Medical Experts Call for a “Final Goodbye” to This Common Allergy Medication

Medical experts are weighing in on the risks associated with a common allergy medication that is being misused to treat food allergies. Studies conclude that, despite being the first line of defense for many, this medication may potentially be more of a public health hazard. Here’s what you should know.

Diphenhydramine, Better Known as Benadryl

Diphenhydramine is a first-generation antihistamine commonly used to treat allergy symptoms. It works by blocking histamine receptors, reducing allergic symptoms like sneezing, itching, and swelling. Over time, it has also been used as a sleeping aid or motion sickness remedy, which some medical experts find problematic.

Common Uses Today

Many people rely on Benadryl for seasonal allergies, insect bites, and occasional sleep aid. It’s available without a prescription in several forms: tablets, liquids, multi-ingredient cold medicines, night-time products, and more. Because it’s so widely available and familiar, it remains one of the first medications people think to grab when allergy symptoms appear.

Misuse of Benadryl

However, experts are concerned that the general public sees this medication as the first line of defense against allergies. The drug is sometimes misused in excessive doses to induce drowsiness or hallucinations, or used chronically for insomnia. Social media trends like the “Benadryl Challenge” have drawn attention to dangerous overdoses involving the drug. In children, accidental ingestion or dosing errors have led to hospitalizations, agitation, and, in rare cases, death.

Why Experts Are Concerned

Recent papers argue that Benadryl has “reached the end of its life cycle” as a safe, widely available therapy. Its anticholinergic effects, sedation, and cognitive side effects are especially problematic in older adults and children. Experts argue that newer antihistamines have fewer effects and bring the same results. 

Adverse Effects & Overdose

Common side effects of Benadryl include drowsiness, dry mouth, blurred vision, dizziness, and urinary retention. In overdose (or in sensitive individuals) the drug can cause delirium, psychosis, seizures, and cardiac arrhythmias. Hospital reports show that children exposed to diphenhydramine commonly experience tachycardia, hallucinations, agitation, and, in some cases, seizures or death.

Vulnerable Populations

Older adults are especially vulnerable because the drug’s effects last longer in aging bodies, increasing risks of confusion, falls, and worsening cognitive decline. Studies link long-term use of anticholinergic medications like diphenhydramine to faster cognitive decline and dementia. 

The Better Line of Defense Against Allergies

Second-generation antihistamines (like loratadine, cetirizine, and fexofenadine) offer symptom relief with much less sedation and fewer central nervous system effects. These drugs are less likely to cross into the brain and typically cause fewer side effects while remaining effective for most allergy sufferers. Many doctors now recommend them as first-line choices.

Calls to Restrict Availability

Advocates argue that Benadryl should no longer be freely sold over the counter, but should instead be moved behind pharmacy counters. Some propose that its use should be limited to acute allergic reactions and not daily use for chronic symptoms. 

Conclusion

With simple alternatives that have much fewer side effects, many experts are urging people to turn away from Benadryl as the go-to fix for food allergies. They explain that brand familiarity does not mean it is the best medication on the market to treat these issues.