Benadryl Drug Study

Diphenhydramine hydrochloride
Brand Name: Benadryl, Tusstat
Pregnancy Category B
Drug classes: Antihistamine, Anti-motion sickness agent,
Sedative/hypnotic, Antiparkinsonian agent, Cough suppressant

Therapeutic actions
Competitively blocks the effects of histamine at H1-receptor sites, has
atropine-like, antipruritic, and sedative effects.

Indications
Relief of symptoms associated with perennial and seasonal allergic
rhinitis; vasomotor rhinitis; allergic conjunctivitis; mild,
uncomplicated urticaria and angioedema; amelioration of allergic
reactions to blood or plasma; dermatographism; adjunctive therapy in
anaphylactic reactions
Active and prophylactic treatment of motion sickness
Nighttime sleep aid
Parkinsonism (including drug-induced parkinsonism
and extrapyramidal reactions), in the elderly intolerant of more potent
agents, for milder forms of the disorder in other age groups, and in
combination with centrally acting anticholinergicantiparkinsonian drugs
Suppression of cough due to colds or allergy (syrup formulation)
Contraindications

 Contraindicated with allergy to any antihistamines, third trimester of

pregnancy, lactation.

Adverse effects
Drowsiness, sedation, dizziness, disturbed coordination, fatigue, confusion,
restlessness, excitation, nervousness, tremor, headache, blurred
vision, diplopia
Hypotension, palpitations, bradycardia, tachycardia, extrasystoles
Epigastric distress, anorexia, increased appetite and weight gain, nausea,
vomiting, diarrhea or constipation
Urinary frequency, dysuria, urinary retention, early menses, decreased libido,
impotence
Hemolytic anemia, hypoplastic anemia,
thrombocytopenia, leukopenia, agranulocytosis, pancytopenia
Thickening of bronchial secretions, chest tightness, wheezing, nasal
stuffiness, dry mouth, dry nose, dry throat, sore throat
Urticaria, rash, anaphylactic shock, photosensitivity, excessive
perspiration

Drug Interactions:
Possible increased and prolonged anticholinergic effects with MAO
inhibitors
Nursing considerations
Administer with food if GI upset occurs.
Administer syrup form if patient is unable to take tablets.

 Monitor patient response, and arrange for adjustment of dosage to

lowest possible effective dose.