Can you take benadryl with propranolol


Can You Take Benadryl And Propranolol Together?

In our latest question and answer, the pharmacist discusses whether or not Benadryl (diphenhydramine) can be used with propranolol.

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Question

Is it safe to take propranolol & Benadryl (Nytol in the U.K)? I’ve been having trouble sleeping but don’t want to mix medications. Is there a reaction?

Asked by Serialdan On Oct 05, 2022

Key points

  • There is no drug interaction between Benadryl and propranolol, although they do share some similar side effects, such as drowsiness and dizziness.

Answer

It is safe to take Benadry/Nytol (diphenhydramine) with propranolol as there is no interaction between the two medications.

They do, however, share some similar side effects that are important to be aware of.

Interaction Detail

Both Nytol and Benadryl are brand names for diphenhydramine, a sedating first-generation antihistamine that is often used for allergies and insomnia.

Propranolol, brand name Inderal, is a beta blocker that is indicated for a variety of conditions including angina, high blood pressure, and migraine prophylaxis.

While both Benadryl and propranolol can be used together, caution is advised in regard to the potential for additive adverse reactions such as sedation and dizziness.

Propranolol is known to cause sedation and orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure while standing), which can cause dizziness. Benadryl causes drowsiness as well.

Final Words

As stated, there is no drug-drug interaction between Benadryl and propranolol. Just be aware of the potential sedation they can both cause.

References

  • Diphenhydramine Monograph, PubChem
  • Propranolol Monograph, PubChem

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About the Pharmacist

Dr.
Brian Staiger, PharmD

Dr. Brian has been practicing pharmacy for over 11 years and has wide-ranging experiences in many different areas of the profession. From retail, clinical and administrative responsibilities, he's your knowledgeable and go-to source for all your pharmacy and medication-related questions! Feel free to send him an email at [email protected]! You can also connect with Dr. Brian Staiger on LinkedIn.

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Propranolol Interactions with Drugs, Food & Conditions

OverviewDosageSide EffectsInteractionsHalf-Life

As is the case with any other medication, there may be some instances where propranolol interactions can occur. In such cases, use is not recommended, or usage will have to be adjusted in order to prevent or reduce the risk of negative interactions occurring from other drugs, medical conditions, or even food and drink.

Drug Interactions

According to the FDA, drugs that may interact with this medication include the following.

  • Inducers and inhibitors of cytochrome P-450 enzyme 1A2
  • Antiarrhythmics
  • Calcium channel blockers
  • Migraine medications such as zolmitriptan 
  • Theophylline
  • Benzodiazepines
  • Neuroleptic drugs such as thioridazine or chlorpromazine
  • Anti-ulcer drugs such as cimetidine
  • Lipid-lowering drugs like cholestyramine or colestipol
  • Warfarin
  • Alcohol

Please note that this list may not be complete, and other interactions with drugs not listed here may occur.

NSAIDs (Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)

NSAIDs reduce pain and fever and work by inhibiting certain isoenzymes. Examples of NSAIDs include ibuprofen, or, the brand-name medicine, Advil.

Taking an NSAID with propranolol may interfere with some of the actions of the propranolol, such as lowering blood pressure. Anyone prescribed propranolol should tell their doctor if they frequently take ibuprofen or Advil.  

Benadryl (Diphenhydramine)

Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine sold under many brand names, including Benadryl. It is also an ingredient in nighttime pain relievers such as Tylenol PM or Advil PM because this drug causes drowsiness. 

Taking any over-the-counter medication with diphenhydramine while on propranolol may have additive effects because the two drugs have similar side effects. There may be a drop in blood pressure, for example. Some people experience headaches when taking both medications. Other common complications of taking both drugs include lightheadedness, fainting, and changes in heart rate. 

Methadone (Diskets)

Methadone, typically sold under the brand names Dolophine or Methadose, is an opioid drug used as part of opioid maintenance therapy. Someone who has an opioid use disorder might take methadone as a replacement to avoid severe withdrawal. Although methadone is also addictive, detoxing from it tends to be easier.  

Propranolol is a potential aid during detoxification. One study found that patients taking propranolol during the detox process were more likely to complete the program. 

Adderall

Adderall is a stimulant drug capable of increasing blood pressure. Propranolol is a beta-blocker used to control blood pressure. In other words, the two drugs tend to work against each other. Taking them in combination is something one would only do with the approval of a physician. 

THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)

THC is the active ingredient in marijuana. It may also be an active ingredient in cannabis edibles and other products on the market in states where marijuana is legal. Combining it with propranolol may interfere with its ability to lower blood pressure. People who use marijuana products regularly should alert their doctors before taking propranolol. 

Epinephrine (EpiPen)

Epinephrine given through an EpiPen opens up the bronchial tubes in an emergency, such as a major allergic reaction. Your doctor might prescribe something other than propranolol if you carry an EpiPen. Propranolol can decrease the effectiveness of epinephrine and may interfere with opening the bronchial tubes in an emergency. 

Albuterol / Salbutamol (ProAir HFA)

Albuterol/salbutamol opens up the bronchial tubes for those with a chronic respiratory condition such as COPD or asthma. Taking propranolol may decrease the ability of albuterol/salbutamol to open those tubes and improve breathing. 

Food Interactions

Sometimes the foods we eat and the beverages we drink can also interact with our medications. Food and drink that may interact with this drug include:

  • Caffeine, especially in beverages such as coffee, tea, or soda

Please note that this list may not be complete, and there may be other foods and beverages that interact with this drug.

Propranolol and Alcohol

For more information, please visit our page on propranolol and alcohol interactions.

Vitamins & Supplements

One should also discuss taking vitamin supplements with a doctor before beginning treatment with propranolol. Dietary supplements can sometimes affect the absorption of medications. 

When approved by your doctor, it is a good idea to take vitamin supplements at least two hours before or after taking a dose of propranolol. Taking them together might decrease the effectiveness of propranolol. 

Disease & Conditions Interactions

Sometimes certain medications can increase the risk of negative side effects for patients with certain diseases or other medical conditions. According to the FDA, diseases, and medical conditions that are known to negatively interact with propranolol include:

  • Cardiogenic shock
  • Sinus bradycardia and greater than first-degree block
  • Bronchial asthma
  • History of heart failure
  • Nonallergic bronchospasms such as chronic bronchitis or emphysema
  • After major surgery
  • Diabetes

Please note that this list may not be complete, and there may be other diseases and medical conditions where patients should not take this medication.

Propranolol and Pregnancy

For more information, please visit our page on propranolol and pregnancy risks.

Propranolol and Breastfeeding

For more information, please visit our page on propranolol and breastfeeding risks.

Weight Gain

Beta-blockers like propranolol can cause weight gain in the first few months of treatment.

Disclaimer: this article does not constitute or replace medical advice. If you have an emergency or a serious medical question, please contact a medical professional or call 911 immediately. To see our full medical disclaimer, visit our Terms of Use page.


More about Propranolol

  • Pregnancy Risks
  • Withdrawal
  • Propranolol Alternatives
  • Propranolol and Alcohol Interactions
  • Propranolol for Anxiety
  • Propranolol for Tremors
  • How long does Propranolol last?
  • How quickly does Propranolol work for anxiety?
  • Propranolol Contraindications
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What does anxiety look like?

Anxiety is a psychological and physiological condition characterized by cognitive, somatic, emotional and behavioral components. The word "anxiety" comes from the Latin word "anxius", which means worries and worries. This is something that everyone experiences at least once in their life. However, there is little difference between normal anxious thoughts or feelings and severe psychiatric anxiety.

Anxiety is a biological human reaction that we experience when we are in threatening situations, feeling nervous, worried or scared. Usually anxiety is associated with thoughts about what might happen next.

Medical Definition of Anxiety

To be diagnosed as a mental health condition, anxiety must affect or interfere with people's ability to perform typical daily activities or interact with the world around them. Some people may experience severe functional anxiety, which means they manage to manage their symptoms relatively well, but it still causes significant stress.

According to the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD10), anxiety disorder belongs to the " category of mental disorders characterized by anxious feelings or fear, often accompanied by physical symptoms associated with anxiety ".

So how do you know if you have anxiety?

Nowadays, many people state that they experience anxiety every time they find themselves in situations where they feel anxious, which is a natural reaction, and accept mild panic or justified fears as causes of anxiety - this does not always mean that they have diagnosis.

Doing home anxiety tests or online tests that match how you feel with symptoms of an anxiety attack is not enough to make a diagnosis – you should consult a psychotherapist who can perform medically recognized anxiety tests and can recommend therapy or medication for concerns where appropriate.

