.
Combination drugs: Excedrin® PM, Tylenol® Allergy Sinus, Tylenol® Flu NightTime Maximum Strength Powder, Tylenol® PM
Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine used to relieve allergic rhinitis (seasonal allergy) symptoms including sneezing, runny nose, itching, and watery eyes and to relieve itching and swelling associated with uncomplicated allergic skin reactions. It is also used as a short-term sleep aid, to control coughs due to colds or allergy, and to prevent/treat motion sickness. Diphenhydramine is available in nonprescription products alone and in combination with other nonprescription drugs, to treat symptoms of allergy, colds, and upper respiratory infections.
Interactions with Herbs
Henbane (Hyoscyamus niger)
Antihistamines, including diphenhydramine, can cause “anticholinergic” side
effects such as dryness of mouth and heart palpitations. Henbane also has anticholinergic
activity and side effects. Therefore, use with diphenhydramine could increase the risk of
anticholinergic side effects,1 though apparently no interactions have yet been
reported with diphenhydramine and henbane. Henbane should not be taken except by prescription
from a physician trained in its use, as it is extremely toxic.
Interactions with Foods and Other Compounds
Alcohol
Diphenhydramine causes drowsiness.2 Alcohol may intensify this effect and increase
the risk of accidental injury.3 To prevent problems, people taking diphenhydramine
or diphenhydramine-containing products should avoid alcohol.
Summary of Interactions for Diphenhydramine
| Depletion or interference | None known |
|---|---|
| Adverse interaction | Henbane* |
| Side effect reduction/prevention | None known |
| Supportive interaction | None known |
| Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability | None known |
For the convenience of the reader, the information in the summary is categorized as follows: “Depletion or interference” indicates the drug may deplete or interfere with the absorption or function of the supplement or herb. “Adverse interaction” indicates that the supplement or herb used together with the drug may result in undesirable effects. “Side effect reduction/prevention” indicates the supplement or herb may reduce the likelihood and/or severity of a potential side effect caused by the drug. “Supportive interaction” indicates the supplement or herb may support or aid the function of the drug. “Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability” indicates that the supplement or herb may decrease the absorption and/or activity of the drug in the body. An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
References:
1. Blumenthal M, ed. The Complete German Commission E Monographs. Austin, TX: American Botanical Council, 1998, 146.
2. Threlkeld DS, ed. Respiratory Drugs, Antihistamines. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, May 1998, 191a–1b.
3. Threlkeld DS, ed. Respiratory Drugs, Antihistamines. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, May 1998, 191a–1b.
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