Diphenhydramine: Blocking Rem Sleep Or A Dream Come True?

Diphenhydramine is a common antihistamine that is known to cause drowsiness. It is often used as a sleep aid, either on its own or mixed with other medicines. While it can help people fall asleep, it does not necessarily lead to better quality sleep. In fact, it may lead to greater likelihood of next-day sedation and other side effects such as dry mouth, dizziness, poor focus and forgetfulness. Furthermore, long-term use of antihistamines may lead to harmful side effects, especially in older adults. As such, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends cognitive behavioural therapy as a first-line treatment for insomnia.

Diphenhydramine is a sedating antihistamine that can be used to treat short-term sleep problems

Diphenhydramine is typically taken 20 minutes before bed and starts to work within 20 to 30 minutes. It is recommended to only take diphenhydramine for a short time, as continuous use can lead to dependence and decreased effectiveness. It is also important to note that diphenhydramine can cause side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and dry mouth. It is not recommended for children under the age of 16 for sleep problems.

While diphenhydramine can help with falling asleep, it may not improve sleep quality. Additionally, it can block acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in REM sleep, leading to greater likelihood of next-day sedation. There is also a lack of data on the safety and efficacy of using diphenhydramine for sleep, and long-term use may be associated with an increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease.

Instead of relying on diphenhydramine for sleep, it is recommended to practice good sleep hygiene, such as maintaining a regular sleep schedule, avoiding caffeine and electronic devices before bed, and creating a cool and quiet sleep environment. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is also an effective treatment option for insomnia.

Diphenhydramine is available over-the-counter and by prescription

Diphenhydramine is available over-the-counter in various forms, including tablets, capsules, liquid-filled capsules, dissolving strips, powder, and liquid. It is also available as a topical cream for treating insect bites and stings. When used for allergies, diphenhydramine is typically taken every 4 to 6 hours. For motion sickness, it is taken 30 minutes before departure and before meals and bedtime, if needed. As a sleep aid, it is taken 20 to 30 minutes before bedtime.

Diphenhydramine is also available by prescription and is typically used for short-term sleep problems (insomnia) and to treat symptoms of allergies and colds. It comes in the form of 25mg and 50mg tablets, with the usual dose for insomnia being 50mg taken 20 to 30 minutes before bedtime. It is important to follow the instructions provided by a doctor or pharmacist when taking diphenhydramine and to be cautious of potential side effects, such as drowsiness, dizziness, and dry mouth.

Diphenhydramine is not recommended for long-term use due to potential side effects

Diphenhydramine is a sedating antihistamine that is used for short-term sleep problems, including when a cough, cold, or itching is keeping you awake at night. It is available over the counter and by prescription. It is typically taken 20 minutes before bed and starts to work within 30 minutes.

Furthermore, long-term use of diphenhydramine has been linked to an increased risk of dementia. A study found that taking an anticholinergic medication like diphenhydramine for the equivalent of three years or more was associated with a 54% higher dementia risk than taking it for three months or less. Anticholinergics block the action of acetylcholine, which is involved in learning and memory in the brain.

Therefore, it is important to exercise caution when using diphenhydramine and to consult a doctor or pharmacist if you need to take it for more than two weeks. There are also alternative treatments for insomnia, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or newer antihistamines, that do not carry the same risks.

Diphenhydramine is not recommended for children

Cough and cold products containing diphenhydramine have not been proven safe or effective for children younger than 6 years old. These products should not be used to treat cold symptoms in children below this age unless specifically directed by a doctor. Some products, such as long-acting tablets or capsules, are not recommended for children under 12 years old. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice on using these products safely.

Diphenhydramine can cause side effects such as altered mental state, urinary retention, and dry mouth. While these side effects are generally mild and well-tolerated in young patients without other medical problems, they can pose a risk, especially for the elderly. Additionally, diphenhydramine can lead to sleepwalking and other parasomnias in children. It is important to note that the use of medication to force children to sleep is generally not recommended.

It is worth noting that children may be more sensitive to the side effects of diphenhydramine, and it can often cause excitement instead of drowsiness in young children. Therefore, it is crucial to consult a doctor or pharmacist before giving diphenhydramine to children and carefully follow the instructions on the package or prescription label.

Diphenhydramine is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women

Diphenhydramine can also lead to sleepwalking and other parasomnias. It is important to note that the medication may not improve overall sleep quality and can even cause hyperactivity in children. Furthermore, people can quickly develop a tolerance to the drug.

For breastfeeding women, occasional or short-term use of diphenhydramine is generally considered safe. However, it is recommended to consult a doctor, as there are other similar antihistamines, such as loratadine and cetirizine, that are more suitable for breastfeeding mothers. It is important to be cautious as diphenhydramine passes into breast milk in small amounts and can cause sleepiness in the nursing baby.

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