Why is this medication prescribed?

Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine that is commonly used to relieve symptoms associated with allergies, hay fever, and the common cold. It is also used to treat symptoms of itching, rash, and hives. Additionally, diphenhydramine can be used as a sleep aid due to its sedative effects. It is often found in over-the-counter medications for allergy relief, as well as in some combination products for cold and flu symptoms.

How should this medicine be used?

Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine that is commonly used to relieve symptoms of allergy, hay fever, and the common cold. It is also used to treat insomnia and motion sickness. However, it’s important to use diphenhydramine as directed by a healthcare professional, as improper use can lead to side effects.

Here are general guidelines for the use of diphenhydramine:

• Dosage: Follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider or on the product packaging. Dosages can vary depending on the formulation (e.g., liquid, tablet, or capsule) and the specific condition being treated.
• Allergies and Cold Symptoms: If you’re using diphenhydramine to relieve allergy or cold symptoms, take it as directed. It may cause drowsiness, so avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving, until you know how the medication affects you.
• Insomnia: If you’re using diphenhydramine to treat insomnia, take it about 30 minutes before bedtime. It’s important not to exceed the recommended dosage, and prolonged use for sleep should be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
• Motion Sickness: If using diphenhydramine for motion sickness, take it before travel as directed. Again, be cautious about activities requiring alertness.
• Do Not Exceed Recommended Dosage: Taking more than the recommended dosage can lead to serious side effects, including overdose. If you suspect an overdose or experience severe side effects, seek medical attention immediately.
• Avoid Alcohol: Alcohol can enhance the sedative effects of diphenhydramine, so it’s advisable to avoid alcohol while taking this medication.
• Precautions: Inform your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions. Diphenhydramine may interact with certain medications or medical conditions.
• Special Populations: Use caution in elderly individuals, as they may be more sensitive to the sedative effects. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult with their healthcare provider before using diphenhydramine.

Always consult with a healthcare professional before using diphenhydramine, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking other medications. If you have any concerns or experience unusual side effects, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

Other uses for this medicine

In addition to its common uses for allergy relief, sleep aid, and motion sickness, diphenhydramine may be used for other purposes as recommended by a healthcare professional. Some of the potential alternative uses include the treatment of mild reactions to blood transfusions, prevention and treatment of nausea and vomiting associated with certain medications, and relief of symptoms related to Parkinson’s disease.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions should be taken when using diphenhydramine, and it’s important to follow the advice of healthcare professionals. Here are some general precautions:

• Medical History: Inform your healthcare provider about your complete medical history, including any pre-existing conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), glaucoma, high blood pressure, liver disease, or urinary retention.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult with your healthcare provider before using diphenhydramine. While it is generally considered safe during pregnancy, it’s important to use it under medical supervision.
• Children and Elderly: Use caution when giving diphenhydramine to children, especially those under 2 years old, and elderly individuals. Dosages may need to be adjusted based on age, and the elderly may be more sensitive to the sedative effects.
• Interactions with Other Medications: Diphenhydramine may interact with other medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs. Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Sedation and Activities: Diphenhydramine can cause drowsiness, impairing your ability to concentrate and react quickly. Avoid activities that require mental alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you know how diphenhydramine affects you.
• Alcohol and CNS Depressants: Avoid or limit the consumption of alcohol while using diphenhydramine. It can enhance the sedative effects, and combining it with other central nervous system (CNS) depressants may increase the risk of drowsiness.
• Allergic Reactions: If you have a known allergy to diphenhydramine or other antihistamines, avoid its use. Seek medical attention if you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.

Always follow the specific instructions and advice provided by your healthcare provider or on the product label. If you have any concerns or experience unexpected side effects, contact your healthcare professional promptly.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are typically no specific dietary instructions for diphenhydramine. However, it’s important to be aware that certain foods or beverages may interact with medications. For example, grapefruit and its juice can interact with some medications, but there is no specific interaction reported with diphenhydramine. Always follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider or on the product label. If you have concerns about potential interactions with food or dietary restrictions, consult with your healthcare professional.

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. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Diphenhydramine, like any medication, can cause side effects. Common side effects include:

• Drowsiness: Diphenhydramine is known for its sedative effects, and drowsiness is a common side effect. This is why it is often used as a sleep aid.
• Dry Mouth: A reduction in saliva production can lead to dry mouth.
• Dizziness: Some people may experience dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when standing up quickly.
• Blurred Vision: Diphenhydramine can cause temporary blurred vision.
• Constipation or Upset Stomach: Gastrointestinal side effects such as constipation or upset stomach may occur.
• Difficulty Urinating: In some cases, diphenhydramine can cause difficulty in passing urine, especially in individuals with prostate enlargement.
• Increased Heart Rate: Some people may experience an increased heart rate.
• Confusion (especially in elderly individuals): Elderly individuals may be more susceptible to confusion and cognitive effects.
• Allergic Reactions: While rare, allergic reactions can occur. Seek medical attention if you experience symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
• Interaction with Other Medications: Diphenhydramine can interact with other medications, potentially increasing the risk of side effects. Always check with your healthcare provider if you are taking other drugs.

It’s important to note that individual responses to medications vary, and not everyone will experience these side effects. If you are concerned about potential side effects or if you experience severe or persistent symptoms, contact your healthcare provider.

In some cases, diphenhydramine may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions, and it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before using it, especially for prolonged periods or in higher doses.

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

Storage and Disposal of Diphenhydramine:

• Storage: Keep diphenhydramine in its original packaging and store it at room temperature, away from excessive heat and moisture. Do not freeze the liquid form. Follow the storage instructions provided on the product label.
• Keep Out of Reach of Children: Store medications out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired medications properly. Check with your local pharmacy or healthcare provider for guidance on proper disposal methods, as this can vary by location.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of an overdose or emergency, contact your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 or seek emergency medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include extreme drowsiness, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, or a fast/irregular heartbeat.

What other information should I know?

• Medical Alert: Inform all healthcare providers about your use of diphenhydramine, including over-the-counter and prescription medications, to avoid potential interactions.
• Avoid Alcohol: Limit or avoid alcohol consumption while using diphenhydramine, as it can enhance the sedative effects and increase the risk of drowsiness.
• Avoid Driving and Machinery: Due to its sedative effects, avoid activities that require mental alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you know how diphenhydramine affects you.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult with your healthcare provider before using diphenhydramine if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• Allergic Reactions: If you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction (e.g., rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, difficulty breathing), seek medical attention promptly.
• Follow Dosage Instructions: Adhere to the recommended dosage and dosing schedule provided by your healthcare provider or on the product label. Do not exceed the recommended dose unless directed by a healthcare professional.
• Inform Healthcare Provider: If you are scheduled for surgery or any medical procedure, inform your healthcare provider about your use of diphenhydramine.

Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice based on your specific health condition and needs. The information provided here is general and may not cover all individual circumstances or potential interactions.