Healthline.com
1. Chicken soup...effective for reducing the symptoms of upper respiratory infections in particular...
2. Ginger...may help soothe a cough or sore throat...
3. Honey...has a variety of antibacterial and antimicrobial properties...
4. Garlic...
5. Echinacea...
6. Vitamin C...
7. Probiotics...
8. Salt water...
Learn More...Mayoclinic.org
1. Stay hydrated...water, juice, clear broth or warm lemon water with honey helps loosen congestion and prevents dehydration...
2. Rest...your body needs to heal...
3. Soothe a sore throat...
4. Combat stuffiness...
5. Relieve pain...
6. Sip warm liquids...
7. Add moisture to the air...
Learn More...Medicalnewstoday.com
1. Zinc...prevents rhinovirus...
2. Honey...allow it to fight some bacteria and viruses...
3. Echinacea...help prevent colds and relieve nasal symptoms...
4. Garlic...it has antibacterial and antiviral properties...
5. Menthol...
6. Vitamin D...
7. Oregano oil...
8. Reducing stress and sleeping well...
Learn More...What are the side effects of taking Benadryl?
Stop using Benadryl and call your doctor at once if you have:
- pounding heartbeats or fluttering in your chest;
- painful or difficult urination;
- little or no urinating;
- confusion, feeling like you might pass out; or
- tightness in your neck or jaw, uncontrollable movements of your tongue.
Should I take Benadryl to treat a cold or allergy?
What are some things I need to know or do while I take Benadryl Allergy/Cold?
- Tell all of your health care providers that you take Benadryl Allergy/Cold (acetaminophen, diphenhydramine, and phenylephrine tablets). ...
- Do not take more than what your doctor told you to take. ...
- Do not take Benadryl Allergy/Cold (acetaminophen, diphenhydramine, and phenylephrine tablets) for longer than you were told by your doctor.
Does Benadryl work on cold symptoms?
Oral, over-the-counter Benadryl products are approved to treat some symptoms of the common cold. These symptoms include sneezing and runny nose, but they don’t include cough. Although some people take Benadryl to treat cough, an analysis of clinical studies shows that antihistamines such as Benadryl don’t improve symptoms of cough.
What are the long-term effects of using diphenhydramine?
Common long-term side effects of prolonged diphenhydramine use include: Dependence. For some, diphenhydramine can cause addictive effects when engaging in long-term use of the substance. ... Circulation. Those who use diphenhydramine for extended periods can experience low blood pressure, which can result in heart palpitations. ... Mental challenges. ... Physical problems. ...
Does Benadryl help anything for a cold?
“Sedating antihistamines such as diphenhydramine [Benadryl] may have a small effect on some cold symptoms in adults,” said Horton. “However, there is little evidence that antihistamines actually help children with colds feel better or recover faster.
Do antihistamines help cure a cold virus?
Antihistamines for Colds Many healthcare providers have seen that antihistamines are inconsistent as cold treatments. Research has long been mixed, too. It's possible some symptoms aren't related to histamine. So the drugs have no effect.
Why are antihistamines in cold remedies?
How Do Antihistamines Work? Some types of them can help relieve your runny nose and sneezing when you have a cold. They block a chemical your body makes called histamine that makes the tissues in your nose itch and swell.
Which antihistamine is best for colds?
To help relieve a runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, and sneezing associated with the common cold, antihistamines may be considered. First-generation antihistamines including brompheniramine, chlorpheniramine, and clemastine, are preferred over the second-generation antihistamines in the management of these symptoms.
Can Benadryl help with Covid?
A pair of over-the-counter compounds has been found in preliminary tests to inhibit the virus that causes COVID-19, University of Florida Health researchers have found. The combination includes diphenhydramine, an antihistamine used for allergy symptoms.
Is Benadryl good for upper respiratory infection?
To dry out the nose and relieve nasal obstruction, try a traditional antihistamine (diphenhydramine [Benadryl®], others). All antihistamines are best used for allergy, but they can be helpful for suppressing some viral URI symptoms.
Is Benadryl a decongestant?
Benadryl and Sudafed belong to different drug classes. Benadryl is an antihistamine and Sudafed is a decongestant. Benadryl and Sudafed are available in generic form and over-the-counter (OTC).
Does Benadryl dry up mucus?
Benadryl® can dry out secretions and mucous membranes. This can create problems not only in the eyes, nose and throat but throughout the rest of the body as well. Improvement in a runny nose during a cold is not due to the anti-histamine properties of the medication.
Does Benadryl help with runny nose?
Benadryl is used to treat sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, hives, skin rash, itching, and other cold or allergy symptoms. Benadryl is also used to treat motion sickness, to induce sleep, and to treat certain symptoms of Parkinson's disease.
