Benadryl Addiction

The active ingredient in Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is often used as a sleep aid. Because so many sleep aids (especially prescription ones) are somewhat "addicting," many people are concerned about the possibility of Benadryl addiction. However, Benadryl is not usually addicting, at least in the most common sense of the word.

 

People who regularly take Benadryl (especially for sleep) may find that they have become tolerant to the effects of the medication. However, this is simply a physical response to the medication; it does not mean you are addicted to Benadryl. If you have been taking Benadryl as a sleep aid regularly, you may also find that you have trouble sleeping when you stop the medication. This also does not mean you are addicted to Benadryl.

 

Sometimes, people become dependent on Benadryl in order to fall asleep. Often, this dependence is merely psychological. People believe they cannot sleep without the medication, and as a result, they experience insomnia if they do not take it. To overcome this problem, an individual may need to relearn good sleep habits (such as establishing a regular bedtime routine and avoiding caffeine late in the evening).