Why Does Benadryl make you Sleepy?

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Why Does Benadryl make you Sleepy?

Have you ever suffered from sleep disorders where in getting some shut eye seems to be the most difficult thing to do while the rest of the world is dreaming peacefully in their slumber? If you do, your doctor or physician is very likely prescribe you Benadryl before he gives you any heavier drugs with side effects that will knock you down to sleep regardless if you fight the medications effect or not.

Benadryl in its simplest capsule form is actually an allergy medication that belongs to a group of other oral antihistamines, nasal antihistamine, sprays, decongestants and the like. Though it is usually prescribed as a medicine for allergies, some people actually use this to put them to sleep.

In studies and surveys made in the recent years, there has been a great increase in the number of people who suffer from allergies as well as an increase in the types of allergy medications available in the market for those who are in need of them. An advantage is that these drugs are accessible to anyone as they can actually be bought over the counter. However, it has its downside as well. One of the most common side effects of most over-the-counter allergy medications that are widely prescribed all over the world is drowsiness.

The drug Benadryl, with a generic name diphenhydramine, is actually designed to block the production of histamine in the system. This chemical that we now know is histamine is accountable for a lot of symptoms and allergic reactions such as swelling, itching, breathing difficulties, runny nose and the like. The most prominent side effect of it nonetheless is drowsiness or the feeling of tiredness. This is why some doctors use this medication for sleeping problems since it also works as a sedative.

Author: maureen

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One Response

  1. Holly

    September 24, 2014 9:40 am

    The title is “Why does Benadryl make you sleepy?” The question is NEVER answered in the article. You should title the article “What is Benadryl Prescribed For?” That is all that is covered.

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