Diphenhydramine helps relieve symptoms of cold and allergy, such as runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, and sneezing. It also helps relieve allergic skin conditions such as hives or itchy rash.
This medicine may also help you fall asleep if you have difficulty sleeping.
Diphenhydramine may be used to treat other conditions as decided by your doctor.
Take Diphenhydramine exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
You may take this medicine with or without food.
Diphenhydramine is available as a capsule, tablet, oral solution or syrup.
If you are taking the oral solution or syrup, use the measuring spoon or cup provided to measure your dose. Shake well the bottle of your oral syrup before taking the medicine to ensure that the liquid is evenly mixed.
You may stop taking this medicine once you feel better, unless your doctor has instructed you otherwise.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
Do not give Diphenhydramine to newborn or premature babies unless instructed to do so by the doctor.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- enlarged prostate gland
- difficulty passing urine
- lung or breathing problems e.g. asthma, bronchitis (a lung condition where your airways are inflamed and produce a lot of mucus [phlegm])
- increased pressure in the eye
- peptic ulcer (open sores in the lining of the stomach, small intestine, or lower food pipe)
- blocked bowel
- high blood pressure
- heart disease
- thyroid problems
- myasthenia gravis (muscle weakness disorder)
- epilepsy (fits or seizures)
- moderate to severe kidney disease
- moderate to severe liver disease
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Diphenhydramine to a child or the elderly. Children and elderly people may be more sensitive to the side effects.
If you are going to have certain laboratory tests (e.g. drug test, skin test), inform your doctor that you are taking this medicine.
Diphenhydramine may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert or need to see clearly.
Other side effects include any of the following: headache, tiredness, restlessness, nervousness, stomach discomfort, nausea, vomiting, constipation, thickening of phlegm, dry mouth, chills, confusion, problem concentrating, difficulty passing urine or frequent urination, and loss of appetite.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- certain medicines to treat depression e.g. amitriptyline, imipramine, isocarboxazid, phenelzine, tranylcypromine
- medicines that cause drowsiness or affect your concentration
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Diphenhydramine.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol. Alcohol intake may worsen the dizziness and drowsiness caused by Diphenhydramine.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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