The Dark Side Of Nightly Benadryl Use
Many people turn to Benadryl when they have trouble falling asleep, often unaware of the potential risks. While it’s commonly used to treat allergies, cold symptoms, and itchy skin, its sedative side effect—caused by the active ingredient diphenhydramine—has led to widespread off-label use as a sleep aid. However, health experts caution that regularly relying on this medication at bedtime may come with serious long-term consequences.
Diphenhydramine causes drowsiness not only at night but can also leave users feeling sluggish the next day. Dr. James Walker, a physician and advisor with Welzo, notes that the drug induces “marked sedation,” which may persist into daytime hours and impair daily function.
This lingering drowsiness can become dangerous, especially when performing tasks that require alertness. According to Poison Control, Benadryl can negatively impact coordination and reaction time, raising the risk of accidents, particularly when driving or handling machinery.
One of the more concerning outcomes of nightly use is the potential for mental decline. Dr. Walker explains that frequent use can reduce memory performance and attention span, leading to problems with focus and cognitive clarity. A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine in 2015 found that individuals who took diphenhydramine or similar anticholinergic medications for extended periods faced a 54% higher risk of developing dementia compared to short-term users.
In older adults especially, regular use of Benadryl may also increase the likelihood of falling. The drug interferes with balance and motor control, making falls more common—an issue so significant that Harvard Medical School listed it among the medications most likely to contribute to such incidents. The danger intensifies when Benadryl is combined with alcohol or other sedating substances, which can further slow reactions and reduce awareness.
Another lesser-known side effect of prolonged Benadryl use is urinary retention, which can prevent the bladder from emptying fully. This is particularly problematic for those with existing bladder or prostate conditions.
People taking other medications should also exercise caution. Diphenhydramine can interact poorly with various drugs, including tranquilizers, sleep aids, and some antidepressants, intensifying sedative effects and heightening the risk of complications.
Rather than depending on Benadryl as a nightly sleep solution, Dr. Walker advises consulting a healthcare provider to understand the root of any sleep disturbances. He emphasizes that such medications should only be used short-term and under professional guidance.
Doctors may suggest safer alternatives, such as melatonin or magnesium supplements, or recommend adjustments to lifestyle, like increasing physical activity, improving diet, losing excess weight, or establishing a consistent bedtime routine.
For anyone struggling with ongoing insomnia, it’s best to speak directly with a medical professional to develop a personalized and sustainable plan for better sleep.
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