Will Benadryl help a cough?
Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine used to relieve symptoms of allergy, hay fever, and the common cold. These symptoms include rash, itching, watery eyes, itchy eyes/nose/throat, cough, runny nose, and sneezing. It is also used to prevent and treat nausea, vomiting and dizziness caused by motion sickness.
Can I take antihistamine if I have Covid?
You may take an expectorant/cough suppressant combination as needed for cough and congestion. Take an antihistamine/decongestant combination for your allergy symptoms and congestion. If you have uncontrolled blood pressure, then you should avoid the decongestant component.
Do antihistamines help Covid symptoms?
And, while people can agree that this is a thing, a proper treatment for the condition has been tough to come by. Now, a new case report has suggested that there may be an easily accessible solution for some symptoms caused by long COVID: antihistamines.
What is Benadryl used for?
Topical Benadryl can be used to soothe itchy and irritated skin in adults and children over age 2. When applied to skin, the medication reduces itch and temporarily eases pain, such as from insect bites, rashes, poison ivy, or sunburns.
How long does Benadryl take to work?
Benadryl can be taken with or without food. The drug usually starts to work within an hour. Store tablets and liquid solution at room temperature that's ideally 68 to 77 degrees F. Store capsules at 59 to 77 degrees F. Keeping it away from heat and direct light.
What age can you take Benadryl?
Oral forms of Benadryl are approved for treating mild allergy symptoms, hay fever, or symptoms caused by the common cold in adults and children ages 6 and older. Oral forms of the medication can help improve: Topical Benadryl can be used to soothe itchy and irritated skin in adults and children over age 2.
How does a nasal allergy medication work?
The medication works by blocking the effects of histamine, a substance released by the body as part of the immune response. Histamines plays a major role in mediating nasal allergy symptoms, such as excess mucus formation, swelling, and itching. 1 .
Can Benadryl cause bronchitis?
As an anticholinergic drug, Benadryl may worsen certain conditions or lead to serious complications. Talk with your doctor before taking Benadryl if you have any of the following conditions that can make taking Benadryl risky or prohibit its use: Emphysema, chronic bronchitis, or other breathing problems.
Can Benadryl be used as an antihistamine?
Despite these options being preferred because of their side effect and risk profile, your doctor may still recommend Benadryl as an alternative antihistamine option if: There is no cure for the common cold, and Benadryl will not shorten the length of a cold, but it can be taken for nasal and eye symptoms.
Is Benadryl safe for insomnia?
Benadryl is sometimes used as an off-label treatment for insomnia since drowsiness is a common side effect. (OTC sleep aids such as Unisom and Nytol contain diphenhydramine for this reason.) It's also used off-label for oral mucositis, a type of swelling of the mouth. 2 .
What is Benadryl?
Benadryl has active ingredients of diphenhydramine hydrochloride. It is often used in allergies. eHealthMe is studying from 80,563 Benadryl users for its effectiveness, alternative drugs and more.
How to use the study?
You can discuss the study with your doctor, to ensure that all drug risks and benefits are fully discussed and understood.
How the study uses the data?
The study is based on diphenhydramine hydrochloride (the active ingredients of Benadryl) and Benadryl (the brand name). Other drugs that have the same active ingredients (e.g. generic drugs) are not considered. Dosage of drugs is not considered in the study neither.
Who is eHealthMe?
With medical big data and proven AI algorithms, eHealthMe provides a platform for everyone to run phase IV clinical trials. We study millions of patients and 5,000 more each day. Results of our real-world drug study have been referenced on 600+ peer-reviewed medical publications, including The Lancet, Mayo Clinic Proceedings, and Nature.
WARNING, DISCLAIMER, USE FOR PUBLICATION
WARNING: Please DO NOT STOP MEDICATIONS without first consulting a physician since doing so could be hazardous to your health.
Can you give a child Benadryl?
Talk with the doctor before giving Benadryl Allergy/Cold (acetamino phen, diphenhydramine, and phenylephrine tablets) to a child. If you are 65 or older, use Benadryl Allergy/Cold (acetamino phen, diphenhydramine, and phenylephrine tablets) with care. You could have more side effects.
Can you drink alcohol while taking Benadryl?
Avoid drinking alcohol while taking Benadryl Allergy/Cold (acetaminophen, diphenhydramine, and phenylephrine tablets). Talk with your doctor before you use other drugs and natural products that slow your actions. Do not use with other products that have diphenhydramine. Avoid taking other products that have acetaminophen in them.
Can you take Benadryl and diphenhydramine at the same time?
