Diphenhydramine for Anxiety

Diphenhydramine is the generic name for an antihistamine medication that works to relieve allergic reactions, insomnia and motion sickness. This medication is not officially indicated or approved for anxiety, but it can be recommended by a physician for this purpose because of its sedating effects.

Significance

• Using diphenhydramine for anxiety may be considered for its ease of availability, safety profile and low cost. Diphenhydramine is purchased over-the-counter and differs from many other anti-anxiety medications, in that it is not a narcotic.

Function

• Blocking the effects of histamine naturally occurring in the body is the function of diphenhydramine. This, in turn, suppresses allergic reactions such as sneezing, itchiness, rash or watery eyes. A secondary effect of diphenhydramine is sleepiness, which helps a person relax.

Identification

• Finding diphenhydramine is simple; brand name products such as Benadryl, Sominex, Unisom, Theraflu and Triaminic are medications that contain this ingredient. Most pharmacies, grocery stores and other retail chains carry diphenhydramine products.

Features

• Taking diphenhydramine may cause drowsiness, dry mouth, confusion, dizziness or difficulty urinating. This medication relieves allergy symptoms, motion sickness, insomnia and may help with symptoms of Parkinson's disease.

Prevention/Solution

• Talking with a doctor will establish whether or not this medication should be used for anxiety. Physicians may recommend diphenhydramine for anxiety, especially in children, the elderly or people with a history of addiction.

Warnings

• Experiencing increased anxiety, irritability or excitability is possible in some individuals. Monitoring reactions to this medication and talking with a physician about them is necessary when attempting to treat anxiety.