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Benadryl

Itching (itch) facts

  • The medical term for itching is pruritus.
  • Infections, bites and stings, infestations, chronic diseases, sun exposure, and dry skin are among the numerous causes of itching.
  • Anti-itch creams and lotions containing camphor, menthol, phenol, pramoxine (Caladryl, Tronolane), diphenhydramine (Benadryl), or benzocaine can bring relief.
  • Some cases of itching will respond to corticosteroid medications.
  • It is best to avoid scratching and itch when possible to avoid worsening of the condition and disruption of the skin that could lead to bacterial infection.
  • If itching persists with time or worsens, or is associated with skin lesions, consulting a health-care practitioner is advisable.

What is an itch?

Itch is an irritation in the skin that elicits an urge to scratch. Itches are a common problem and can be localized (limited to one area of the body) or gen...

Benadryl

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BENADRYL® Allergy
(diphenhydramine)

DRUG DESCRIPTION

Benadryl® Allergy contains the histamine-blocker diphenhydramine. This product relieves: runny nose; sneezing; itchy, watery eyes; itchy throat.

Ingredient

Active ingredient
(in each capsule)
Purpose
Diphenhydramine HCl 25 mg Antihistamine

Inactive ingredients

candelilla wax, colloidal silicone dioxide, crospovidone, hypromellose, microcrystalline cellulose, polyethylene glycol, providone, pregelatinized starch, starch, stearic acid, titanium dioxide, and talc

What are the possible side effects of diphenhydramine?

Stop taking diphenhydramine and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives).

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take diphenhydramine and talk to your doctor if you experience

  • sleepiness, fatigue, or dizziness;
  • headache;
  • dry mouth; or
  • difficulty urinating or an enlarged prostate.

This is not a complete list of side...

Read All Potential Side Effects and See Pictures of Benadryl »

What are the precautions when taking diphenhydramine (Benadryl)?

Before taking diphenhydramine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: breathing problems (e.g., asthma, emphysema), glaucoma, heart problems, high blood pressure, liver disease, mental/mood changes, seizures, stomach problems (e.g., ulcers, obstruction), an overactive thyroid gland, difficulty urinating (e.g., due to an enlarged prostate gland).

This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy or cause blurred vision. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness or...

Read All Potential Precautions of Benadryl »

* Effects seen on total nasal symptoms with Benadryl® Allergy (diphenhydramine) 50 mg 3 times daily. Use as directed.

What are the possible side effects of diphenhydramine?

Stop taking diphenhydramine and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives).

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take diphenhydramine and talk to your doctor if you experience

  • sleepiness, fatigue, or dizziness;
  • headache;
  • dry mouth; or
  • difficulty urinating or an enlarged prostate.

This is not a complete list of side...

Read All Potential Side Effects and See Pictures of Benadryl »

What are the precautions when taking diphenhydramine (Benadryl)?

Before taking diphenhydramine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: breathing problems (e.g., asthma, emphysema), glaucoma, heart problems, high blood pressure, liver disease, mental/mood changes, seizures, stomach problems (e.g., ulcers, obstruction), an overactive thyroid gland, difficulty urinating (e.g., due to an enlarged prostate gland).

This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy or cause blurred vision. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness or...

Read All Potential Precautions of Benadryl »

Last reviewed on RxList: 11/13/2007
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.

Benadryl - User Reviews

Benadryl User Reviews

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