Benadryl side effects anxiety

Can Benadryl Cause Anxiety? Side Effects and Precautions

Benadryl is a type of antihistamine that’s available over-the-counter (OTC). It’s most commonly used to relieve allergy symptoms, such as:

runny nose
sneezing
itching

The active ingredient in Benadryl is called diphenhydramine. Like any medication, Benadryl has several side effects. Some of the most common are:

feeling sleepy or drowsy
dry mouth or throat
dizziness

It’s also possible that after taking Benadryl some people can feel:

restless
excitable
anxious

Continue reading to find out why this happens and what to do if it does.

One of the most common side effects of Benadryl is drowsiness. Because of this, some people use Benadryl as a sleep aid.

However, it’s also possible that Benadryl can do the opposite. When a medication has an effect that’s the opposite of what’s expected, it’s called a paradoxical effect.

In some people, taking Benadryl can actually have a stimulant effect, which is called paradoxical excitation. People that experience this after taking Benadryl may report feeling:

excitable
nervous
anxious
restless
agitated
wide awake
hyper

Why does this happen?

It’s generally unknown why paradoxical excitation happens in some people and not others.

One theory from a 2008 case report has to do with a type of genetic variation. Three people reporting paradoxical excitability as a response to diphenhydramine had extra copies of a specific gene.

This gene encodes instructions to make an enzyme called CYP2D6. CYP2D6 is important for breaking down (metabolizing) certain types of medications, such as Benadryl. Having extra CYP2D6 can make Benadryl metabolism much faster.

The researchers above hypothesized that it’s possible that in these people, Benadryl could be quickly broken down into substances that lead to excitability, rather than sedation. However, more research is needed to confirm this.

How common is it?

There aren’t currently any estimates of how common paradoxical excitation is in people that take Benadryl.

If the theory about fast metabolism is correct, a significant number of people in the United States could be impacted. The 2008 case report discussed above estimated that 1% to 2% of people in the United States have the genetic variation.

Additionally, it appears like paradoxical excitation is more common in children. You’ll actually see this effect listed on the labels of Benadryl products.

Taking Benadryl can slow, or depress, the functions of your central nervous system (CNS).

This is what can lead to some common side effects of Benadryl, such as drowsiness or dizziness. It’s also why some people may use Benadryl to help them to sleep or to feel less anxious.

Now that we’ve discussed how Benadryl may be connected to feelings of excitability or anxiousness, you may be wondering if Benadryl has any other similar side effects. Let’s look into this now.

Benadryl dependence

It’s possible for a person to become dependent on Benadryl. This can happen if it’s used frequently over a period of time, such as if you use Benadryl every day for 2 weeks or longer, according to the National Health Service.

When someone becomes dependent on a substance, they may also experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop using it. These can include:

tremors
insomnia
anxiety

It’s important to always take Benadryl as directed by the product label or by your doctor.

Because continuous use of Benadryl can lead to dependence, call a doctor if you find that you’re taking Benadryl frequently for conditions like allergies or sleep. They can recommend alternative medications that you can try instead.

Benadryl and dementia

It’s possible that long-term use of Benadryl could increase the risk of developing dementia, according to a 2015 study describing a group of 3,434 people.

The study found that a higher cumulative use of anticholinergic drugs was associated with an increased risk of dementia in this group. Examples of some types of anticholinergic drugs include:

first-generation antihistamines, like Benadryl
tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)
certain medications used to treat an overactive bladder
medications used to treat Parkinson’s disease symptoms

If you’re concerned about Benadryl and dementia, be sure to only take Benadryl for a short amount of time. You may also consider asking a doctor about alternative medications that may help treat your symptoms.

Benadryl can be found in several forms, including:

tablets
capsules
liquids

You can find Benadryl products available OTC at grocery stores and pharmacies.

