Benadryl

Benadryl® is a brand of over-the-counter medications commonly used for treatment of allergies. They contain a drug ingredient called “diphenhydramine.”

Benadryl® products may contain other drug ingredients in addition to diphenhydramine. The full list of active drug ingredients is provided on the label under “Drug Facts.”

How toxic is it?

Contact the Washington Poison Center for help.

Overdose or overuse of Benadryl® or other diphenhydramine-containing allergy medicine can cause severe and life-threatening toxicity. Hallucinations, seizures, loss of consciousness, and deadly heart rhythms may occur.

Common brands & formats

Common products:

  • Benadryl® Allergy
  • Benadryl® Extra Strength Itch Stopping Cream
  • Children’s Benadryl® Allergy Relief Liquid
  • Benadryl® Allergy Plus Congestion
  • Diphenhydramine is included in many cough & cold combination products

 

Common formats:

  • Tablets
  • Capsules
  • Liquid
  • Cream
  • Gel

What to do