Benadryl and its uses

The common medicine used for common flu is Benadryl. Benadryl is just the brand name, it is nothing but diphenhydramine. This is an antihistamine that relieves allergy, common cold and fever too. Also it helps in relieving from symptoms like itching, rashes, irritating nose, eyes, cough, watery eyes, sneezing, and running nose. Sometimes it also prevents vomiting, nausea feeling that are induced by motion sickness. One can feel relaxed and can sleep well by the consumption of this diphenhydramine.

How does Benadryl work?

This medicine simply works by stopping the production of a natural component called histamine. This histamine is produced during any allegoric reaction. Benadryl’s drying effect on the body on the symptoms like watery eyes, running nose, sneezing etc. are affected by blocking the secretion of another natural component called acetylcholine that is produced by the body. Effectively the medicine works within 12 hours.

How to use Benadryl?

Take this medication as per the directions mentioned on the medicine box, or take it as per the doctor’s advice. Benadryl is to be taken after the food consumption and best to be taken with a full glass of water. This medicine is available in the form of syrup and as tablets. The syrup must be measured correctly in the cup provided and take accordingly as per prescription. In case of tablets up to 300mg can be taken within 24 hours. The medicine is taken 30 minutes before in the case of motion sickness problems. Also to get sleep it must be take at least half an hour before your bedtime. When missed your dose, take the Benadryl as soon as you remember. This does not mean that you need take double dosage. Overdose of the medicine can lead to other problems like confusions, too much sleep, dry mouth, fever, insomnia, hallucinations, and blurred visions. This medicine can be stored in room temperature and must be kept away from moisture and heat.

How long do the effects of Benadryl last in the human body?

Since the medicine causes sleepiness, many patients feel too much drowsiness even after 12 hours of the medicine consumption. Also the dries of eyes and noses are affected in 12 hours. So many people have doubts as how long the medicine’s affects the body. Basically the medicine lasts only for 4 – 6 hours per dosage. The sleepy effect is produced up to 3 hours only. With a good amount of sleep, say for around 7- 8 hours the medicine effects goes away. Many can still have hangover effects. In this case you need to consult your doctor.