Health
Is It Time to Rethink Benadryl for Allergies?
Health Points
- Experts advise against using Benadryl for daily allergy relief due to risks and side effects.
- Newer antihistamines are just as effective, with fewer side effects and longer lasting action.
- Benadryl may still be helpful in certain emergency, short-term, or cost-sensitive situations.
Health professionals are urging adults to reconsider turning to Benadryl as a first choice for allergy relief. While it’s long been a household name, its safety profile has come under renewed scrutiny with the arrival of safer, longer-lasting alternatives.
New medical reviews suggest Benadryl and other products containing diphenhydramine may be better left in the past, especially for routine use. This medication can cause drowsiness, confusion, and slow reaction times, increasing the risk of falls in older adults.
“We definitely don’t recommend Benadryl for chronic daily use,” said Sarah Taylor-Black, MD, an allergist and clinical immunologist at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center.
Newer antihistamines like cetirizine, loratadine, and fexofenadine provide the same allergy relief but are less sedating and last up to 24 hours. In contrast, Benadryl lasts just 4 to 6 hours and crosses into the central nervous system, causing more side effects.
Diphenhydramine has also been linked to cognitive decline and an increased risk of dementia when used long-term. Research warns that the drug can impair sleep quality and next-day alertness, particularly when taken frequently.
Despite these drawbacks, some experts believe Benadryl still has a role in specific situations. For example, it can be appropriate for immediate allergy relief after a severe reaction to stings or foods, or for children with eczema struggling to sleep due to itching.
“When used appropriately, it’s safe and effective for short-term use in children and is typically very well tolerated,” said Michael Steiner, MD, MPH, pediatrician-in-chief at UNC Children’s Hospital.
Benadryl also remains a low-cost alternative for those needing occasional allergy care. Still, everyone should remember that “over-the-counter” does not guarantee a lack of risk, especially for older adults.
Talk with your healthcare provider before choosing an allergy medication to make sure you’re using the best option for your needs.
