Benadryl as a Sleep Aid

Benadryl^® ( diphenhydramine hydrochloride) is an antihistamine medication available both over the counter and with a prescription. It comes in many different forms and is used for a variety of purposes. Although the medicine is most commonly used as a treatment for allergies, many people also use Benadryl as a sleep aid.

 

Only prescription Benadryl products and certain non-prescription diphenhydramine products are approved for the treatment of insomnia. Not only is Benadryl an antihistamine, but it also works as a sedative. Although this action has made the medication useful as a sleep aid, it also limits the usefulness of the medication for other uses (since drowsiness can be a bothersome side effect).