DIPHENHYDRAMINE: 25,827 Adverse Event Reports & Safety Profile
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Active Ingredient: DIPHENHYDRAMINE HYDROCHLORIDE · Drug Class: Histamine H1 Receptor Antagonists [MoA] · Route: ORAL · Manufacturer: Whole Foods Market, INC. · FDA Application: 005845 · HUMAN OTC DRUG · FDA Label: Available
First Report: 19470129 · Latest Report: 20250915
What Are the Most Common DIPHENHYDRAMINE Side Effects?
All DIPHENHYDRAMINE Side Effects by Frequency
| Side Effect | Reports | % of Total | Deaths | Hosp. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toxicity to various agents | 4,596 | 17.8% | 3,875 | 1,338 |
| Drug ineffective | 3,511 | 13.6% | 380 | 1,157 |
| Completed suicide | 3,081 | 11.9% | 3,073 | 1,053 |
| Off label use | 2,639 | 10.2% | 388 | 1,029 |
| Fatigue | 2,605 | 10.1% | 542 | 917 |
| Drug abuse | 2,602 | 10.1% | 2,204 | 237 |
| Headache | 2,171 | 8.4% | 515 | 950 |
| Overdose | 2,082 | 8.1% | 709 | 722 |
| Pain | 2,080 | 8.1% | 484 | 850 |
| Nausea | 1,905 | 7.4% | 320 | 1,080 |
| Infusion related reaction | 1,827 | 7.1% | 510 | 726 |
| Drug hypersensitivity | 1,791 | 6.9% | 331 | 509 |
| Somnolence | 1,612 | 6.2% | 66 | 419 |
| Rheumatoid arthritis | 1,463 | 5.7% | 456 | 570 |
| Hypersensitivity | 1,392 | 5.4% | 474 | 390 |
| Rash | 1,364 | 5.3% | 452 | 481 |
| Pyrexia | 1,350 | 5.2% | 396 | 818 |
| Hypertension | 1,311 | 5.1% | 560 | 519 |
| Arthralgia | 1,260 | 4.9% | 406 | 689 |
| Dizziness | 1,216 | 4.7% | 344 | 484 |
Who Reports DIPHENHYDRAMINE Side Effects? Age & Gender Data
Gender: 72.2% female, 27.8% male. Average age: 44.7 years. Most reports from: US. View detailed demographics →
Is DIPHENHYDRAMINE Getting Safer? Reports by Year
| Year | Reports | Deaths | Hosp. |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2000 | 5 | 1 | 2 |
| 2001 | 15 | 3 | 2 |
| 2002 | 10 | 3 | 2 |
| 2003 | 8 | 3 | 3 |
| 2004 | 11 | 3 | 1 |
| 2005 | 15 | 3 | 5 |
| 2006 | 10 | 5 | 3 |
| 2007 | 17 | 7 | 6 |
| 2008 | 27 | 13 | 12 |
| 2009 | 27 | 5 | 15 |
| 2010 | 29 | 9 | 9 |
| 2011 | 37 | 14 | 12 |
| 2012 | 395 | 312 | 27 |
| 2013 | 396 | 291 | 47 |
| 2014 | 378 | 66 | 99 |
| 2015 | 446 | 130 | 110 |
| 2016 | 461 | 147 | 117 |
| 2017 | 599 | 252 | 123 |
| 2018 | 574 | 266 | 144 |
| 2019 | 478 | 175 | 157 |
| 2020 | 487 | 247 | 137 |
| 2021 | 434 | 143 | 119 |
| 2022 | 718 | 131 | 122 |
| 2023 | 452 | 154 | 126 |
| 2024 | 204 | 5 | 66 |
| 2025 | 116 | 3 | 18 |
What Is DIPHENHYDRAMINE Used For?
| Indication | Reports |
|---|---|
| Product used for unknown indication | 13,966 |
| Premedication | 2,227 |
| Suicide attempt | 618 |
| Pruritus | 515 |
| Hypersensitivity | 418 |
| Insomnia | 312 |
| Urticaria | 221 |
| Rash | 192 |
| Angioedema | 181 |
| Prophylaxis | 160 |
DIPHENHYDRAMINE vs Alternatives: Which Is Safer?
