Benadryl, whose active ingredient is diphenhydramine, is an antihistamine regularly used to treat allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose and itching.
Diphenhydramine works by blocking the effects of histamine in the brain, which reduces these symptoms. It also enters the brain in large amounts, causing drowsiness.
see more
Secret of youth? Researchers reveal how to reverse…
The "powers" of porridge: check out the benefits of oats in…
In addition, this substance blocks the effects of another chemical called acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that excites nerve cells in the brain.
See too: NEVER cut a medicine in half to ingest it; see the reason
Using Benadryl as a Sleep Aid
Due to its sedative property, some people use Benadryl as a sleep aid.
However, many experts caution against using antihistamines to induce sleep, especially on a daily basis.
According to Dr. James Walker, the drug can cause “significant sedation and drowsiness, which may persist into the next day,” thus interfering with everyday activities.
Precautions during use
It is of paramount importance to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery while using the medicine, due to the risk of drowsiness, which can impair hand-eye coordination and reaction time, increasing the possibility of accidents serious.
Risks of long-term use of Benadryl
A potential side effect of daily Benadryl use is the possibility of it leading to cognitive decline.
According to a 2015 study published in JAMA Internal Medicine, people who took Benadryl or a similar anticholinergic drug for three years or more had a 54% higher risk of dementia, compared to those who took the drug for three months or less.
Therefore, although it can be useful in relieving allergy symptoms and occasionally as a sleep aid, its regular and prolonged use can carry significant health and health risks. well-being.
It is always crucial to consult a healthcare professional before starting or changing any medication regimen.
