Why is this medication prescribed?

Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine medication that is commonly used for various medical purposes. Its primary uses include:

• Allergic Reactions: Diphenhydramine is often prescribed to relieve symptoms of allergic reactions, such as itching, hives, and swelling.
• Insomnia: Due to its sedative effects, diphenhydramine is sometimes used as a sleep aid for the short-term relief of insomnia.
• Motion Sickness: It can be used to prevent and treat motion sickness symptoms, including nausea and vomiting.
• Common Cold: Diphenhydramine may also be included in over-the-counter medications for the relief of cold and flu symptoms, such as sneezing and runny nose.
• Parkinson’s Disease: In some cases, it may be used to alleviate symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, such as tremors.
• Allergic Rhinitis: It can be used to treat symptoms of allergic rhinitis, such as sneezing and a runny nose.

How should this medicine be used?

Here are some general guidelines for using diphenhydramine:

• Dosage: Follow your healthcare provider’s or the product’s instructions regarding dosage. Dosage may vary depending on the specific formulation (e.g., oral tablets, liquid, or topical cream) and the condition being treated.
• Administration: If using liquid forms, measure the dose carefully using a proper measuring device. Do not use household teaspoons, as they may not provide an accurate measurement.
• Timing: If using diphenhydramine for allergies or motion sickness, it’s often recommended to take it before exposure to the allergen or motion-inducing activity.
• Sleep Aid: If using diphenhydramine as a sleep aid, take it about 30 minutes before bedtime. Avoid engaging in activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating heavy machinery, until you know how the medication affects you.
• Interactions: Be cautious about potential interactions with other medications. Consult your healthcare provider if you are taking other drugs, including prescription and over-the-counter medications.
• Avoid Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol while taking diphenhydramine, as it can enhance drowsiness.
• Duration of Use: Use diphenhydramine as directed by your healthcare provider. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult with your healthcare professional.

It’s crucial to use diphenhydramine responsibly and only as directed by a healthcare provider. If you have any questions or concerns about its use, dosage, or potential interactions, consult with your healthcare professional for personalized advice.

Other uses for this medicine

Some of the less common uses include:

• Parkinson’s Disease: Diphenhydramine may be used to help manage tremors associated with Parkinson’s disease.
• Nausea and Vomiting: It can be used to alleviate symptoms of nausea and vomiting.
• Vertigo: Diphenhydramine may be prescribed to help relieve symptoms of vertigo.
• Pruritus (Itching): It may be used topically or orally to relieve itching associated with various skin conditions.

What special precautions should I follow?

As with any medication, it is crucial to take special precautions when using diphenhydramine. Here are some general precautions:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider about any allergies you have, especially if you are allergic to diphenhydramine or similar medications.
• Medical Conditions: Disclose your complete medical history, especially if you have conditions such as glaucoma, enlarged prostate, urinary retention, asthma, hyperthyroidism, cardiovascular disease, or high blood pressure.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult with your healthcare provider before using diphenhydramine if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• Alcohol and Other Medications: Avoid consuming alcohol while taking diphenhydramine, and inform your healthcare provider about all prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Drowsiness: Diphenhydramine can cause drowsiness, so it’s important to avoid activities requiring alertness, such as driving, until you know how the medication affects you.
• Children and Elderly: Use caution when giving diphenhydramine to children or elderly individuals, as they may be more sensitive to its effects.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and ask any questions you may have about the medication. If you experience severe side effects or if symptoms persist, seek medical attention promptly.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are typically no specific dietary instructions associated with diphenhydramine. However, it’s advisable to take it with or without food based on personal preference and to reduce the risk of stomach upset. If you have specific dietary concerns or restrictions, consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of diphenhydramine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s 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. Not everyone will experience these side effects, and they can vary in severity. Common side effects include:

• Drowsiness: Diphenhydramine is known for its sedative effects, and drowsiness is a common side effect. It may impair your ability to concentrate or operate machinery.
• Dry Mouth and Throat: Diphenhydramine can lead to a dry mouth and throat, which may be accompanied by difficulty swallowing or increased thirst.
• Blurred Vision: Some people may experience blurred vision or difficulty focusing while taking diphenhydramine.
• Constipation or Upset Stomach: Gastrointestinal side effects such as constipation or upset stomach may occur in some individuals.
• Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Diphenhydramine can cause dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when standing up quickly.
• Increased Heart Rate: In some cases, diphenhydramine may cause an increase in heart rate.
• Urinary Retention: Difficulty urinating or urinary retention is a potential side effect, especially in individuals with prostate enlargement.
• Confusion or Delirium: Particularly in older adults, diphenhydramine may cause confusion or delirium.
• Allergic Reactions: While uncommon, some individuals may experience an allergic reaction to diphenhydramine, which can manifest as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience these symptoms.
• Interaction with Other Medications: Diphenhydramine can interact with other medications, potentially increasing the risk of side effects or reducing the effectiveness of other drugs.

It’s important to note that the above list is not exhaustive, and individual reactions may vary. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, contact your healthcare provider. Additionally, inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking to check for potential interactions.

As with any medication, the benefits and risks should be discussed with your healthcare provider, and it’s crucial to use diphenhydramine as directed. If you have specific concerns about side effects or if you are considering using diphenhydramine for a particular condition, consult with your healthcare professional for personalized advice.

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

Storage and Disposal of Diphenhydramine:

Storage:

• Temperature: Store diphenhydramine at room temperature, away from excessive heat or moisture.
• Childproof Container: Keep the medication in a child-resistant container to prevent accidental ingestion by children.
• Light: Protect the medication from light by storing it in its original packaging or a dark container.
• Dry Place: Store diphenhydramine in a dry place to prevent degradation of the medication.

Disposal:

• Expiration Date: Check the expiration date on the packaging, and do not use the medication if it is expired.
• Unused Medication: If you have unused diphenhydramine, consult with a pharmacist or follow local guidelines on proper disposal. Do not flush medications down the toilet unless instructed to do so.
• Community Disposal Programs: Many communities have specific programs or events for the safe disposal of medications. Check with your local pharmacy or health department for information.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Medical Attention: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe side effects, seek immediate medical attention or contact your local poison control center.
• Symptoms of Overdose: Symptoms of diphenhydramine overdose may include confusion, hallucinations, seizures, extreme drowsiness, and difficulty breathing.
• Poison Control: In the United States, you can contact the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance in case of an overdose.

What other information should I know?

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider about any allergies you may have before taking diphenhydramine.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have any medical conditions, especially if you have a history of glaucoma, difficulty urinating, or other health concerns.
• Other Medications: Discuss with your healthcare provider any other medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, as they may interact with diphenhydramine.
• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol while taking diphenhydramine, as it can enhance drowsiness.

Always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or those on the medication packaging. If you have specific concerns or questions about diphenhydramine, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.