1. Health

Discuss in my forum

Readers Respond: Common Side Effects of Benadryl

Responses: 2

By , About.com Guide

Updated December 12, 2009

This content is not monitored by About.com's Medical Review Board.
Before acting on this information, check with your health provider.

From the article: Benadryl
Benadryl is a commonly used antihistamine for the treatment of allergies, and it is also used as a sleep aid since it causes drowsiness. I don't routinely recommend the use of Benadryl for the treatment of allergic conditions based on its potential for side effects. In addition to drowsiness, Benadryl can impair a person's ability to drive a car or operate machinery, can cause dry mouth, urinary retention, constipation, and cause hyperactivity and seizures in young children. Did you know about these side effects of Benadryl? Would you have taken Benadryl if you were aware of the side effects beforehand? Share Your Thoughts

BENADRYL SIDE EFFECTS IS TRADE-OFF

Sometimes you have to take an OTC med in spite of the side effects because it is difficult to perform your day to day activities without it. There is a trade-off with all meds and the prescription drugs usually have much stronger side effects and are costly. You have to decide on the least dangerous path to control the problem that you have. In my case it is Benadryl.
—azloafer

Stop Being Paranoid

Benadryl's side effects happen in what number of people. Sleepy, sure, for many, but come on . . . it has been around for years, and it works. Are its side effects as bad as ASA?
—Guest Joe

Share Your Thoughts

Common Side Effects of Benadryl

Receive a one-time notification when your response is published.

©2012 About.com. All rights reserved.

A part of The New York Times Company.

We comply with the HONcode standard
for trustworthy health
information: verify here.