Why is this medication prescribed?

Diphenhydramine is commonly prescribed for several reasons:

• Allergies: It’s often used to relieve symptoms of allergic reactions such as itching, rash, hives, and sneezing.
• Insomnia: Due to its sedative properties, diphenhydramine is sometimes used as a sleep aid for short-term insomnia.
• Motion Sickness: It can help alleviate symptoms of motion sickness, such as nausea and vomiting.
• Common Cold: Diphenhydramine may be used to relieve symptoms like runny nose and sneezing associated with the common cold.
• Parkinson’s Disease: In some cases, it’s prescribed to manage symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, particularly tremors.

How should this medicine be used?

Diphenhydramine is typically used as follows:

• Allergies: For allergy relief, the usual adult dosage is 25 to 50 mg every 4 to 6 hours as needed. However, dosages may vary depending on the severity of symptoms and individual response. Always follow your doctor’s instructions or the dosage directions on the label.
• Insomnia: As a sleep aid, diphenhydramine is often taken in doses of 25 to 50 mg about 30 minutes before bedtime. It’s essential not to take more than the recommended dose or use it for an extended period without consulting a healthcare professional.
• Motion Sickness: To alleviate symptoms of motion sickness, the typical adult dosage is 25 to 50 mg every 4 to 6 hours as needed. It’s usually taken 30 minutes before travel to prevent motion sickness.
• Common Cold: Diphenhydramine may be used to relieve cold symptoms such as runny nose and sneezing. The dosage is similar to that for allergy relief, typically 25 to 50 mg every 4 to 6 hours as needed.
• Parkinson’s Disease: In Parkinson’s disease management, diphenhydramine may be prescribed at higher doses and under the supervision of a healthcare provider to help manage tremors and other symptoms.

Always take diphenhydramine exactly as prescribed by your doctor or as directed on the label. Do not exceed the recommended dosage, as it can lead to adverse effects or overdose. If you have any questions or concerns about how to use diphenhydramine, consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

Other uses for this medicine

Besides its primary uses for allergies and as a sleep aid, diphenhydramine may also be used for other purposes, including:

• Itch Relief: Diphenhydramine’s antihistamine properties make it effective in reducing itching associated with insect bites, poison ivy, or other skin irritations.
• Anxiety: In some cases, diphenhydramine’s sedative effects may be utilized to alleviate mild anxiety or nervousness.
• Preoperative Sedation: It may be administered before surgery to help calm patients and induce drowsiness.
• Treatment of Extrapyramidal Symptoms: Diphenhydramine can be used to manage extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) caused by certain medications, particularly antipsychotics or antiemetics.

What special precautions should I follow?

As for precautions, here are some important points to consider when using diphenhydramine:

• Drowsiness: Diphenhydramine can cause drowsiness and impair your ability to operate machinery or drive safely. Avoid engaging in activities that require alertness until you know how diphenhydramine affects you.
• Avoid Alcohol: Alcohol can enhance the sedative effects of diphenhydramine, increasing drowsiness and impairing coordination and judgment. Avoid alcohol consumption while taking diphenhydramine.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any medical conditions, especially asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), glaucoma, enlarged prostate, urinary retention, high blood pressure, or liver disease. Diphenhydramine may exacerbate certain medical conditions or interact with other medications.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor before using diphenhydramine if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. While diphenhydramine is generally considered safe during pregnancy when used as directed, it’s essential to discuss potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.
• Interactions: Inform your doctor about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking, as diphenhydramine may interact with certain medications, including other antihistamines, sedatives, tranquilizers, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).

Always use diphenhydramine as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. If you experience any concerning side effects or have questions about its use, consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding dietary instructions, there are no specific dietary restrictions associated with diphenhydramine. However, it’s always a good idea to maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated while taking any medication.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of diphenhydramine:

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

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 may include:

• Drowsiness: This is one of the most common side effects of diphenhydramine and can impair your ability to perform tasks requiring alertness.
• Dry mouth, nose, or throat: Diphenhydramine can cause dryness in these areas, leading to discomfort.
• Blurred vision: Some people may experience temporary blurred vision while taking diphenhydramine.
• Constipation: Diphenhydramine can slow down bowel movements, leading to constipation in some individuals.
• Difficulty urinating: In some cases, diphenhydramine can cause urinary retention or difficulty urinating, particularly in men with an enlarged prostate.
• Dizziness or lightheadedness: Some people may feel dizzy or lightheaded when taking diphenhydramine.
• Nausea or vomiting: These gastrointestinal symptoms can occur in some individuals.
• Headache: Headaches are a possible side effect of diphenhydramine use.
• Loss of appetite: Some people may experience a decreased appetite while taking diphenhydramine.

Less common but more severe side effects of diphenhydramine may include:

• Allergic reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to diphenhydramine, characterized by rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction.
• Confusion or hallucinations: Diphenhydramine can sometimes cause confusion or hallucinations, particularly in older adults.
• Irregular heartbeat: In rare cases, diphenhydramine may cause changes in heart rhythm, leading to palpitations or an irregular heartbeat.

If you experience any concerning side effects while taking diphenhydramine, contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance. Additionally, if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or concerns about potential side effects, discuss them with your doctor before starting diphenhydramine.

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

Storage and Disposal:

• Storage: Store diphenhydramine at room temperature away from light and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children and pets. Do not store it in the bathroom or near the kitchen sink, where it could be exposed to moisture.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired diphenhydramine properly according to local regulations or medication take-back programs. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal facility for guidance on safe disposal methods.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek immediate medical attention: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, seizures, loss of consciousness, or severe drowsiness, call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room right away.
• Poison control: You can also contact your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance on what to do in case of an overdose. Be prepared to provide information about the amount of diphenhydramine ingested and any symptoms experienced.

What other information should I know?

• Avoid driving or operating machinery: Diphenhydramine can cause drowsiness and impair your ability to perform tasks requiring alertness. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities that require mental alertness until you know how diphenhydramine affects you.
• Limit alcohol consumption: Alcohol can enhance the sedative effects of diphenhydramine, increasing drowsiness and impairing coordination and judgment. Avoid alcohol while taking diphenhydramine.
• Medical alert bracelet: If you have a history of severe allergic reactions or other medical conditions, consider wearing a medical alert bracelet or carrying a card that identifies your condition and the medications you are taking, including diphenhydramine.
• Regular follow-ups: Attend regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your response to diphenhydramine and address any concerns or side effects.

By following these guidelines and being informed about the proper use, storage, disposal, and potential emergencies associated with diphenhydramine, you can use this medication safely and effectively.