Benadryl tablets or capsules

According to the National Institutes of Health, Benadryl tablets or capsules contain 25 milligrams of diphenhydramine, the active ingredient. The recommended dosage of Benadryl is:

Ages 12 and up: a total of 1 to 2 tablets every 4 to 6 hours
Ages 6 to 12: a tablet every 4 to 6 hours

Under age 6: do not take

Liquid Benadryl

There are also liquid formulations of Benadryl that can be used for children. When measuring liquid Benadryl, it’s important to use the little cup that comes with the medication. Don’t measure doses using a kitchen spoon.

According to the National Institutes of Health, for this type of Benadryl, the recommended dosage is:

Ages 6 to 12: a total of 1 to 2 teaspoons (5 to 10 milliliters) every 4 to 6 hours
Ages 4 to 6: only use under the direction of your child’s pediatrician
Under age 4: do not take

Tips for taking Benadryl safely

It’s also important to follow the guidelines below to ensure that you take Benadryl safely and lower your risk of side effects:

Don’t take too much in a day. Avoid taking more than 6 doses of Benadryl in one 24-hour period.
Use only as needed. Because Benadryl can cause long-term side effects, be sure to only take it for a short amount of time.
Avoid other sedatives. Because Benadryl often has a sedating effect, avoid taking it with other sedative medications, sleep aids, or alcohol.
Be careful with activities. Since Benadryl can make you drowsy, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery after taking it.
Speak with your doctor if you:
- take sedative medications or a type of antidepressant called a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI)
- have lung conditions (asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema)
- have glaucoma, stomach ulcers, seizures, or trouble urinating due to an enlarged prostate
- are pregnant or breastfeeding
- had a previous allergic reaction to Benadryl

Generally speaking, you don’t need to call a doctor if you’ve taken Benadryl and are experiencing feelings of:

anxiety
nervousness
agitation

Feelings of paradoxical excitement typically only last for the length of time that Benadryl is in your system. This can be about 4 to 6 hours.

Instead, you can try:

taking deep breaths or counting to 10 slowly may help you to feel calmer
avoiding other stimulants like caffeine or nicotine
getting exercise, which help to lift your mood
trying a relaxing activity like yoga or meditation

Speak with a doctor if you would like recommendations for alternative medications that are less likely to have these side effects.

Medical emergency
Taking too much Benadryl can lead to an overdose. If you or someone else has taken Benadryl and has any of the symptoms below, go to the emergency room or call 911.
blurry vision
rapid or irregular heart rate
nausea or vomiting
dilated pupils
trouble emptying your bladder (urinary retention)
confusion or disorientation
hallucinations
low blood pressure (hypotension)
seizures
coma

Takeaway

One of the most common side effects of Benadryl is drowsiness. However, some people may find that taking Benadryl causes them to feel:

anxious
excitable
nervous

It’s unknown what exactly causes the above side effects to happen. If you take Benadryl and experience anxiety or agitation, you can do a few things to help ease these feelings until the medication wears off. Some examples include taking deep breaths or doing a relaxing activity.

Is Benadryl Effective for Anxiety?

Occasional anxiety is a normal reaction we all experience to certain stressful situations that happen in our lives. For most people, it’s a momentary feeling. This might happen from a new or unfamiliar event, like public speaking. Temporary anxiety happens to everyone and doesn’t interfere with daily life.

However, anxiety disorders (AD) are more serious and can stop a person from enjoying their life. Scientists believe there may be genetic and environmental causes along with other individual factors involved.

Anxiety disorders are complex and can involve other mood or emotional disorders. It’s important to speak with a mental health professional if your anxiety is not occasional but more severe and is disrupting your life.

Benadryl is one product containing diphenhydramine. It’s an over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamine that’s used for allergies. The active ingredient in Benadryl is diphenhydramine, which may cause drowsiness, and some people find it helps them sleep.

General anxiety may cause restlessness, nervousness, and difficulty falling asleep. Some people with these symptoms may use diphenhydramine for its sedating effects. But diphenhydramine is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use as an anxiety medication. There are better options available.

Let’s take a closer look at diphenhydramine’s uses, side effects, and effectiveness.

