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Experts call for removal of diphenhydramine

A new review suggests eliminating diphenhydramine due to its dangers and availability of safer alternatives.

August 1, 2025 at 10:00 AM

Common allergy medication’s risks outweigh its usefulness, experts say

Health experts urge the removal of diphenhydramine due to its risks and availability of safer alternatives.

Risks of common allergy medication lead experts to recommend removal

Health experts are calling for the removal of diphenhydramine, widely known as Benadryl, from both over-the-counter and prescription markets in the United States. A review by allergy specialists from notable institutions like Johns Hopkins University highlights the medication's outdated nature and risks. They emphasize that newer antihistamines provide better symptom relief with fewer side effects. Diphenhydramine, approved in 1946, can lead to sedation, cognitive impairment, and even serious reactions in both children and the elderly. Notably, the medication has been linked to recent incidents of misuse among youth, including accidental overdoses connected to social media trends. Experts advocate for alternative medications like cetirizine and loratadine.

Key Takeaways

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Experts recommend removing diphenhydramine from the market.

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Safer alternatives like loratadine are more effective.

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Diphenhydramine may cause sedation and cognitive issues.

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It remains common in households, but poses risks.

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New recommendations stress caution with its use in children.

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Healthcare providers should guide patients to better options.

"For every single indication that people are using diphenhydramine, there are better drugs that are more effective."

Dr. Anna Wolfson emphasizes the availability of safer, more effective alternatives to diphenhydramine.

"Its current therapeutic ratio is matched or exceeded by second-generation antihistamines."

The review authors argue that newer medications outperform diphenhydramine in safety and effectiveness.

"Diphenhydramine should not be used lightly."

Dr. Manuela Murray warns of the risks associated with diphenhydramine, especially in children.

"It is time to say a final goodbye to diphenhydramine."

The authors of the review suggest that this medication poses excessive risks relative to its benefits.

The ongoing reliance on diphenhydramine, despite its known dangers, reflects a larger issue in public health where traditional medications remain popular even when safer options are available. The risk of using diphenhydramine is especially troubling for vulnerable populations, such as children and older adults. As more medical recommendations shift towards these alternatives, one must question the role of traditional medications in everyday healthcare. The call to reclassify diphenhydramine suggests a need for regulatory updates to better align pharmaceutical availability with modern health standards.

Highlights

Diphenhydramine is a public health hazard that needs to go.
Safer antihistamines are here; it's time to move on from diphenhydramine.
Long-term use of diphenhydramine could lead to dementia risks.
Why stick with old meds when better options exist?

Concerns about diphenhydramine use

Experts warn that diphenhydramine poses significant health risks, especially for children and the elderly. Its continuing availability raises concerns about public safety and appropriate medical guidance.

As awareness grows, shifts in medication guidelines may reshape how allergies are treated in the future.

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allergies public health medications safety regulations health medicine

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