Other Drugs in Same Class: Histamine H1 Receptor Antagonists [MoA]
Official FDA Label for DIPHENHYDRAMINE
Official prescribing information from the FDA-approved drug label.
Drug Description
DESCRIPTION Diphenhydramine hydrochloride, USP is an antihistamine drug having the chemical name 2- (Diphenylmethoxy)-N, N-dimethylethylamine hydrochloride. It occurs as a white, odourless, crystalline powder, is freely soluble in water and alcohol and has a molecular weight of 291.8. The molecular formula is C 17 H 21 NO
- HCl. The structural formula is as follows: Diphenhydramine hydrochloride, USP in the parenteral form is a sterile, pyrogen-free solution available in a concentration of 50 mg of diphenhydramine hydrochloride, USP per mL. The solutions for parenteral use have been adjusted to a pH between 5.0 and 6.0 with either sodium hydroxide or hydrochloric acid and contains 0.1 mg/mL benzethonium chloride as a germicidal agent. diphenhydramine-str.jpg
FDA Approved Uses (Indications)
INDICATIONS AND USAGE: Diphenhydramine hydrochloride in the injectable form is effective in adults and pediatric patients, other than premature infants and neonates, for the following conditions when diphenhydramine hydrochloride in the oral form is impractical.
Antihistaminic
For amelioration of allergic reactions to blood or plasma, in anaphylaxis as an adjunct to epinephrine and other standard measures after the acute symptoms have been controlled, and for other uncomplicated allergic conditions of the immediate type when oral therapy is impossible or contraindicated.
Motion Sickness
For active treatment of motion sickness.
Antiparkinsonism
For use in parkinsonism, when oral therapy is impossible or contraindicated, as follows: parkinsonism in the elderly who are unable to tolerate more potent agents; mild cases of parkinsonism in other age groups, and in other cases of parkinsonism in combination with centrally acting anticholinergic agents.
Antihistaminic
For amelioration of allergic reactions to blood or plasma, in anaphylaxis as an adjunct to epinephrine and other standard measures after the acute symptoms have been controlled, and for other uncomplicated allergic conditions of the immediate type when oral therapy is impossible or contraindicated.
Motion Sickness
For active treatment of motion sickness.
Antiparkinsonism
For use in parkinsonism, when oral therapy is impossible or contraindicated, as follows: parkinsonism in the elderly who are unable to tolerate more potent agents; mild cases of parkinsonism in other age groups, and in other cases of parkinsonism in combination with centrally acting anticholinergic agents.
Dosage & Administration
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION DOSAGE SHOULD BE INDIVIDUALIZED ACCORDING TO THE NEEDS AND THE RESPONSE OF THE PATIENT. A single oral dose of diphenhydramine hydrochloride is quickly absorbed with maximum activity occurring in approximately one hour. The duration of activity following an average dose of diphenhydramine hydrochloride is from four to six hours.
Adults
25 to 50 mg three to four times daily. The nightime sleep aid dosage is 50 mg at bedtime.
Pediatric
Patients, other than premature infants and neonates 12.5 to 25 mg three or four times daily. Maximum daily dosage not to exceed 300 mg. For physicians who wish to calculate the dose on the basis of body weight or surface area, the recommended dosage is 5 mg/kg/24 hours or 150 mg/m2/24 hours. Data are not available on the use of diphenhydramine hydrochloride as a nighttime sleep-aid in children under 12 years. The basis for determining the most effective dosage regimen will be the response of the patient to medication and the condition under treatment. In motion sickness, full dosage is recommended for prophylactic use, the first dose to be given 30 minutes before exposure to motion and similar doses before meals and upon retiring for the duration of exposure
Contraindications
CONTRAINDICATIONS: Use in Neonates or Premature Infants This drug should not be used in neonates or premature infants. Use in Nursing Mothers Because of the higher risk of antihistamines for infants generally, and for neonates and prematures in particular, antihistamine therapy is contraindicated in nursing mothers. Use as a Local Anesthetic Because of the risk of local necrosis, this drug should not be used as a local anesthetic. Antihistamines are also contraindicated in the following conditions: Hypersensitivity to diphenhydramine hydrochloride and other antihistamines of similar chemical structure.