If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your normal time. Do not take 2 doses at the same time or extra doses.
Can you take Benadryl with acetaminophen?
You must check to make sure that it is safe for you to take Benadryl Allergy/Cold (acetaminophen, diphenhydramine, and phenylephrine tablets) with all of your drugs and health problems. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any drug without checking with your doctor.
Can Benadryl cause high blood pressure?
Very high blood pressure may happen. This is not a list of all drugs or health problems that interact with Benadryl Allergy/Cold (acetaminophen, diphenhydramine, and phenylephrine tablets). Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all of your drugs (prescription or OTC, natural products, vitamins) and health problems.
Can you take Benadryl 2 times?
Do not take 2 doses at the same time or extra doses. Many times Benadryl Allergy/Cold (acetaminophen, diphenhydramine, and phenylephrine tablets) is taken on an as needed basis. Do not take more often than told by the doctor.
How long does it take for a fever to go away?
Tell your doctor if your condition persists for more than 1 week, if it worsens, or if it occurs with rash, persistent headache, or fever lasting more than 3 days. These may be symptoms of a serious medical problem and should be checked by a doctor.
Can you take Benadryl cold flu?
Benadryl Cold/Flu Tablet. One ingredient in this product is acetaminophen. Taking too much acetaminophen may cause serious (possibly fatal) liver disease. Adults should not take more than 4000 milligrams (4 grams) of acetaminophen a day. People with liver problems and children should take less acetaminophen.
Can antihistamines cause drowsiness?
In young children, antihistamines may cause agitation/excitement instead of drowsiness. Older adults may be more sensitive to the effects of this drug, especially dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, constipation, trouble urinating, fast/irregular heartbeat, or trouble sleeping.
Can you take long acting meds for kids?
Some products (such as long-acting tablets/capsules) are not recommended for use in children younger than 12 years. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details about using your product safely.These products do not cure or shorten the length of the common cold and may cause serious side effects.
Can you use diphenhydramine cream on skin?
Do not use with any other antihistamines applied to the skin (such as diphenhydramine cream, ointment, spray) because increased side effects may occur. This medication may interfere with certain lab tests (such as urine drug screening tests, urine 5-HIAA), possibly causing false test results.
How old should a child be to take cold medicine?
Your child’s weight, development, age, and symptom severity help to determine the medication and dosage. If your child is younger than 6 months , stick to acetaminophen for pain relief.
What happens if you double up on cold medicine?
If you double up, you can get too much of the drug in your system. This can lead to more side effects, up your chance for overdose, or other serious health problems. Always read labels carefully for expiration dates and side effects. This article will help you choose a cold medicine based on your symptoms. Symptom.
How to treat sinus headaches?
To treat a sinus headache, decide if you’d like to treat the pain from your sinus blockage or the actual blockage itself. Ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve) can reduce your pain. A decongestant like pseudoephedrine can thin out your congestion, but it might take a few doses before your sinus pressure goes away.
How to get rid of a stuffy nose?
To loosen up a stuffy nose, take a decongestant with the active ingredient pseudoephedrine. It thins out the mucus that your body produces, allowing it to escape your inflamed nasal passages so you can breathe easy again. Phenylephrine is another decongestant available for stuffy nose.
What to do if you cough so much?
If your coughing is making your throat sore, look for a medication that contains dextromethorphan. Dextromethorphan helps control your brain’s signal to your body that you need to cough. This can decrease your coughing symptoms enough to promote healing of a sore throat, but it doesn’t treat the cause of your coughing.
What is the best medicine for a fever?
Treating the inflammation can bring down your pain levels and soothe discomfort. Fever and aches are best treated by ibuprofen. Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), as is naproxen. Acetaminophen is another pain reliever that can treat fever and aches.
How long does it take for a cold to go away?
Remember to always read dosing guidelines, and don’t double up on medications that contain the same active ingredient. A cold can take 7 to 10 days to resolve. If you’re still feeling sick after that, or if your symptoms start to worsen, see a doctor. Last medically reviewed on January 8, 2019.
Why do antihistamines make my nose runny?
It's possible that some symptoms—such as a runny nose—are caused by responses in the body that aren't related to histamine production, so antihistamines have no effect. It's also possible that some people just respond better to the medications than others. Here's what contemporary research says about antihistamines as cold remedies: ...
What is the name of the chemical that causes sneezing and itching?
Antihistamines are a class of medications that help relieve allergy symptoms. When you're exposed to an allergen, your body creates a chemical called histamine , which is part of a complex reaction by the immune system. Histamine is what causes typical allergy symptoms, such as sneezing, itching, and runny nose.
Can you take antihistamines with colds?