Types of anxiety

Symptoms of anxiety disorders overlap with each other and with symptoms of diagnosed anxiety, but occur intermittently over a period of time. Medically, anxiety as a symptom can refer to the fact that a person experiences anxious feelings, indicating a diagnosis of one of six types of anxiety:

  • Generalized anxiety disorder

The IDC10 describes generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) as chronic anxiety. It is defined as a long-term condition, and people who are diagnosed with the condition usually experience symptoms on a daily or very frequent basis. It is important to remember that many people worry in certain situations, but this does not automatically mean that they have generalized anxiety disorder.

  • Panic disorder

Panic disorder is a subcategory of anxiety described by sudden and recurring panic attacks caused by intense fear, accompanied by physical symptoms. It is important to remember that everyone can feel panic or fear in certain situations because this is a natural reaction, but this does not mean that they have a panic disorder.

  • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

OCD is characterized by recurrent obsessions (unwanted thoughts) and compulsions (repetitive behaviors). Examples include washing hands or constantly checking things. It is important to remember that many people can be considered perfectionists, but this does not automatically mean that they have obsessive-compulsive disorder.

  • Post-traumatic stress disorder

PTSD is a subcategory of anxiety that develops as a result of an event or series of events in which a person felt extremely threatened or psychologically harmed. Examples of events that can trigger PTSD are natural disasters, accidents, military service, but the causes can be expanded to any type of event that has been experienced by a person as a major trauma, including mental abuse.

  • Social anxiety

Also known as social phobia, this is a type of anxiety that manifests itself as an overpowering feeling of exaggerated self-awareness when or before a person is confronted with social situations. They may be specific to certain situations, such as public speaking or eating in the presence of someone else, or extended to the extent that a person experiences them regardless of social context. While most people get nervous in social situations, that doesn't mean they have symptoms of anxiety. Before making a diagnosis, specialists may do a social anxiety test.

  • Separation anxiety disorder

Separation anxiety disorder is one of the most common forms of anxiety in children. As a rule, it is manifested by unreasonable fear and anxiety about the absence of certain people. Childhood anxiety is diagnosed if symptoms persist for more than 4 weeks. Separation anxiety in children has similar manifestations in children and adolescents, but refers to the age group of 6 months to 3 years.

  • Postpartum anxiety

Postpartum anxiety is directly related to postpartum depression. Postpartum depression occurs in new mothers who experience a series of acute, long-lasting depressions after childbirth. Postpartum anxiety can appear after birth in people who have not previously experienced or been diagnosed with anxiety.

High functional anxiety is the secret to managing anxiety

High functional anxiety is a general term used by people with an anxiety diagnosis, but it is not a form of anxiety or a mental health diagnosis. These people have not necessarily learned to control their anxiety, but they feel they can manage their symptoms quite well. The broad explanation for how high-functioning anxiety works is that instead of allowing thoughts to trigger a "freeze" response, it activates a "fight" response, in much the same way that it helps a person move forward.

People diagnosed with forms of anxiety increasingly appear to be successful and collected, no matter how anxious they are on the inside.

Anxiety symptoms. How does anxiety manifest itself?

The body reacts in a very specific way when it is anxious, but symptoms can vary from person to person. However, the symptoms of anxiety in women do not differ significantly from those in men—women are twice as likely to be diagnosed with anxiety.

As the body enters a state of high alert, also known as "high alert", when feeling restless, common symptoms experienced by the mind include feeling tense and unable to relax, restlessness, feeling like time is slowing down or speeding up, rumination (rethinking), the impression that if you stop worrying something bad will happen and a constant feeling that others see what you feel. In some types of anxiety, people may experience depersonalization, which is a dissociation from themselves, or derealization, which is a dissociation from their environment.

  • Physical symptoms of anxiety

Anxiety manifests itself in very different ways for everyone and sometimes these symptoms can be ignored if they are associated with a state of nervousness. In adults, generalized anxiety disorder can cause physical symptoms, including difficulty breathing, abdominal pain and feeling unwell, muscle tension, excessive sweating or dry mouth, dizziness, headaches, or trouble sleeping (insomnia).

The severity of these symptoms depends on the type and severity of anxiety the person is experiencing. Treatment is based on the severity of the symptoms. While self-care can help reduce the effects of anxiety on the body, cognitive behavioral therapy is one of the most effective recommended treatments.

  • Anxiety rashes

Anxiety rashes are caused by disproportionate release of chemicals in the body and usually appear in connection with stress or anxiety. They can be treated with antihistamines, but should not be confused with allergies because in order to cure them completely, patients must learn coping mechanisms to reduce their levels of anxiety and stress, rather than relying on allergy medications. Treatment may include cognitive behavioral therapy, medication, or response prevention.