Use in Neonates or Premature Infants This drug should not be used in neonates or premature infants.
Use in Nursing Mothers Because of the higher risk of antihistamines for infants generally, and for neonates and prematures in particular, antihistamine therapy is contraindicated in nursing mothers.
Use as a Local Anesthetic Because of the risk of local necrosis, this drug should not be used as a local anesthetic. Antihistamines are also contraindicated in the following conditions: Hypersensitivity to diphenhydramine hydrochloride and other antihistamines of similar chemical structure.
Known Adverse Reactions
ADVERSE REACTIONS: To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Fresenius Kabi USA, LLC at 1-800-551-7176 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. The most frequent adverse reactions are underscored. 1. General: Urticaria, drug rash, anaphylactic shock, photosensitivity, excessive perspiration, chills, dryness of mouth, nose and throat. 2.
Cardiovascular
System: Hypotension, headache, palpitations, tachycardia, extrasystoles. 3.
Hematologic
System: Hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, agranulocytosis. 4.
Nervous
System: Sedation , sleepiness , dizziness , disturbed coordination , fatigue, confusion, restlessness, excitation, nervousness, tremor, irritability, insomnia, euphoria, paresthesia, blurred vision, diplopia, vertigo, tinnitus, acute labyrinthitis, neuritis, convulsions. 5. GI System: Epigastric distress , anorexia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation. 6. GU System: Urinary frequency, difficult urination, urinary retention, early menses. 7.
Respiratory
System: Thickening of bronchial secretions , tightness of chest or throat and wheezing, nasal stuffiness.
Warnings
Warnings Allergy alert Allergy alert: Ibuprofen may cause a severe allergic reaction, especially in people allergic to aspirin. Symptoms may include: hives facial swelling asthma (wheezing) shock skin reddening rash blisters If an allergic reaction occurs, stop use and seek medical help right away. Stomach bleeding warning: Stomach bleeding warning: This product contains an NSAID, which may cause severe stomach bleeding. The chance is higher if you are age 60 or older have had stomach ulcers or bleeding problems take a blood thinning (anticoagulant) or steroid drug take other drugs containing prescription or nonprescription NSAIDs [aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, or others] have 3 or more alcoholic drinks every day while using this product take more or for a longer time than directed Heart attack and stroke warning: NSAIDs, except aspirin, increase the risk of heart attack, heart failure, and stroke. These can be fatal. The risk is higher if you use more than directed or for longer than directed. Do not use Do not use if you have ever had an allergic reaction to any other pain reliever/fever reducer unless you have time for a full night's sleep in children under 12 years of age right before or after heart surgery with any other product containing diphenhydramine, even one used on skin if you have sleeplessness without pain Ask a doctor before use if Ask a doctor before use if stomach bleeding warning applies to you you have problems or serious side effects from taking pain relievers or fever reducers you have a history of stomach problems, such as heartburn you have high blood pressure, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, kidney disease, asthma, or had a stroke you are taking a diuretic you have a breathing problem such as emphysema or chronic bronchitis you have glaucoma you have trouble urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland Ask a doctor or pharmacist before use if you are Ask a doctor or pharmacist before use if you are taking sedatives or tranquilizers, or any other sleep-aid under a doctor's care for any continuing medical illness taking any other antihistamines taking aspirin for heart attack or stroke, because ibuprofen may decrease this benefit of aspirin taking any other drug When using this product drowsiness will occur avoid alcoholic drinks do not drive a motor vehicle or operate machinery take with food or milk if stomach upset occurs Stop use and ask a doctor if Stop use and ask a doctor if you experience any of the following signs of stomach bleeding: feel faint vomit blood have bloody or black stools have stomach pain that does not get better you have symptoms of heart problems or stroke: chest pain trouble breathing weakness in one part or side of body slurred speech leg swelling pain gets worse or lasts more than 10 days sleeplessness persists continuously for more than 2 weeks. Insomnia may be a symptom of a serious underlying medical illness. redness or swelling is present in the painful area any new symptoms appear If pregnant or breast-feeding, If pregnant or breast-feeding, ask a health professional before use. It is especially important not to use ibuprofen at 20 weeks or later in pregnancy unless definitely directed to do so by a doctor because it may cause problems in the unborn child or complications during delivery. Keep out of reach of children. Keep out of reach of children. In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away.