A 2019 study says that decongestants with or without antihistamines appear to be effective in adults with colds. 4 . Something studies do generally agree on, though, is that antihistamines are safe for adults.
Do antihistamines work for colds?
What doctors have learned over the years is that antihistamines seem to work for some people when they have colds, but not everyone. Research has long been mixed as to the effectiveness, as well.
Can antihistamines be over the counter?
Many types of antihistamines are available over the counter (OTC). Several of the first-generation antihistamines cause drowsiness, but newer products are less likely to make you sleepy and have fewer side effects.
Can you take multi symptom cold medicine?
Just be aware that they may or may not help and could cause side effects. If you're already taking a multi-symptom cold medicine, make sure to read the ingredients list. It may already include an antihistamine, and doubling-up can be dangerous.
Do antihistamines help with allergies?
Antihistamines help relieve allergy symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, and watery eyes. Considering that the common cold can cause you experience the same issues, it's natural to think antihistamines can help when you're sick too. It's true that these two conditions have a lot of in common when it comes to how they make you feel.
What are some ways to get rid of a cold?
The list of ineffective cold remedies is long. Some of the more common ones that don't work include: 1 Antibiotics. These attack bacteria, but they're no help against cold viruses. Avoid asking your doctor for antibiotics for a cold or using old antibiotics you have on hand. You won't get well any faster, and inappropriate use of antibiotics contributes to the serious and growing problem of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. 2 Over-the-counter cold and cough medications in young children. OTC cold and cough medications may cause serious and even life-threatening side effects in children. Talk with your child's doctor before giving any medications.
How to make yourself miserable with colds?
It's tempting to try the latest remedy, but the best thing you can do is take care of yourself. Rest, drink fluids and keep the air around you moist. Remember to wash your hands frequently.
How to heal a sore throat from a swollen throat?
Rest. Your body needs rest to heal. Soothe a sore throat. A saltwater gargle — 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon salt dissolved in an 8-ounce glass of warm water — can temporarily relieve a sore or scratchy throat.
How long do you stay sick after catching a cold?
If you catch a cold, you can expect to be sick for one to two weeks. That doesn't mean you have to be miserable. These remedies might help you feel better:
How to get rid of coughing in older adults?
Honey may help coughs in adults and children who are older than age 1. Try it in hot tea. Add moisture to the air. A cool-mist vaporizer or humidifier can add moisture to your home, which might help loosen congestion. Change the water daily, and clean the unit according to the manufacturer's instructions.
How to help a coughing child?
Sip warm liquids. A cold remedy used in many cultures, taking in warm liquids, such as chicken soup, tea or warm apple juice, might be soothing and might ease congestion by increasing mucus flow. Try honey. Honey may help coughs in adults and children who are older than age 1. Try it in hot tea.
Can you take aspirin with chickenpox?
Though aspirin is approved for use in children older than age 3, children and teenagers recovering from chickenpox or flu-like symptoms should never take aspirin. This is because aspirin has been linked to Reye's syndrome, a rare but potentially life-threatening condition, in such children. Sip warm liquids.
Uses
Before Taking
- If you have seasonal or year-round allergy symptoms, your healthcare provider may do a blood or skin test to confirm and identify your allergies. Common allergens include pollen, mold, dust mites, pets (dogs, cats), and pests (cockroaches, mice) If it's possible for you to avoid your allergens through environmental interventions, such as mold remediation or pest control, you m…
Other Treatment Options
- In addition to diphenhydramine, other OTC first-generation antihistamines used for allergies and cold symptoms include: 1. Ala-Hist IR (dexbrompheniramine) 2. Chlor-Trimeton, Aller-Chlor (chlorpheniramine) 3. Tavist, Dayhist Allergy (clemastine) Vistaril (hydroxyzine) is a prescription first-generation antihistamine that is prescribed for itchy skin due to chronic hives or skin reacti…
Dosage
- Benadryl is short-acting and taken every four to six hours with no more than six doses taken within 24 hours. It comes in 25 milligram (mg) tablets, 25 mg liquid-filled gel capsules, 12.5 mg chewable tablets, and 12.5 mg doses taken as a liquid solution, which is 12.5 mg per teaspoon/5 milliliters (mL). The standard dosages of oral Benadryl are as follows:5 Do not give oral Ben…
Warnings and Interactions
- Benadryl can impair your ability to function and should never be used if you are planning to drive. Many state laws will charge you with a DUI (driving under the influence) if you are deemed to have been impaired by Benadryl. You should never drink alcohol when taking Benadryl, as this can worsen side effects like drowsiness and decreased alertness, and become dangerous or life-thr…