Is diphenhydramine benadryl
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Is Diphenhydramine Benadryl?
Introduction to Diphenhydramine and Benadryl
Diphenhydramine hydrochloride is a widely used antihistamine known for its effectiveness in treating allergic reactions and as a mild sedative. It is commonly marketed under the brand name Benadryl. This article explores the relationship between diphenhydramine and Benadryl, highlighting their uses, effects, and potential side effects.
Diphenhydramine as an Antihistamine
Antihistamine Properties
Diphenhydramine hydrochloride, marketed as Benadryl, is recognized for its potent antihistamine properties. It effectively counteracts histamine, a compound involved in allergic reactions, by blocking its receptors. This action helps alleviate symptoms such as itching, swelling, and rashes 1610.
Rapid Absorption and Action
Benadryl is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream, with clinical effects observable within an hour of administration. This quick onset of action makes it a reliable choice for managing acute allergic reactions 4.
Therapeutic Uses of Benadryl
Allergy Relief
Benadryl is extensively used to treat various allergic conditions, including hay fever, urticaria (hives), and other allergic skin reactions. Its ability to suppress the wheal and flare reaction on the skin makes it particularly effective for these conditions 610.
Sedative Effects
In addition to its antihistamine properties, diphenhydramine also has mild sedative effects, making it useful for treating insomnia and providing relief from motion sickness 38.
Side Effects and Toxicity
Common Side Effects
While Benadryl is effective, it is not without side effects. Common adverse reactions include drowsiness, dry mouth, urinary retention, dizziness, and constipation. These side effects are experienced by a significant percentage of users 37.
Severe Reactions and Toxicity
In some cases, especially with overdose or in sensitive individuals, diphenhydramine can cause severe reactions such as hallucinations, convulsions, and even cardiorespiratory collapse. Children are particularly susceptible to these severe side effects 357.
Unusual Reactions
There have been reports of unusual reactions such as acute dystonia, a movement disorder, following diphenhydramine administration. This highlights the need for caution and monitoring when using this medication, especially in children 7.
Conclusion
Diphenhydramine hydrochloride, commonly known as Benadryl, is a highly effective antihistamine used to treat a variety of allergic reactions and as a mild sedative. While it offers rapid relief from allergy symptoms, it is important to be aware of its potential side effects and the risk of severe reactions, particularly in children. Proper usage and dosage are crucial to maximizing its benefits while minimizing risks.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
Delayed hypersensitivity reaction to the non‐ionic contrast medium iopromid
Diphenhydramine may cause contact sensitization, photodermatitis, and eczematous eruptions when taken orally, and is one of the most frequent causes of adverse reactions in hospital patients.
Diphenhydramine hydrochloride intoxication.
Diphenhydramine hydrochloride is a widely prescribed antihistamine and mild sedative, but its toxicity is often underestimated, leading to near-fatal poisoning in children and adults.
Case ReportBiochemical studies on diphenhydramine (benadryl) distribution in tissues and urinary excretion.
Benadryl rapidly enters the body and rapidly affects symptoms, with a small amount remaining unaltered in urine.
Diphenhydramine (benadryl) and tripelennamine (pyribenzamine) intoxication in children.
Diphenhydramine and tripelennamine are rapidly absorbed and rapidly leave the blood stream, with their toxic effects mainly affecting the central nervous system.
DIPHENHYDRAMINE HYDROCHLORIDE (BENADRYL HYDROCHLORIDE): Report on Its Use in One Hundred and Thirty-Seven Patients
Diphenhydramine hydrochloride effectively suppresses histamine sensitivity in the skin and prevents dermographism in allergic individuals, with no significant adverse effects observed in clinical trials.
Non-RCTAcute Dystonia: An Unusual Reaction to Diphenhydramine
Acute extrapyramidal movement disorder developed in the child, resembling the disorder induced by phenothiazines in young patients.
Case ReportTHE INFLUENCE OF DIPHENHYDRAMINE·HC1 (BENADRYL) ON APOMORPHINE-INDUCED EMESIS IN DOGS
Diphenhydramine-HCl effectively suppresses apomorphine-induced vomiting in dogs, suggesting its potential use in treating pregnancy vomiting, sea and air sickness, and other conditions causing vomiting.
Anticholinergic potency of diphenhydramine (Benadryl) measured against bethanechol in the gastric fistula dog.
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) has a 10,000-fold less anticholinergic potency than atropine and 1,000-fold less than its antagonism of histamine H-1 effects.
Non-RCT
Animal StudyEFFECTS OF TOPICAL APPLICATIONS OF DIPHENHYDRAMINE HYDROCHLORIDE (BENADRYL)
Topical diphenhydramine hydrochloride ointments effectively reduce histamine flare and wheal reaction in individuals without known allergic diseases or other autonomic nervous system disturbances.
Non-RCT