  • Anxiety tics

Tics are sudden, uncontrollable muscle movements or sounds. They can be a sign of Tourette syndrome but can also be associated with anxiety and stress. Examples of tics include blinking, twitching, snapping fingers, or repeating phrases and sounds. Medical attention should be sought if tics occur regularly and affect the person emotionally or interfere with their life.

  • Anxious chest tightness

Many people wonder how anxiety can cause chest pain. Chest pain from anxiety can feel differently for different people, but is usually described as a burning sensation, tightness in the chest, sharp pain in the chest area, a feeling of unusual twitching in the chest, or stabbing pressure.

Chest tightness due to anxiety can be alarming, especially in people who do not have a relevant medical history, making people think they are experiencing a heart attack. Therefore, it is advised to seek emergency medical attention when you experience these symptoms.

  • Heart palpitations

Heart palpitations may be experienced along with anxiety, manifested by a feeling of rapid heartbeat, rapid heartbeat, or irregular heartbeat (feeling that the heart skips a beat). Because anxiety triggers the fight-or-flight response in the human body, the autonomic nervous system (ANS) increases the heart rate, causing people to have a rapid heart rate.

Depression or anxiety

By definition, depression is a single disease, while anxiety encompasses a group of mental health conditions that branch out into different manifestations (eg, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, etc. ).

In the case of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), symptoms of depression and anxiety may overlap, including fatigue, restlessness, and sleep problems. Symptoms unique to depression compared to anxiety are weight changes, guilt, feelings of worthlessness or low self-esteem, and in advanced cases, suicidal thoughts.

In many cases, depression and anxiety can be present at the same time—studies show that about 50% of people diagnosed with GAD also experience depression. Because the symptoms of depression and anxiety overlap, it can sometimes be more difficult to rule out one or the other entirely, some healthcare professionals even classify "Mixed Anxiety and Depressive Disorder" (MADD) as the distinguishing diagnosis. The diagnosis can be made after a series of tests for depression and anxiety.

Depression and anxiety treatment also overlap and fall into two main categories: depression and anxiety medicine and psychological therapy.

Anxiety attack or panic attack

Anxiety attacks are not mentioned in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), however panic attacks are recognized in the manual and can be classified as expected (caused by external factors, including phobias) ) or unexpected (unknown trigger cause)). Recurring panic attacks can be a sign of anxiety.

It is not easy to distinguish between panic attacks and anxiety attacks. Panic attacks and anxiety attacks share a number of common physical symptoms of anxiety, which include rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing, sweating or dry mouth, shaking, dizziness, and headaches. A distinctive feature is the emotional symptoms: in an anxiety attack, a person experiences anxiety, distress and anxiety, while in panic attacks there is a fear of death, derealization (detachment from reality) or depersonalization (detachment from oneself). Emotional displays are what make it difficult to know how to help an anxiety attack or help anxiety attacks to spread from person to person.

Because people experience it differently, it can be difficult to find answers to questions such as "what does an anxiety attack look like?" or “how long do anxiety attacks last?” but they are usually described as a burst of inexplicable, irrational fear that can last an average of 5 to 20 minutes.

There is no guaranteed way to stop an anxiety attack, but some things may work or help reduce symptoms. In the long term, it is always best to seek medical advice and professional therapy or counseling to help manage an anxiety attack. At the moment, there are several effective techniques that begin with the awareness and awareness that you are experiencing an anxiety attack. Using breathing exercises, muscle relaxation techniques, closing your eyes, or focusing on a specific object can help as a temporary treatment for anxiety attacks.

When do you feel anxious?

Due to the nature of anxiety disorders, people may experience symptoms in connection with a wide range of situations and circumstances and may be caused by several external factors. Some examples include

  • Relationship anxiety: refers to anxiety arising in relationships, usually intimate ones. This is not a recognized disease, but according to statistics, 1 out of 5 people has it. people who have been diagnosed with anxiety should be wary of what some call “anxious relationships” — where people purposefully enter relationships to distract themselves from their symptoms, rather than working with a therapist with experience in anxiety to learn healthy coping mechanisms.
  • Driving anxiety: refers to driving anxiety when people feel uncomfortable when faced with a situation where they have to drive or just be in a car. Especially when driving, you should be careful if the symptoms of a panic attack are imminent, stop safely and try to stop the attack. Causes may include involvement in accidents or certain phobias (agoraphobia) and fears (bridges and tunnels).
  • Work alarm: you must distinguish anxiety from stress. What cause of work-related anxiety can be attributed to constant performance anxiety, fear of not being good enough, also known as impostor syndrome, or fear of criticism?

