Why is this medication prescribed?

Diphenhydramine in combination with acetaminophen is typically prescribed for its dual action in treating certain conditions. This combination is used primarily for:

• Pain Relief: Acetaminophen (paracetamol) is a common pain reliever and fever reducer. When combined with diphenhydramine, it can provide relief from mild to moderate pain, such as headaches, muscle aches, and menstrual cramps.
• Allergy Relief: Diphenhydramine, as mentioned earlier, helps to alleviate symptoms of allergies, such as sneezing, itching, and runny nose.
• Insomnia Relief: Diphenhydramine’s sedative effects are also beneficial in helping individuals with insomnia (difficulty sleeping).

The combination of acetaminophen and diphenhydramine in one medication allows for convenience in treating multiple symptoms simultaneously, such as pain and allergic reactions, while also providing a potential aid for sleeplessness. However, it’s important to use this medication as directed by a healthcare provider to avoid potential side effects or interactions with other medications.

How should this medicine be used?

Diphenhydramine is typically used according to the following guidelines:

• Dosage: The dosage of diphenhydramine can vary depending on the condition being treated and the age of the patient. Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider or as indicated on the medication label.
• Formulations: Diphenhydramine is available in various forms such as tablets, capsules, liquid, and dissolvable strips. Choose the appropriate form based on your needs and preferences.
• Timing: For allergies, motion sickness, or insomnia, diphenhydramine is usually taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed. It can be taken with or without food.
• Insomnia: If using diphenhydramine for sleep, it is typically taken 30 minutes to an hour before bedtime.
• Avoid Alcohol: Do not consume alcohol while taking diphenhydramine, as it can increase drowsiness and impair coordination.
• Use in Children: Use caution when giving diphenhydramine to children, as the dosage is based on their age and weight. Follow pediatrician’s recommendations closely.
• Duration: Diphenhydramine is usually intended for short-term use. If symptoms persist, consult a healthcare provider.
• Special Considerations: Individuals with certain medical conditions (e.g., glaucoma, enlarged prostate, asthma) or who are taking other medications should consult a healthcare provider before using diphenhydramine to ensure it is safe and appropriate for them.

Always read the medication label and any accompanying patient information for specific instructions and warnings. If you have any questions or concerns about the use of diphenhydramine, consult your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your individual needs.

Other uses for this medicine

• Anxiety: In some cases, diphenhydramine’s sedative effects can be used to help manage anxiety.
• Parkinson’s Disease: It may be used to alleviate tremors and muscle stiffness in Parkinson’s disease.
• Pruritus (Itching): Diphenhydramine can effectively reduce itching from insect bites, hives, or other allergic reactions.

What special precautions should I follow?

When using diphenhydramine, it’s essential to take certain precautions:

• Drowsiness: Diphenhydramine causes drowsiness and can impair your ability to perform tasks requiring alertness, such as driving. Avoid activities that require mental alertness until you know how diphenhydramine affects you.
• Avoid Alcohol: Alcohol can intensify the drowsiness caused by diphenhydramine and increase the risk of side effects. It’s advisable to avoid alcohol while taking diphenhydramine.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any medical conditions, especially asthma, glaucoma, urinary retention, high blood pressure, heart disease, or hyperthyroidism. These conditions may affect the safety and effectiveness of diphenhydramine.
• Other Medications: Diphenhydramine may interact with other medications, including antidepressants, sedatives, tranquilizers, and certain antihypertensive drugs. Consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before taking diphenhydramine if you are already taking other medications.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: It’s important to discuss the use of diphenhydramine with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. While diphenhydramine is generally considered safe during pregnancy when used as directed, it’s crucial to weigh the potential benefits and risks.
• Children and Older Adults: Use caution when giving diphenhydramine to children and older adults, as they may be more sensitive to its effects. Follow dosage instructions carefully and consider their individual health status.
• Overdose: Taking more than the recommended dose of diphenhydramine can lead to serious health problems, including overdose. Seek medical attention immediately if you suspect an overdose or experience symptoms such as severe drowsiness, confusion, agitation, hallucinations, seizures, or difficulty breathing.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and read the medication label carefully for specific precautions and warnings related to diphenhydramine use.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are generally no specific dietary restrictions for diphenhydramine. However, it’s important 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 Possible: If it is close to the time of your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule.
• Do Not Double Up: Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Taking too much diphenhydramine can increase the risk of side effects and complications.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Diphenhydramine, like any medication, can cause side effects. These can vary in severity and may include:

• Drowsiness: This is one of the most common side effects of diphenhydramine. It can impair your ability to perform tasks requiring alertness, such as driving.
• Dry Mouth, Nose, and Throat: Diphenhydramine can reduce saliva production, leading to dryness in the mouth, nose, and throat.
• Blurred Vision: It may cause temporary blurred vision or difficulty focusing.
• Constipation: Diphenhydramine can slow down bowel movements, leading to constipation.
• Urinary Retention: In some individuals, diphenhydramine can cause difficulty urinating or urinary retention.
• Dizziness: Some people may experience dizziness or lightheadedness while taking diphenhydramine.
• Nausea and Vomiting: These gastrointestinal symptoms can occur, especially at higher doses.
• Confusion or Delirium: Particularly in older adults, diphenhydramine can cause confusion, agitation, or delirium.
• Increased Heart Rate: It may occasionally lead to palpitations or a rapid heart rate.
• Allergic Reaction: Although rare, some individuals may experience an allergic reaction to diphenhydramine, characterized by rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
• Other: Other less common side effects can include headache, nervousness, excitability (especially in children), ringing in the ears, and changes in appetite.

It’s essential to monitor for any side effects while taking diphenhydramine and to report any concerns to your healthcare provider. Serious side effects such as severe drowsiness, difficulty breathing, or chest pain require immediate medical attention.

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

Storage and Disposal:

Storage:

• Keep in a Secure Location: Store diphenhydramine in a secure place out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Room Temperature: Store diphenhydramine at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Avoid storing it in the bathroom.
• Original Container: Keep diphenhydramine in its original container with the lid tightly closed to protect it from light and moisture.
• Expired Medication: Dispose of expired diphenhydramine properly. Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Disposal:

• Unused Medication: If you no longer need diphenhydramine or it has expired, follow local guidelines for proper disposal. This may include taking it to a medication take-back program or using a drug disposal location.
• Do Not Flush: Do not flush diphenhydramine down the toilet unless instructed to do so by specific disposal instructions.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Immediate Help: If you suspect an overdose of diphenhydramine or if someone has accidentally ingested it, call emergency services (911 in the US) or your local poison control center immediately.
• Symptoms of Overdose: Symptoms may include severe drowsiness, confusion, agitation, hallucinations, seizures, difficulty breathing, and loss of consciousness.

What other information should I know?

• Medical Alert: Inform healthcare providers (including dentists and pharmacists) about your use of diphenhydramine before undergoing any medical procedures or surgeries.
• Avoid Driving: Due to its sedative effects, diphenhydramine can impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid these activities until you know how diphenhydramine affects you.
• Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol while taking diphenhydramine, as it can intensify drowsiness and other side effects.
• Monitoring: Regularly monitor for any side effects or changes in your condition while taking diphenhydramine. Report any concerns to your healthcare provider.
• Interactions: Be cautious about potential interactions with other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements. Consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
• Allergic Reactions: If you have had an allergic reaction to diphenhydramine or any other antihistamines in the past, inform your healthcare provider before starting diphenhydramine.

Always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider and read the medication label carefully. If you have any questions or concerns about diphenhydramine, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance tailored to your specific situation.