Diphenhydramine is an older antihistamine that’s used to treat allergy symptoms. During an allergic reaction, your body releases histamine, a substance that certain cells in the body produce in response to allergens. Diphenhydramine works to limit the effects of histamine.

It helps with symptoms of allergic reactions like itching, runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes, and cough from various conditions like seasonal allergies, common cold, hives, and other allergic-type reactions.

Diphenhydramine is also used in other OTC products to treat motion sickness and temporary sleeplessness.

The medication has been around for many years and is considered a first-generation (older) antihistamine. It is not selective in blocking histamine receptors in the body. This means diphenhydramine causes certain side effects such as drowsiness, or sleepiness. Newer antihistamines may have fewer of these side effects.

Risks of taking diphenhydramine

If you have certain health conditions, diphenhydramine may not be right for you. Talk with your doctor before taking diphenhydramine if you have:

enlarged prostate
glaucoma
heart disease
high blood pressure
chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which can be caused by chronic bronchitis or emphysema
asthma
seizures
thyroid problems
liver problems

If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, talk with your doctor about the safety of using diphenhydramine. They can tell you more about the risks.

One 2015 study found long-term, frequent use of diphenhydramine in people over 65 years old increased the risk of dementia.

Diphenhydramine is not recommended for use in people 65 years and older because it can:

increase liver and kidney problems
cause adverse reactions such as dizziness and falls
worsen certain health conditions

Diphenhydramine is widely used as a temporary sleep aid for its sedating effects. For some people who experience occasional sleeplessness from anxiety, diphenhydramine may offer short-term relief. But studies show it has limited benefits as a sleep aid.

A 2017 study comparing benzodiazepine (alprazolam), the anticonvulsant pregabalin, and diphenhydramine for anxiety symptoms found diphenhydramine was not effective for calmness compared to the other medications.

The dosage of diphenhydramine can depend on various factors like:

reason for use
dosage form (oral, topical)
your age
your health condition
other medications you take

It’s important to use the smallest dose of diphenhydramine for the shortest amount of time that will provide symptom relief while minimizing side effects. Diphenhydramine is not for continued regular use.

Always talk with your pharmacist or doctor about all your medications to learn if diphenhydramine is appropriate and safe for you.

Typical dosages for allergic conditions (seasonal allergies) for oral diphenhydramine you swallow:

For adults and children ages 12 years and older, the dosage is 25 to 50 milligrams (mg) every 4 to 6 hours as needed.
For children ages 6 to 11 years old, the dosage is 12.5 to 25 mg every 4 to 6 hours as needed.
For children under 6 years old, you should always speak with your child’s doctor.

Typical dosages for diphenhydramine topical (cream, gel, spray):

For adults and children 2 years and older, it can be applied to the affected area 3 to 4 times for relief of itching, rash, and other skin conditions.
For children under 2 years old, you should always talk with your child’s doctor.

Do not use more diphenhydramine than your doctor recommends. Using too much diphenhydramine can cause serious side effects.

Always talk with your doctor or pharmacist before using Benadryl.

Diphenhydramine has some common side effects like:

drowsiness
dizziness
dry mouth
headache

Serious side effects include:

confusion
hyperactivity, irritability (especially in children)
restlessness, agitation
muscle spasms
trouble thinking
nausea
nervousness
memory problems
increased heart rate
trouble urinating
seizures
restless leg syndrome (can worsen in some people with this condition)

Diphenhydramine is only approved for short-term use. Using the medication for a long period of time may cause other side effects including:

constipation
anxiety
blurred vision
memory problems

It’s important to talk with your doctor to get an accurate diagnosis before self-medicating with diphenhydramine.

Yes, you can overdose on diphenhydramine. Taking too much can be life threatening.

Always talk with your doctor and pharmacist before taking OTC products.

