impair your ability to perform tasks that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery. Avoid alcohol and other medications that also cause drowsiness while taking diphenhydramine.
• Duration: Use diphenhydramine for the shortest duration necessary to relieve your symptoms. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult your healthcare provider.
• Special Populations: Use caution in elderly patients and those with certain medical conditions (e.g., prostate enlargement, glaucoma) as diphenhydramine may exacerbate these conditions.
• Topical Use: If using diphenhydramine topically (on the skin), apply a thin layer to the affected area. Do not cover the area unless directed to do so by your doctor.

Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about how to use Allergia-C (Generic Diphenhydramine) or any medication. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific health needs and circumstances.

Other uses for this medicine

• Cold Symptoms: Diphenhydramine may be used to relieve symptoms associated with the common cold, such as coughing and congestion. It can help reduce nasal congestion and alleviate discomfort caused by cold symptoms.
• Itching and Skin Irritations: When applied topically, diphenhydramine can help relieve itching and discomfort from minor skin irritations, insect bites, or rash. It has a local anesthetic effect that can soothe the affected area.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions to follow when using Allergia-C (Generic Diphenhydramine):

• Drowsiness: Diphenhydramine can cause significant drowsiness and impair your ability to perform tasks that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery. Avoid consuming alcohol and other medications that also cause drowsiness while taking diphenhydramine.
• Elderly: Use caution in elderly patients, as they may be more sensitive to the sedative effects of diphenhydramine. Lower doses may be necessary.
• Children: Diphenhydramine should be used with caution in children, especially younger children, due to their increased susceptibility to its sedative effects. Dosage should be carefully adjusted based on age and weight, and it’s important to follow pediatric dosing guidelines.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any medical conditions, especially:
  • Prostate Enlargement: Diphenhydramine can worsen symptoms of prostate enlargement (benign prostatic hyperplasia).
  • Glaucoma: It can increase intraocular pressure and worsen symptoms of glaucoma.
  • Urinary Retention: Diphenhydramine may cause difficulty urinating, especially in men with prostate enlargement.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Use diphenhydramine during pregnancy and breastfeeding only if clearly needed and under the guidance of a healthcare provider. It may pass into breast milk and could have undesirable effects on a nursing infant.
• Allergies: Inform your doctor about any allergies you have, especially if you have had an allergic reaction to diphenhydramine or similar medications in the past.

Always follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist regarding the use of Allergia-C (Generic Diphenhydramine), and do not hesitate to ask questions if you have any concerns about its use or potential side effects.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are generally no specific dietary restrictions associated with the use of diphenhydramine. However, it’s always a good idea to maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated, especially if diphenhydramine causes dry mouth.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose.
• If it’s close to your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time.
• Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one, as this can increase the risk of side effects.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Allergia-C, which contains diphenhydramine, can cause several side effects. Common side effects include:

• Drowsiness: This is one of the most common side effects of diphenhydramine. It can impair your ability to concentrate and perform activities requiring mental alertness, such as driving or operating machinery.
• Dry Mouth: Diphenhydramine can reduce saliva production, leading to a dry mouth sensation.
• Dizziness: Some people may experience dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when getting up from a lying or sitting position.
• Blurred Vision: Diphenhydramine can temporarily affect vision, causing blurred vision or difficulty focusing.
• Constipation: It may cause constipation, particularly if used for an extended period.
• Urinary Retention: In some individuals, diphenhydramine can cause difficulty urinating, especially in men with prostate enlargement.
• Confusion or Delirium: Particularly in older adults, diphenhydramine can sometimes cause confusion, agitation, or delirium.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Some people may experience gastrointestinal upset, including nausea and vomiting.
• Increased Heart Rate: Diphenhydramine can occasionally lead to an increase in heart rate (tachycardia).
• Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to diphenhydramine, characterized by rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.

It’s essential to monitor for these side effects when taking Allergia-C and to report any concerning symptoms to your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are rare but can occur, especially with high doses or prolonged use. Always follow your doctor’s instructions regarding dosage and usage to minimize the risk of adverse effects. If you experience severe side effects or signs of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention.

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

Storage and Disposal:

• Storage: Store Allergia-C (diphenhydramine) at room temperature away from light and moisture. Follow any specific storage instructions provided on the medication packaging. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired Allergia-C properly to prevent accidental ingestion by children or pets. You can check with your local pharmacy or healthcare provider for guidance on how to safely dispose of medications. Do not flush medications down the toilet unless instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Symptoms of Overdose: Symptoms of diphenhydramine overdose may include extreme drowsiness, confusion, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, seizures, difficulty breathing, and loss of consciousness.
• Call Emergency Services: Dial emergency services (911 in the US) immediately for assistance.
• Poison Control Center: Contact the poison control center in your area for guidance on what steps to take next. In the US, you can reach Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222.
• Do Not Delay: Prompt medical attention is crucial in case of overdose to minimize potential harm.

What other information should I know?

• Avoid Alcohol: As mentioned earlier, avoid consuming alcohol while taking Allergia-C (diphenhydramine) due to increased risk of drowsiness and impaired coordination.
• Medical Alerts: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to avoid potential drug interactions.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Discuss with your doctor before using Allergia-C if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Use should be based on a thorough assessment of risks and benefits.
• Driving and Activities: Due to its sedative effects, avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how Allergia-C affects you. Be cautious with activities requiring mental alertness.
• Follow Instructions: Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Do not exceed the recommended dose unless instructed to do so.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor about any medical conditions you have, especially asthma, glaucoma, prostate enlargement, and urinary problems, as these may affect your use of Allergia-C.

By following these guidelines and staying informed about Allergia-C, you can use it safely and effectively to manage your symptoms. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider or pharmacist for clarification and guidance.