Diphenhydramine - Drug Information

Written by Dhanalakshmi Chinnuswamy, Diploma in Pharmacy, MBA (Healthcare)

Medically Checked by Dr. M. Janani Priya, Doctor of Pharmacy

Generic Name : Diphenhydramine
Pronunciation : dye fen hye' dra meen

ICD Code : Y55.5 | Therapeutic Classification : Antihistamines And Decongestants

Trade Name(s) :

India - Kuffdryl Syr, Calatop, Dricof, Bronyl, Sedoril (50 ml), Histadril, Sedoril (100 ml), Sedyn, Sneezy, Franklor, Kuffdryl Syr (50 ml), Mucoryl, Reno, Broncholyn, Epricof, Odaril, Broncure (100 ml), Oysikof, Sol -X, Sol -N, Cold - Soft, Franklor Plus (50 ml), Franklor Plus (100 ml), Dexcof, Broncholyn -D, Ephedrex, Est Coff, Asthica, Ephedrex (100 ml), Asthica (100 ml)

International - Aler-Dryl, Allergia-C, Allermax, Altaryl, Banophen, Benadryl, Bromanate, AF Bydramine, Compoz, Nighttime Sleep Aid, Dicopanol, Diphedryl, Diphen, Diphenadryl, Diphenhist, Diphenylin, Dytan, Hydramine, Nervine, Nytol, Pardryl, Q-Dryl, Siladryl, Sleepinal, Sominex, Twilite, Unisom.

Why is Diphenhydramine Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is an antihistamine, prescribed for severe allergic conditions such as runny nose, sneezing, itchy, watery eyes. It is also used for itching of insect bites, sunburns, bee stings, poison ivy, poison oak and minor skin irritation.

When should Diphenhydramine not to be taken? (Contraindications)

Contraindicated in newborns and patients with hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Diphenhydramine ?

PO- Adult- The recommended dose is 25 mg to 50 mg (1 to 2 capsules).
Child- The recommended dose is 12.5 mg to 25 mg (1 capsule).
Topical: Apply a thin layer over the affected area as directed by your physician.

How should Diphenhydramine be taken?

It comes as a tablet to take by mouth, with or without food.
It also comes as a cream, lotion and ointment to apply topically.

What are the warnings and precautions for Diphenhydramine ?

* Caution should be exercised in patients with history of asthma, lung disease, increased eye pressure, ulcer, difficulty in urinating, enlarged prostate, heart disease, high blood pressure, seizures, overactive thyroid, any allergy, who are taking other medications, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
* It may cause dizziness or drowsiness, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.
* Avoid alcohol consumption.
Topical
* Avoid contact with eyes and mouth.
* Avoid using in patients with chickenpox, measles.

What are the side effects of Diphenhydramine ?

Topical - Skin rash, sunburn, increased sensitivity to sunlamps and sunlight.
Miscellaneous - Drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, constipation, headache, muscle weakness and nervousness.

What are the other precautions for Diphenhydramine ?

* Avoid excess dosage.

What are the storage conditions for Diphenhydramine ?

Store it at room temperature.

Schedule G

Drugs that are to be used only under medical supervision.