Overdose symptoms may include:

blurred vision
confusion
decreased sweating
hallucinations
heart problems (arrhythmia)
involuntary movements
fever
dry eyes, mouth
nervousness and anxiety
restlessness
seizure
coma
trouble breathing
death

Call the Poison Control Centers at 800-222-1222 if you think you’ve taken too much Benadryl or other products containing diphenhydramine.
If you’re experiencing severe symptoms, call 911 or go to an emergency medical center right away.

Ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of diphenhydramine with other medications you take including prescription, and OTC products (vitamins, herbs, supplements, medications).

Diphenhydramine can interact with other medications that cause drowsiness, dizziness, or sleepiness. Ask your doctor for more information.

Alcohol. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness and cause other serious side effects.
Benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Librium, Valium, Ativan) may cause serious side effects like dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, and difficulty concentrating. Older adults may experience impaired thinking, judgment, and motor coordination.
Antidepressants. Antidepressants(paroxetine, Zoloft, Prozac, and others) may cause serious side effects like dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, and difficulty concentrating. Older adults may experience impaired thinking, judgment, and motor coordination.
Antipsychotics. Antipsychotics (chlorpromazine, haloperidol, fluphenazine, risperidone, olanzapine, aripiprazole, paliperidone, and others) may cause bladder problems, fever, dry mouth, blurred vision, confusion, dizziness, or lower heart rate.

Be careful with any tasks that require mental alertness like operating machinery or driving if you experience drowsiness or dizziness while taking Benadryl.

If you experience a serious allergic reaction or a life threatening reaction to Benadryl, call 911 or go to an emergency medical center immediately.

Anxiety can be a temporary reaction to a stressful situation, or a more long-term condition known as an anxiety disorder. There are many types of anxiety disorders, so getting an accurate diagnosis is the first step to finding treatment.

Symptoms of anxiety may include:

fast heartbeat and breathing
trouble focusing or concentrating
trouble sleeping or insomnia
fear or unreasonable worry
muscle tension
restlessness, irritability

Learn about what triggers your anxiety symptoms and reach out to a healthcare professional if your symptoms are interfering with your daily life.

You can search online to find a mental health professional or support group with these organizations:

American Psychological Association
Association of LGBTQ+ Psychiatrists
Anxiety and Depression Association of America
National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI)

Treatment depends on the type of anxiety, symptoms, and if there are other coexisting conditions such as depression.

Treatment for generalized anxiety disorder and other types of anxiety disorders includes:

pharmacotherapy (medications)
psychotherapy
other lifestyle measures to manage anxiety

Some medications that may be prescribed to treat anxiety include:

selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) (paroxetine and escitalopram)
serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) (venlafaxine)
tricyclic antidepressants (imipramine)
benzodiazepines (alprazolam), only for short-term use because there is serious risk of dependence and misuse

Psychotherapy options to help anxiety include:

cognitive behavioral therapy
psychodynamic therapy
psychoanalysis

Lifestyle strategies to manage anxiety include:

regular exercise
meditation, deep breathing, yoga
stress management
good sleep habits
healthy diet
avoid excess alcohol

Benadryl is a popular antihistamine medication that has been used for cold and allergy relief for many years.

Benadryl is not intended for long-term use, and while it may reduce anxiety symptoms in some individuals, the risks outweigh the benefits. Although it might provide temporary sleepiness, these effects don’t last with regular use.

If you’re experiencing anxiety symptoms, talk with your doctor about the best treatment options for you.

Link between Benadryl and anxiety

Benadryl is a type of antihistamine available without a prescription. It is most often used to relieve allergy symptoms such as:

runny nose

sneezing

itching

The active ingredient in Benadryl is called diphenhydramine. Like any medicine, Benadryl has a number of side effects. Some of the most common are:

feeling sleepy or sleepy

dry mouth or throat

dizziness

It is also possible that after taking Benadryl some people may feel:

restless

excitable

anxious if it happens.

Can Benadryl cause anxiety?

One of the most common side effects of Benadryl is drowsiness. Because of this, some people use Benadryl as a sleep aid.

