Diphenhydramine (Benadryl, Various)

Category:

• Miscellaneous

Description:

• Antihistimine, antivertigo agent, antipruritic, hypnotic

Indications:

• Perenial and seasonal allergic rhinitis, vasomotor rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis

• Pruritic conditions, mild urticaria and angioedema, motion sickness

• Sleep aid, cough suppressant, adjuntive therapy for anaphylactic reactions

Contraindications:

• Narrow-angle glaucoma

• Bladder neck obstruction

Precautions:

• Pregnancy category C; contraindicated for nursing infants

• Avoid use of alcohol or other CNS depressants while taking drug

• Avoid driving or other hazardous activities if drowsiness occurs

Adverse Reactions (Side Effects):

• CNS: anxiety, confusion, dizziness, drowsiness, euphoria, fatigue, neuritis

• CV: palpitations, tachycardia

• EENT: blurred vision, dilated pupils, dry nose, dry throat, nasal stuffiness, tinnitis

• GU: dysuria, frequency, impotence, retention

• HEME: bone marrow suppression, hemolytic anemia

Dosage:

Administered orally (capsule, caplet, elixir), intramuscularly, intravenously

• Adult:            

  • PO/IM/IV 

    • 15-50mg every 4 hours

    • do not exceed 400mg daily

    • for sleep PO 50mg at bedtime

• Child:            

  • PO/IM/IV 5 mg/kg/day or 150mg per meter square per day divided every 6-8 hours

  • do not exceed 300mg daily