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Benadryl is an antihistamine medication with sedating effects that is used to treat allergies and insomnia. It can be a helpful medication for short-term treatment and should not be used long-term due to its potential for abuse, dependence, and addiction. Treatments are available for people who are addicted to Benadryl.
- Benadryl can lead to dependence, addiction, and misuse.
- Prolonged Benadryl use or misuse can lead to heart problems, psychosis, seizures, and addiction.
- Alternative medications and interventions are available for insomnia and allergies, including non-sedating antihistamines, supplements, topical creams, and therapies.
Can you get addicted to Benadryl?
It is possible to become addicted to Benadryl.
Benadryl is a brand name of medication containing diphenhydramine. It is an antihistamine used to treat allergies, colds, and insomnia. [1]
Benadryl causes sedating effects and impacts the levels and activity of the neurotransmitter dopamine. Dopamine is associated with the reward pathway in the brain and can reinforce drug use and drug-seeking behaviors. [2]
These effects can cause physical dependence to develop, leading to cravings. People can become dependent on Benadryl after taking the recommended dosage for several weeks or when taking more than the recommended amount. This can lead to increased use, misuse, and abuse, contributing to addictive behaviors.
Why people misuse Benadryl
People may misuse Benadryl if they have developed a physical dependence, as this can cause cravings. Regular use can also cause tolerance to develop, which means that the effects of the drug are reduced with prolonged use. This can cause individuals to require increased doses to achieve the same effects and may lead to doses beyond the recommended amount.
Additionally, people may misuse Benadryl by taking larger doses or administering the drug in alternative ways, to experience enhanced sedating or euphoric effects. [2]
Signs and symptoms of Benadryl dependence
Signs and symptoms of Benadryl dependence can include: [3]
- Reduced tolerance to the effects of Benadryl
- Changes in mood, such as anxiety, low mood, or agitation
- Withdrawal symptoms in between Benadryl doses
- Cravings for Benadryl
- Changes in heart rate and blood pressure
- Impaired personal, professional, or social functioning
Risks and side effects of Benadryl use
Common side effects of Benadryl include: [4]
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Changes in appetite
- Headache
- Weakness
- Agitation
- Constipation
- Nausea
If Benadryl is misused by taking larger or more frequent doses than recommended, risks and side effects may be more likely, such as: [2][4][5]
- Urinary retention
- Issues with vision
- Psychotic symptoms
- Delirium
- Seizures
- Severe changes in heart rate or blood pressure
- Increased risk of dementia
- Dependence, misuse, addiction, and withdrawal
Benadryl overdose
Overdose may occur if someone takes a larger dose of Benadryl than recommended. This can include symptoms such as: [4]
- Trouble breathing
- Rapid, slowed, or irregular heartbeat
- Loss of consciousness
- Seizure
- Hallucinations
If a Benadryl overdose is suspected, particularly if the individual has lost consciousness or has trouble breathing, call 911 immediately.
Who is at risk of Benadryl misuse?
Anyone using Benadryl could be at risk of misusing or becoming dependent on the medication. Some factors contribute to an increased risk of misuse, such as genetics, environmental influences, a history of substance abuse, or underlying physical and mental health conditions.
Safe use guidelines for Benadryl
People using Benadryl should take it exactly as it has been prescribed or as directed in the packaging instructions. [6]
- Adults and children over the age of 12 can take one or two tablets every four to six hours.
- Children aged six to 12 years can take one tablet every four to six hours.
- Children under the age of six should not take Benadryl unless instructed by a doctor.
- Benadryl should not be taken more than six times in 24 hours.
- People taking Benadryl for insomnia should take their dosage around 30 minutes before they plan to sleep.
When to seek medical advice
People who require long-term treatment for allergies or sleep issues should seek professional advice rather than taking Benadryl long-term.
Additionally, people who are taking Benadryl more frequently or in higher doses than recommended may require professional support in managing their use.
Alternatives to Benadryl for sleep and allergies
Alternative medications are available to assist with allergies and sleep issues, which may be safer and cause fewer risks and side effects. It may be advisable to consult with a medical professional to discuss alternatives that meet individual requirements. Additionally, people with sleep issues may benefit from non-medicinal interventions to help with their symptoms, such as therapy. [7]
Medications to help with sleep include: [7]
- Melatonin, a naturally produced hormone available as a supplement to help control circadian rhythms
- Prescribed sedatives such as zolpidem (should be used short term and can lead to dependence)
Medications to help with allergies include: [8]
- Non-sedating antihistamines, such as loratadine and cetirizine
- Topical creams
- Nasal sprays
Treatment options for Benadryl abuse
People who regularly misuse or have become dependent on Benadryl may require professional support to reduce and stop use. For some, this may be managed at home with little intervention, although others may need support with detoxification and withdrawal or medicinal treatments.
Recovered provides a directory to help find local rehab centers.
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