3 questions about anxiety

  • Is anxiety a disability?

Under the Equality Act 2010, a mental disorder is considered a disability if it has more than a minor long-term (12 months) impact on daily activities (“normal activities of daily living”). Anxiety disorders may qualify as a disability in some parts of the world, which allows you to receive cash assistance if you qualify.

  • Is anxiety a mental illness?

Anxiety can be diagnosed as a type of mental health condition often referred to in the medical world as a mental illness. After receiving an official diagnosis, anxiety medications may be prescribed, as well as natural anxiety supplements or therapy to help reduce anxiety symptoms.

  • Is anxiety genetic?

If anxiety appears after the age of 20, it may be related to significant life events or environmental factors. If no known causes are found, then the sooner childhood anxiety is corrected, the more likely it is genetic.

Treatment for Anxiety

Anxiety manifests itself differently in each person diagnosed with it, so there is no best cure for anxiety that is right for everyone. Because anxiety medications can affect brain function, they must be monitored and prescribed by professionals, usually after several tests for anxiety and depression. There are no over-the-counter anxiety medications (over-the-counter purchase), but people can opt for natural anxiety remedies if anxiety medications are not prescribed. Medications are prescribed specifically, depending on the situation: suffering from active panic attacks or anxiety as a generalized condition.

  • Beta blockers for anxiety

These medicines are prescribed for anxiety and depression. An example is propranolol, which is prescribed for heart problems, but it can also be used for chest pain, anxiety symptoms associated with heart problems, or high blood pressure.

  • Anxiety Benadryl

This is one of the most common over-the-counter anxiety medications because of its fast acting on mild anxiety. However, like all other so-called "best anxiety medications", it should only be taken according to professional instructions, as it can lead to addiction.

  • Vitamin A for anxiety

Some studies show a correlation between people who are deficient in vitamin A and those who are predisposed to developing anxiety disorders. Supposed to be in a class of natural anxiety medications, vitamin A may be helpful in minimizing feelings of anxiety caused by anxiety.

  • Ketamine for anxiety

Although known as a drug, a study was conducted to determine if ketamine could be an alternative treatment for depression and anxiety. This is a new therapy and more research needs to be done.

How to calm anxiety?

None of the suggestions below should be considered as a treatment for anxiety, but rather as a way to manage it and reduce symptoms. They can be recommended as stand-alone anxiety-relieving supplements and used in combination with natural anxiety-relieving remedies.

  • Anxiety Painting - art therapy can be used to allow the mind to focus on something other than the anxiety symptoms you are experiencing. You can try drawing or coloring.
  • Anxiety Tea - soothing tea can be useful, especially for those who constantly say: "I wake up with anxiety." Some herbs of concern include peppermint, chamomile, lavender, and rose tea. A calming tea can also help those struggling with insomnia.
  • Meditation for anxiety. The practice of meditation can be a mindful method of dealing with anxiety and can be a useful tool for those experiencing anxiety or panic attacks, or for those who wake up with anxiety symptoms to start the day. You can search the internet for "meditation therapy near me" for guided meditation sessions.
  • Anxiety crystals. People believe that certain crystals and gems have healing properties. Rose quartz and moonstone are recommended for anxiety relief.
  • Breathing Exercises - An example of a breathing technique you can use is called "box breathing": exhale to a count of 4, keep your lungs empty to a count of 4, inhale to a count of 4, hold the air in your lungs until you count to 4 and repeat.
  • Anxiety Piercing - Some sources suggest that Data's piercing on the inner crease of the ear can help relieve symptoms of anxiety as well as migraines.
  • Natural Remedies for Anxiety: Some research suggests that taking ashwagandha for anxiety or taking supplements can help relieve stress.
  • Anxiety Affirmations - Along with meditation, some people may prefer to read anxiety quotes, anxiety scriptures, or depression and anxiety quotes to find motivation and relief. An example would be the phrase "I am safe and not threatened by the world", which can be used as a mental remedy for social anxiety.

So what is an anxiety disorder in a nutshell?

Anxiety is a natural human emotion. It is uncontrollable and is caused by life situations with an unknown outcome, usually related to the future. The signs and symptoms of anxiety can vary from person to person. For a professional diagnosis, you should talk to your doctor - they need to know your medical history, current condition, and any symptoms you may have experienced. You can find specialists by searching for "anxiety doctors near me" or "anxiety therapists near me" and start from there.


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