Benadryl Elixir

The active ingredient in Benadryl Elixir is diphenhydramine hydrochloride (also known as diphenhydramine HCL). It is pronounced as dye-fen-hye-dra-meen. Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine that works by blocking the effects of histamine, which is the substance that causes allergy symptoms like skin itchiness, sneezing, hives, and watery eyes.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Benadryl Elixir. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Benadryl Elixir:

• For children 6 to 12 years old, take 1-2 teaspoons (5-10 mL) every 4-6 hours. Do not take more than 8 teaspoons (40 mL) in 24 hours.
• For adults and children 12 years old and over, take 2-4 teaspoons every 4-6 hours. Do not take more than 16 teaspoons (80 mL) in 24 hours.
• For children younger than 6 years old, use Children’s Benadryl Liquid instead.
• If you are taking it for motion sickness, take Benadryl Elixir 30 minutes before traveling for prevention.
• Do not drive or operate machinery while taking this medication, as it may cause drowsiness.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of your next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose as scheduled.

The most common side effects of Benadryl Elixir include:

• Drowsiness. In young children, it may cause excitement instead.
• Sleepiness.
• Upset stomach.
• Constipation.
• Dry mouth, nose, and throat.
• Blurred vision.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Benadryl Elixir. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Mood changes.
• Confusion.
• Restlessness.
• Difficulty urinating.
• Rapid/irregular heartbeat.
• Seizures.
• If overdose occurs, get medical attention or call your local poison control center.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Benadryl Elixir. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Benadryl Elixir, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Allergic to any medications, supplements, preservatives, or food.
• Glaucoma (high blood pressure in the eye)
• Breathing problems, like asthma or emphysema.

• If you are taking any other medication that also contains diphenhydramine.
• Allergic to diphenhydramine or any medications containing diphenhydramine.
• If you are younger than 6 years old.

You will start to feel better within 30 minutes to 1 hour of taking Benadryl Elixir.

When Benadryl Elixir is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Oral or topical antihistamines.
• Medications containing diphenhydramine.
• Alcohol.
• Sedatives.
• Tranquilizers.
• Seizure medications.
• Anticholinergic drugs.

Benadryl Elixir is available as 12.5 mg per 5 mL. It comes in a 100 mL bottle.

Store Benadryl Elixir at room temperature, out of reach of children and pets. Benadryl Elixir also has child-resistant packaging.

Kenvue manufactures Benadryl Elixir.

There are generic versions of Benadryl Elixir available. The generic name is diphenhydramine.

Benadryl Elixir may also be known as Benadryl Liquid Elixir or Benadryl Allergy Elixir.

Based on how long you have been taking Benadryl and the dosage, your healthcare provider may recommend reducing the dose before completely stopping. Withdrawal symptoms typically begin 48 hours after stopping Benadryl, peak between 3–5 days, and subside after about 7 days. They can include nausea, vomiting, headache, sweating, feelings of anxiety, and insomnia. If you are deprescribing due to experiencing adverse effects, you may need to reduce your dose faster or stop using it immediately.

Benadryl Elixir is likely safe to be used during pregnancy. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Benadryl Elixir is possibly safe to be used while breastfeeding. Evidence has shown that Benadryl can be passed to the baby through the breastmilk and cause colic-like symptoms and drowsiness. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.