Diphenhydramine

BENADRYL ANTIHISTAMINE/ALLERGY RELIEF
DIPHENHYDRAMINE (Brand Name: Benadryl)
For infants under 6 months, please contact on-call physician prior to administering medication

Benadryl is an antihistamine, so it can be used for allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis or hives,
as well as nasal allergies and cold symptoms. It can be given every 6 hours. Benadryl comes in
children’s liquid suspension, children’s chewable tablets, and adult tablets or capsules.

DIPHENHYDRAMINE INFORMATION:

AGE LIMITS: For emergency use, please administer Benadryl in consultation with a physician. For routine use, avoid diphenhydramine under 6 years of age unless instructed by healthcare provider. Non-sedating alternatives (eg, loratadine, cetirizine, fexofenadine) are available over-the-counter and are safer for young children.
DOSAGE: Determine dosage by finding child’s weight in the first row of the dosage table
MEASURING the DOSAGE: Syringes and droppers are more accurate than teaspoons. If possible, use the syringe or dropper that comes with the medication. If you use a teaspoon, it should be a measuring spoon. Regular spoons are not reliable. Also, remember that 1 level teaspoon equals 5 mL and that ½ a teaspoon equals 2.5 mL.
FREQUENCY: Repeat every 6 hours as needed
ADULT DOSAGE: 50 mg
RISK of SIDE EFFECTS: May cause drowsiness and paradoxical excitatory behavior. Use caution when driving or operating heavy machinery after dosing due to potential for sedation and decreased alertness. This is especially relevant for teen drivers.

These tables indicate maximum recommended dosages. Please do not hesitate to call our office if you have any questions.