Side Effects of Long-Term Benadryl Use
Benadryl (or diphenhydramine) is a well-known antihistamine taken by people who suffer from common allergies. Benadryl helps eliminate and control allergy symptoms such as runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing, itchiness, hives, and other rashes. It also helps control symptoms of the common cold.
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Function
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Histamine (a naturally occurring chemical present within cells) is released by the body when an individual is exposed to a substance she is allergic to. Allergy symptoms are all a result of histamine irritating cell receptors, and Benadryl works by blocking the histamines from causing aggravating allergy symptoms. Benadryl may also be used as a sedative as well as to treat or prevent motion sickness.
Side Effects
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Common side effects of taking Benadryl include drowsiness, dizziness, headache, dry mouth and absent mindedness. Other possible side effects of taking Benadryl can include upset stomach, constipation, moodiness or irritation, and sleeplessness. It is important to take Benadryl with plenty of liquids because it may dry up mucous in the lungs and make it more difficult to breathe and painful to cough.
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Long-Term Effects
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While the effects of long-term Benadryl use have not been clinically studied, some long-term users have reported that the effects of Benadryl start to wane and that a higher dose is needed after prolonged use. Individuals who have used Benadryl for a prolonged period of time also report having trouble sleeping after stopping their regular dose.
Dr. Michael Roberts of the Allergy and Clinical Immunology Medical Group in Santa Monica, California, recommends that any individual who needs to use Benadryl daily see their doctor because if the symptoms last more than 10 days it might be a sign of a more serious condition.
Warning
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Benadryl may enhance the effects of anxiety or mood altering medications. Benadryl should not be used by people with glaucoma, asthma, heart or blood pressure problems, liver disease, seizures, stomach problems (such as ulcers), or an enlarged prostate gland as it might make these conditions worse. Benadryl should not be taken before driving as it causes drowsiness and slows emergency response time significantly.
Expert Insight
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Benadryl is a conveniently available over-the-counter medication for use by individuals suffering from allergies, insomnia or motion sickness. However, taking Benadryl is not a cure. If symptoms persist for more than 10 days or worsen while taking Benadryl, the individual should see a doctor immediately to rule out potentially serious conditions.
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