Diphenhydramine risks outweigh therapeutic benefits
2025-05-19 18:23:31.311414+02 by Dan Lyke 0 comments
Yikes: World Allergy Organization Journal: Diphenhydramine: It is time to say a final goodbye
Diphenhydramine is not recommended for people with specific health problems, including closed-angle glaucoma, dry eyes, peptic ulcer, constipation, and urinary retention. In addition, regular use of diphenhydramine poses risks for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Due to anticholinergic properties, cumulative use of first-generation antihistamines confers risks for people over age 65, including Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia.
Paradoxical stimulation with agitation and confusion is often the presenting sign of harm from first-generation medications in children, followed by extreme sedation and coma. Consuming more than the recommended dose has produced cardiac toxicity because of prolonged QTc and arrhythmias.