(diphenhydramine hydrochloride)
Brand
Benadryl
Availability
- Tablets: 25 mg, 50 mg
- Capsules: 25 mg, 50 mg
- Pediatric Liquid: 12 mg/5mL
- Pediatric Elixer: 12 mg/5mL
- Injectable: 50 mg/mL
Pharmacology
Diphenhydramine HCL is an antihistamine that is an ethanolamine derivative, diphenhydramine competes with histamine at H1 receptor sites, and prevents but does not reverse histamine-mediated responses.
It provides local anesthesia, anticholinergic, and antitussive effects.
The drug is well absorbed orally and distributed in high levels to spleen, lungs, and brain. It is able to cross the placental barrier.
Diphenhydramine HCL is metabolized in the liver and excreted as metabolites in the urine.
Indications
Used in allergy symptoms such as allergic rhinosinusitis / allergic rhinoconjunctivitis , and as a sedative for agitation in pruritus.
Drug Interactions or Contraindications
- Use cautiously with central nervous system depressants as it can increase sedative effect.
Adverse Reactions
CNS: high sedative effect, poor coordination
CV: palpitations
GI: dry mouth, diarrhea, constipation
GU: urine retention
Dosage Recommendations
1 mg/kg to 2 mg/kg, PO or SQ, q12hr 26, 34, 41, 42, 44
or
2 mg/kg, PO or SQ, BID 12
or
5 mg/lb, PO or SQ, BID 20
or
10 mg/kg, BW, SQ 19
Considerations
- Can be purchased over the counter in tablet or topical form, or in combination with cough syrups.
- Give with food to avoid GI reactions.
- Store drug at room temperature.
