Diphenhydramine hydrochloride is an antihistamine drug used to treat colds and allergies and reduce insomnia symptoms. Side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, dry nose and mouth, and nausea, which can be reduced by sipping water or sucking on ice chips. Patients should avoid heavy machinery and prolonged physical activity until side effects subside. Combined use with other drowsiness-producing drugs or substances, including alcohol, can produce extreme effects. It is recommended to consult a doctor before use.
Diphenhydramine hydrochloride, also called diphenhydramine hcl, is an antihistamine drug commonly used to treat colds and allergies. Diphenhydramine is also used in sleep medications to reduce insomnia symptoms. Side effects of diphenhydramine often include drowsiness, dizziness, dry nose and mouth, and nausea. Medical experts note that diphenhydramine side effects can often reduce in number or severity as a patient’s body adjusts to the drug. The side effects of diphenhydramine are usually not serious, but the drug’s manufacturers note that serious side effects such as an allergic reaction, difficult breathing, or an irregular heartbeat are possible, and in these cases, patients should see a doctor immediately.
An antihistamine drug, diphenhydramine works by blocking the body’s reaction to histamines. Histamines are released by the body’s immune system in response to infections or allergens. In the case of allergens, typical symptoms include watery eyes, runny nose and post-nasal drip which can cause coughing. The side effects of diphenhydramine such as dry mouth and nose are directly related to the antihistamine properties that stop the runny nose and watery eyes. Side effects such as dry nose or mouth can be reduced by sipping water or sucking on ice chips.
Patients should evaluate the possible side effects of diphenhydramine, including drowsiness and dizziness, before operating any heavy machinery. In the event of marked dizziness or drowsiness, a user may need to avoid prolonged physical activity until side effects subside. Medical experts note that the antihistamine properties of diphenhydramine can thicken the mucous membranes in the lungs, occasionally making it more difficult to breathe. Headaches can also result from the drying properties of diphenhydramine. Users should drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration which often leads to these side effects.
Side effects of diphenhydramine such as increased drowsiness and dizziness may be magnified when combined with other drowsiness-producing drugs or substances, including alcohol. Patients who routinely use medications such as antiepileptic drugs, narcotic pain relievers, and anxiety medications or antidepressants should discuss them with a doctor before using diphenhydramine, as combined use can produce extreme effects. Patients should also report any additional prescription or over-the-counter medications they use regularly so that a physician can assess the risk of potential adverse drug interactions. The side effects of diphenhydramine are typically not harmful or serious, but it is generally recommended to consult a doctor before use.
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