Why is this medication prescribed?

Diphenhydramine is used to relieve red, irritated, itchy, watery eyes; sneezing; and runny nose caused by hay fever, allergies, or the common cold. Diphenhydramine is also used to relieve cough caused by minor throat or airway irritation. Diphenhydramine is also used to prevent and treat motion sickness, and to treat insomnia (difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep). Diphenhydramine is also used to control abnormal movements in people who have early stage parkinsonian syndrome (a disorder of the nervous system that causes difficulties with movement, muscle control, and balance) or who are experiencing movement problems as a side effect of a medication.

How should this medicine be used?

Diphenhydramine is typically used orally in the form of tablets, capsules, or liquid. Here’s a general guide on how to use it:

• Read the Instructions: Always read the medication label and any accompanying patient information leaflet provided by your pharmacist or healthcare provider. This will give you specific instructions on how to use diphenhydramine, including dosage and any precautions or warnings.
• Dosage: Follow your doctor’s or pharmacist’s instructions regarding the appropriate dosage for your condition. Dosage may vary depending on factors such as age, weight, medical condition, and response to treatment.
• Oral Administration: If you’re using diphenhydramine in tablet or capsule form, swallow it whole with a full glass of water. If you’re using the liquid form, use a measuring device to ensure you get the correct dose. Shake the liquid well before measuring.
• Timing: Diphenhydramine is typically taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed for symptom relief. If you’re using it as a sleep aid, take it 30 minutes before bedtime.
• Avoid Alcohol and Driving: Diphenhydramine can cause drowsiness and impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid consuming alcohol while taking diphenhydramine, as it can increase drowsiness and other side effects.
• Do Not Exceed Recommended Dosage: Stick to the recommended dosage provided by your healthcare provider. Taking more than the recommended amount can increase the risk of side effects and complications.
• Duration of Use: Use diphenhydramine for the shortest duration necessary to relieve your symptoms. If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you develop new symptoms, consult your healthcare provider.
• Storage: Store diphenhydramine at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.

Always consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about the proper use of diphenhydramine or if you experience any adverse effects while taking it.

Other uses for this medicine

As for other uses, diphenhydramine can sometimes be used for its sedative effects to help with sleep or to manage occasional insomnia. However, it’s important to be cautious when using it for this purpose, especially if you have other medical conditions or are taking other medications, as it can cause drowsiness and impair your ability to perform tasks that require alertness.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions to consider when using diphenhydramine include:

• Sedation: Diphenhydramine can cause significant drowsiness and impair your ability to perform tasks that require mental alertness, such as driving or operating machinery. Avoid consuming alcohol or taking other medications that can enhance drowsiness while using diphenhydramine.
• Anticholinergic Effects: Diphenhydramine has anticholinergic properties, which means it can cause side effects like dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, urinary retention, and confusion, particularly in older adults.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any pre-existing medical conditions, especially asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), glaucoma, urinary retention, hyperthyroidism, or heart disease, as diphenhydramine may not be suitable or may require special monitoring in these cases.
• Interactions: Diphenhydramine may interact with other medications you’re taking, including prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal supplements. Make sure to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications and supplements you’re currently using.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your healthcare provider before using diphenhydramine if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, as its safety in these situations is not well established.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and read the medication label carefully before using diphenhydramine. If you have any concerns or experience adverse effects, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

As for special dietary instructions, diphenhydramine doesn’t typically require any specific dietary restrictions. However, it’s essential to follow a balanced diet and stay hydrated while using any medication to support your overall health and well-being.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of diphenhydramine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up. If you’re unsure about what to do, 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: One of the most common side effects of diphenhydramine is drowsiness, which can impair your ability to concentrate and perform tasks requiring mental alertness.
• Dry Mouth: Diphenhydramine can cause dryness of the mouth, throat, and nasal passages.
• Blurred Vision: Some people may experience blurred vision or difficulty focusing while taking diphenhydramine.
• Constipation: Diphenhydramine can slow down bowel movements, leading to constipation in some individuals.
• Urinary Retention: It may be difficult to empty the bladder completely, leading to urinary retention, particularly in older adults.
• Dizziness: Diphenhydramine can cause dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when standing up quickly from a sitting or lying position.
• Confusion: In some cases, particularly in older adults, diphenhydramine can cause confusion or disorientation.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Some individuals may experience nausea or vomiting as a side effect of diphenhydramine.
• Increased Heart Rate: Diphenhydramine can occasionally cause a rapid or irregular heartbeat, especially at higher doses.
• Allergic Reactions: While rare, some people may experience allergic reactions to diphenhydramine, which can manifest as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.

It’s essential to monitor for any side effects while taking diphenhydramine and to report them to your healthcare provider if they become bothersome or severe. Additionally, if you experience any serious side effects or signs of an allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately.

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

When it comes to storage and disposal of diphenhydramine, here’s what you should know:

• Storage: Store diphenhydramine at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep it in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Dispose of expired or unused diphenhydramine properly. Do not flush it down the toilet or pour it down the drain unless instructed to do so. Instead, take it to a drug take-back program or follow specific disposal instructions provided by your pharmacist or local waste disposal facility.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Medical Help: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, hallucinations, seizures, loss of consciousness, or severe drowsiness, seek immediate medical attention by calling emergency services or going to the nearest emergency room.
• 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.

What other information should I know?

• Avoid Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol while taking diphenhydramine, as it can increase drowsiness and other side effects.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Diphenhydramine can impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid engaging in activities requiring mental alertness until you know how diphenhydramine affects you.
• Medical History: Inform your healthcare provider about any pre-existing medical conditions you have, as well as any medications or supplements you’re currently taking, to avoid potential interactions or complications.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeedingv Consult your healthcare provider before using diphenhydramine if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, as its safety in these situations is not well established.
• Allergies: If you have known allergies to diphenhydramine or any other medications, inform your healthcare provider before using it.
• Dosage: Follow the recommended dosage provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist, and do not exceed it unless instructed to do so.

Always read the medication label and any accompanying patient information leaflet provided by your pharmacist for additional instructions and precautions specific to diphenhydramine. If you have any questions or concerns, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.