Diphenhydramine is an active ingredient in Benadryl. It is an antihistamine with anticholinergic (drying) and sedative side effects. Antihistamines appear to compete with histamine for cell receptor sites. Diphenhydramine may cause marked drowsiness. This effect may be increased if you are currently taking sedatives or tranquilizers, or if you use alcohol. If you are currently taking a sedative or tranquilizer, you must first check with your physician to determine if this is an appropriate medication for you to take. Consult with your health care provider before using Benadryl if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Allergies - or allergic reactions -- occur when your body over-reacts to substances contained in mold, pollen and animal dander. These substances are called allergens. In reacting to allergens, your body produces chemicals, including histamine, which acts in the nose and eyes to cause congestion, itching, sneezing and other uncomfortable symptoms. Benadryl is an antihistamine that blocks the effects of histamine in your body, relieving your worst allergy symptoms. Different people have allergic reactions at different times of the year. Seasonal allergies may occur a few times a year, often as reaction to certain pollens in the air. Perennial allergies may occur at any point throughout the year, or in reaction to a specific allergen that is present in the environment. (i.e. animal dander)
|