However, it is also possible that Benadryl can do the opposite. When a drug has an effect opposite to what is expected, it is called a paradoxical effect.

In some people, Benadryl can actually have a stimulating effect called paradoxical arousal. People who experience this after taking Benadryl may report feeling:

excitable

nervous

anxious

restless

excited

awake

hyper

Why is this happening?

It is generally not known why some people develop paradoxical arousal and others do not.

One theory from a 2008 case report is related to the type of genetic variation. Three people who reported paradoxical excitability in response to diphenhydramine had extra copies of a particular gene.

This gene encodes instructions for the production of the CYP2D6 enzyme. CYP2D6 is important for the breakdown (metabolism) of certain types of drugs such as Benadryl. The presence of additional CYP2D6 can significantly speed up the metabolism of Benadryl.

The aforementioned researchers suggested that in these people Benadryl could be rapidly broken down into substances that cause excitability rather than sedation. However, further studies are needed to confirm this.

How common is it?

There are currently no estimates of how common paradoxical arousal is in people taking Benadryl.

If the fast metabolism theory is correct, it could affect a significant number of people in the United States. The 2008 report reviewed above indicates that between 1% and 2% of people in the United States have a genetic variation.

In addition, paradoxical arousal seems to be more common in children. You will actually see this effect on Benadryl product labels.

Benadryl and Central Nervous System Depression

Benadryl may slow down or depress the functions of your central nervous system (CNS).

This is what can lead to some of the common side effects of Benadryl, such as drowsiness or dizziness. This is why some people may use Benadryl to help them fall asleep or feel less restless.

Other Benadryl Side Effects

Now that we've discussed how Benadryl can be associated with feelings of excitability or anxiety, you may be wondering if Benadryl has any other similar side effects. Let's look at it now.

Benadryl addiction

A person can become dependent on Benadryl. According to the National Health Service, this can happen if it is used frequently over a period of time, such as if you use Benadryl every day for 2 weeks or longer.

When someone becomes addicted to a substance, they may also experience withdrawal symptoms after they stop using it. These may include:

tremor

insomnia

anxiety

It is important to always take Benadryl according to the directions on the product label or your doctor.

Because chronic use of Benadryl can lead to addiction, call your doctor if you find yourself taking Benadryl frequently to treat conditions such as allergies or sleep. They may recommend alternative medications that you can try instead.

Benadryl and dementia

It is possible that prolonged use of Benadryl may increase the risk of developing dementia. 2015 study description of a group of 3,434 people.

The study showed that higher cumulative intake of anticholinergic drugs was associated with an increased risk of dementia in this group. Examples of some types of anticholinergics include:

first generation antihistamines such as Benadryl

tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)

certain medicines used to treat overactive bladder

medicines used to treat symptoms of Parkinson's disease

If you are concerned about Benadryl and dementia, be sure to take Benadryl only for a short period of time. You can also ask your doctor about alternative medicines that may help treat your symptoms.

How to safely take Benadryl

Benadryl can be found in several forms, including:

Tablets

Capsules

liquids

You can find Benadryl products available without a prescription at grocery stores and pharmacies.

Benadryl tablets or capsules

According to the National Institutes of Health, Benadryl tablets or capsules contain 25 milligrams of diphenhydramine, the active ingredient. Recommended dosage of Benadryl:

Ages 12 and over: Total 1 to 2 tablets every 4-6 hours

Ages 6-12: tablets every 4-6 hours

Up to 6 years: take

Liquid Benadryl
There are also liquid forms of Benadryl that can be used for children. When measuring liquid Benadryl, it is important to use the small cup that comes with the medicine. Do not measure with a kitchen spoon.

