Diphenhydramine

Dosage Forms Available

• Diphenhydramine is available in various forms for oral administration such as tablets, capsules, and liquid-filled capsules, dissolving strips, powder, chewable tablets, dissolving tablets and liquid that can be taken by mouth.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This medicine is used in adults, as well as children aged 2 years and above.

Contraindications

• Diphenhydramine is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to it or any of its components.

• It should not be used in patients with breathing problems, glaucoma, heart problems, high blood pressure, liver disease, seizures, stomach/intestinal problems, overactive thyroid or difficulty urinating.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Diphenhydramine can interact with opioids (such as morphine and codeine), sleeping pills (such as zolpidem and eszopiclone), muscle relaxants (like baclofen and tizanidine) and other antihistamines (like cetirizine and fexofenadine).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• Overdosing on Diphenhydramine may cause severe drowsiness, seizures or widened pupils. In children, restlessness and hallucinations may occur. We advise seeking immediate medical attention if such symptoms occur.

• If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. However, do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless; they resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects let your doctor know.

• Drinking plenty of water may help to manage some side effects like dry mouth and constipation.

• If you experience drowsiness, you can try taking the medication before bedtime.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Diphenhydramine may cause drowsiness or dizziness. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medication impacts you.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Use of Diphenhydramine during pregnancy should be considered only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the foetus.

• As it may pass into breast milk, nursing mothers should consult a doctor before using this medicine.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Diphenhydramine should be used with caution in patients with liver or kidney disease as they may need dosage adjustments.

• Individuals with cardiovascular disease should also exercise caution while using this medicine due to the possibility of increased heart rate.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Maintaining a well-balanced diet can help manage symptoms of allergies, common cold, or hay fever that Diphenhydramine is used to relieve.

• Regular sleep routines may help manage insomnia.

• For patients who use this medicine to prevent motion sickness, it might be helpful to look straight ahead when travelling.