What is Diphedryl?
Diphedryl, an antihistamine, is used for sneezing and cold symptoms such as runny noses, watery eyelids, hives, skin irritation, itching, etc. Diphedryl can also be used to treat motion sickness and induce sleep. It is also prescribed to treat some symptoms of Parkinson's disease. This sleep medicine is not recommended for children under 12 years of age. There are several brands and forms of diphenhydramine available.This leaflet does not list all available brands. Diphedryl can be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.
Side effects of Diphedryl
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention: difficulty breathing, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or throat.
Diphedryl can cause serious side effects. If you experience:
- Severe sleepiness
- Urination that is painful or difficult
In older adults, side effects like dryness of the mouth and constipation may be more common.
Some of the common side effects that diphedryl can cause include:
- Drowsiness;
- Dry eyes and blurred vision
- Dry mouth, nose, or throat
- Reduced urination
- Constipation;
- Feeling restless or excited, especially in children
- After nighttime use, you may feel drowsy or have a "hangover".
There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. Contacting the FDA directly in regards to reporting adverse side effects can be done via telephone at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Similar/related drugs
prednisone, hydroxyzine, ondansetron, fluticasone nasal, Lorazepam, montelukast, and cetirizine
Warnings
Follow the directions on Diphedryl. Too much diphedryl may cause serious heart problems or seizures.Coma or death could ensue from neglectful care of this nature.Diphedryl is not recommended for children under 12 years of age.
Before you take this drug
If you have an allergy to diphedryl, then it is best not to use this product.
Have any of the following occur in your life:
- Urination or prostate problems;
- Asthma, chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD), and other breathing disorders;
- Glaucoma;
- A thyroid disorder.
Consult your doctor before taking this medication if you're pregnant or nursing. Diphedryl can slow down breast milk production.
How to take Diphedryl?
Follow all directions provided on your label or from your physician.Diphedryl should only be used for a short time until symptoms subside. Too much diphedryl may cause serious heart problems or seizures. It can even lead to death. Follow the directions on the label when giving Diphedryl as directed to children. Do not use this medicine to put a child to sleep. Misuse of antihistamines can lead to death in very young children. Diphedryl can be taken 30 minutes prior to a motion-sickness situation (such as an airplane flight, a boat ride, or a ride at a theme park). Take this medicine at mealtimes and before bedtime until you are no longer in a situation that causes motion sickness.Take Diphedryl 30 minutes prior to bedtime as a sleep aid.The chewable tablet must be chewed before it can be swallowed.Measuring liquid medicine is important.Apply the provided dosing device or an alternative dose-measuring tool (not spoon).
Only take an oral disintegrating tablet when ready. Place the pill directly in your mouth without chewing; as it dissipates over time, be sure to swallow several times for optimal use.If your condition is not improving after taking Diphedryl or you develop a fever, a headache, or a skin rash, call your doctor.Use Diphedryl no longer than two weeks for sleep disorders or seven days to treat colds or allergy symptoms.Diphedryl may affect allergy skin tests. Inform any doctor that you see about your use of diphedryl.Store away from heat and moisture at room temperature.
What happens if I miss the dose?
Diphedryl can be taken as needed, and there is no need to follow a schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip any missed ones and just wait. Never take two doses in one go.
What happens if I overdose?
Call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222 or seek emergency medical care. A diphenhydramine overdose can be fatal. Overdose symptoms include agitation and hallucinations.
What should be avoided?
Do not drive or engage in hazardous activities until you have determined how diphedryl affects you. You may be unable to react properly. Diphenhydramine can be exacerbated by alcohol. Before using any other medication that contains diphedryl, consult your doctor or pharmacist. You should also avoid using any other medicine that contains diphedryl. Overdosing on this medication can lead to death.
Interaction with other drug
Before using diphedryl, consult your doctor or pharmacist. This is especially important if you are taking any medications that may cause drowsiness, such as an opioid, sleep medication, muscle relaxant, or medicine to treat anxiety or seizures. Inform your doctor of all the medicines you are currently taking and those that you have started or stopped using. Included are prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. This list does not include all possible interactions.
