Can You Take Too Much Benadryl?
Benadryl® (
diphenhydramine) is a commonly used antihistamine, often used for treating
allergies or
insomnia. As with any medication, it is possible to take too much Benadryl. The specific effects of an overdose with Benadryl can vary, depending on a number of factors, including the
Benadryl dosage and whether it was taken with any other medications or substances.
Seek immediate medical attention if you or someone else may have overdosed on Benadryl.
Effects of an Overdose With Benadryl
A Benadryl overdose may cause the following symptoms:
- Drowsiness
- Dilated pupils
- Flushing
- Fever
- Slowing of the digestive tract
- Dry mouth, eyes, nose, and throat
- A rapid heart rate
- Nausea and vomiting
- Agitation
- Rapid breathing
- Low blood pressure
- An irregular heart rhythm
- Confusion
- Hallucinations
- Delirium
- Psychosis
- Seizures
- Coma
- Loss of life.
Treatment for a Benadryl Overdose
If the overdose was recent, a healthcare provider may give certain medicines or place a tube into the stomach to "pump the stomach.
" Treatment may also involve supportive care, which consists of treating the symptoms that occur as a result of the overdose. For example, supportive treatment options for a Benadryl overdose may include:
- Fluids through an intravenous line (IV)
- Medicines to increase blood pressure, control an irregular heart rhythm or control seizures
- Close monitoring of the heart and lungs
- A breathing tube to help with breathing
- Other treatments based on complications that occur.
It is important that you seek medical attention immediately if you believe that you may have overdosed on this medication.
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