Precautions
PRECAUTIONS: General Diphenhydramine hydrochloride has an atropine-like action and, therefore, should be used with caution in patients with a history of bronchial asthma, increased intraocular pressure, hyperthyroidism, cardiovascular disease or hypertension. Use with caution in patients with lower respiratory disease including asthma. Information for Patients Patients taking diphenhydramine hydrochloride should be advised that this drug may cause drowsiness and has an additive effect with alcohol. Patients should be warned about engaging in activities requiring mental alertness such as driving a car or operating appliances, machinery, etc.
Drug Interactions
Diphenhydramine hydrochloride has additive effects with alcohol and other CNS depressants (hypnotics, sedatives, tranquilizers, etc.). MAO inhibitors prolong and intensify the anticholinergic (drying) effects of antihistamines. Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility Long-term studies in animals to determine mutagenic and carcinogenic potential have not been performed.
Pregnancy Pregnancy
Category B. Reproduction studies have been performed in rats and rabbits at doses up to 5 times the human dose and have revealed no evidence of impaired fertility or harm to the fetus due to diphenhydramine hydrochloride. There are, however, no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, this drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.
Pediatric Use
Diphenhydramine hydrochloride should not be used in neonates and premature infants (see CONTRAINDICATIONS ). Diphenhydramine hydrochloride may diminish mental alertness, or, in the young pediatric patient, cause excitation. Overdosage may cause hallucinations, convulsions, or death (see WARNINGS and OVERDOSAGE ). See also DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION section.
General
Diphenhydramine hydrochloride has an atropine-like action and, therefore, should be used with caution in patients with a history of bronchial asthma, increased intraocular pressure, hyperthyroidism, cardiovascular disease or hypertension. Use with caution in patients with lower respiratory disease including asthma.
Information for Patients Patients taking diphenhydramine hydrochloride should be advised that this drug may cause drowsiness and has an additive effect with alcohol. Patients should be warned about engaging in activities requiring mental alertness such as driving a car or operating appliances, machinery, etc.
Drug Interactions
Diphenhydramine hydrochloride has additive effects with alcohol and other CNS depressants (hypnotics, sedatives, tranquilizers, etc.). MAO inhibitors prolong and intensify the anticholinergic (drying) effects of antihistamines.
Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility Long-term studies in animals to determine mutagenic and carcinogenic potential have not been performed.
Pregnancy Pregnancy
Category B. Reproduction studies have been performed in rats and rabbits at doses up to 5 times the human dose and have revealed no evidence of impaired fertility or harm to the fetus due to diphenhydramine hydrochloride. There are, however, no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, this drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.
Pediatric Use
Diphenhydramine hydrochloride should not be used in neonates and premature infants (see CONTRAINDICATIONS ). Diphenhydramine hydrochloride may diminish mental alertness, or, in the young pediatric patient, cause excitation. Overdosage may cause hallucinations, convulsions, or death (see WARNINGS and OVERDOSAGE ). See also DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION section.
Drug Interactions
Drug Interactions Diphenhydramine hydrochloride has additive effects with alcohol and other CNS depressants (hypnotics, sedatives, tranquilizers, etc.). MAO inhibitors prolong and intensify the anticholinergic (drying) effects of antihistamines.
Active Ingredient
Active ingredients.............................................................................Purposes Diphenhydramine HCl 1%...................................................... Topical analgesic Zinc acetate 0.1%...................................................................... Skin protectant
Inactive Ingredients
Inactive ingredients carnauba wax, colloidal silicon dioxide, corn starch, croscarmellose sodium, FD&C blue # 2, glyceryl dibehenate, hypromellose, lactose monohydrate, microcrystalline cellulose, palmitic acid, polydextrose, polyethylene glycol, pregelatinized starch (maize), sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium starch glycolate, stearic acid, and titanium dioxide. Questions or comments? Call 1-855-274-4122 (Monday – Friday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM EST) Distributed by: AUROHEALTH LLC 279 Princeton-Hightstown Road, East Windsor NJ 08520 Made in India Code No.: TS/DRUGS/16/2014