Benadryl

Other Names: Diphenhydramine, Sominex Maximum Strength Caplet, Theraflu

Commonly Prescribed for: Benadryl is an antihistamine, should be taken by anyone suffering from sneezing, runny nose, itching, watery eyes, hives, rashes and other symptoms of allergies and common flu. Benadryl is also prescribed to suppress coughs, to treat motion sickness, to induce sleep and to treat mild forms of Parkinson disease.

How to Take It: Benadryl should be taken orally, exactly as described on the package or as directed by your doctor. Each dose should be taken with a full glass of water, with or without food. If it is to treat motion sickness, take a dose 30 minutes before motion, then with meals and at bedtime. If it is to help you sleep better, take it approximately 30 minutes before bedtime. Never take more than prescribed. The maximum dose in any 24-hour period is 300 mg. Make sure you tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have glaucoma, a stomach ulcer, urinary problems, hyperthyroidism, heart problems or asthma. Do not take Benadryl if you have previously taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) in the last 14 days. A consultation with your doctor is the best thing to do.

How It Works: Diphenhydramine property in Benadryl blocks the effects of the chemical histamine that occurs naturally in the body.

Some Side Effects: Benadryl may cause allergic reactions (breathing difficulty, closing of the throat, swelling of lips, tongue or face, hives), sleepiness, fatigue, dizziness, headache, dry mouth, or urinary problems. Use alcohol cautiously since it may increase drowsiness and dizziness while taking it. These side effects may more likely to be experienced by elders of more-than-60.