According to the National Institutes of Health, the recommended dosage for this type of Benadryl is:
- 9014 Up to 4 years: take
Tips for taking Benadryl safely

It is also important to follow the guidelines below to make sure you take Benadryl safely and reduce the risk of side effects:
- Do not take too much in a day. Avoid taking more than 6 doses of Benadryl in 24 hours.
- Use only as needed. Because Benadryl can cause long-term side effects, be sure to only take it for a short amount of time.
- Avoid other sedatives. Because Benadryl often has a sedative effect, avoid taking it with other sedatives, sleeping pills, or alcohol.
- Be careful with activities. Since Benadryl may cause drowsiness, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery after taking it.
- Talk to your doctor if you:
  - take sedatives or a type of antidepressant called a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI)
  - have lung disease (asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema)
  - pregnant or breastfeeding
  - previously had an allergic reaction to Benadryl
When to call a doctor if you have taken Benadryl and are worried feeling:
- restlessness
- nervousness
- agitation
The feeling of paradoxical excitement usually only lasts for as long as Benadryl is in your system. It can be 4 to 6 hours.

Instead, you could try:
- taking deep breaths or slowly counting to 10 can help you feel calmer
- avoiding other stimulants like caffeine or nicotine
- exercising that helps lift your spirits
- try relaxing activities, such as yoga or meditation
Talk to your doctor if you want to recommend alternative medicines that are less likely to have these side effects.

Emergency Medical Services

Taking too much Benadryl can lead to an overdose. If you or someone else has taken Benadryl and you have any of the following symptoms, go to the emergency room or call 911. students who are late
problems with emptying the bladder (urinary retention)
Carrying or disorientation
hallucinations
Low blood pressure (hypotension)
seizures
Coma

One of the most common side effects of Benadril is sleepiness. However, some people may find that when taking Benadryl they feel:

anxious
excitable
nervous

It is not known what causes the above side effects. If you are taking Benadryl and are feeling restless or agitated, there are a few things you can do to ease these feelings until the medication wears off. Some examples include deep breaths or relaxation activities.

Use of diphenhydramine in the treatment of children with cancer

Antihistamine

Brands:

Benadryl®, Nytol®, PediaCare Children’s Allergy®, Unisom®

Other names:

Diphenhydramine hydrochloride

Often used for:

Relief of symptoms associated with allergies or hay fever, colds and allergic reactions

Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine: this drug works by blocking the activity of histamine, a substance that causes allergy symptoms.

Diphenhydramine can be used to treat a range of symptoms, including:

Allergy and cold symptoms, including irritated and itchy eyes, sneezing and runny nose
Cough
Motion sickness and nausea
Sleep disorders
Motor problems
Allergic reactions including rash, itching, swelling

This drug is often given in combination with other drugs such as pain relievers, fever reducers, and decongestants.

This drug is available by prescription and over the counter.

Intramuscular or intravenous administration in liquid form

Oral administration in tablet, capsule or lozenge form

Oral liquid form

Nausea and vomiting
Drowsiness or dizziness
Constipation
Headache
Feeling tired
Nervousness or excitability
Increased nasal congestion or chest tightness

The listed side effects are not observed in all patients who are prescribed diphenhydramine. The most common side effects are highlighted in bold, but others are not excluded. Report all possible side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.

Be sure to discuss these and other recommendations with your doctor or pharmacist.

Diphenhydramine is often used as needed.
The family of a patient under 6 years of age should consult their physician or pharmacist before taking any drug, including over-the-counter drugs. Calculate the dosage based on the available instructions and follow all recommendations for use.
Take special care when taking more than one cold or allergy medicine at the same time. These products may contain the same ingredients, resulting in an overdose if they are taken together. Read the instructions on the package carefully and discuss any questions with your doctor or pharmacist.

Diphenhydramine home use:

Do not exceed the recommended dose and frequency of use.
If the drug causes stomach upset, it must be taken with food.
Capsules should be swallowed whole. Do not crush or chew before taking.
Chewable tablets should be completely chewed before swallowing.
Absorbable tablets or lozenges should be kept on the tongue until completely dissolved, and then washed down with a sip of liquid.
When taking diphenhydramine in liquid form, measure the dosage using the measuring device included in the kit.
Learn more

Benadryl side effects anxiety