Antihistamines help fight signs of allergic reactions such as coughing, common cold and / or hay fever. Diphenhydramine is a generic form of antihistamine; a popular branded version of this med is Benadryl. This med is used for the treatment of itchiness, coughs, a runny nose, rashes on skin or persistent episodes of sneezing. As an extended use, Benadryl is also taken for treating discomforts like being dizzy, nausea or vomiting – caused by motion sickness. But, what happens if you take expired Benadryl? It is an essential thing to know more on this front.
Meds that form part of a category known as antihistamines have capabilities to manage allergic reactions such as common cold or flu, allergic rhinitis, nasal blockages, etc. Almost all antihistamine drugs are known for their short-action. Such meds can bring about needful relief from allergic reactions caused by pet dander, mites, pollen, etc. Though antihistamine meds can clear nasal congestion, chronic disorders such as asthma, bronchial asthma or other COPD must consult their doctor prior to using such drugs.
What is Benadryl?
This belongs to the class of antihistamines and is also administered for treating a few symptoms of infections like coughs, common cold or runny nose. It is categorised under first generation antihistamines. It is also taken to treat disturbed sleeping cycles or conditions such as insomnia (sleeplessness).
The key ingredients present in Benadryl work against histamines. These are chemicals your body makes to counter the effects of allergens like dust, pollen, or mites. The drug also inhibits another chemical called acetylcholine; this substance causes watery discharge from nose or eyes. In general, this drug is seldom administered onto children aged below 7 years. It is a safe practice to consult with your caregiving team prior to using this med onto younger patients.
What are the adverse effects of taking expired Benadryl?
A date of expiry of the date by which a drug-maker guarantees full potency of a med. Solid forms of meds – like capsules or tablets / pills – are stable for a few months after expiry. On the other hand, meds that are sold as liquid (syrup) or in a suspended form may witness a substantial loss of potency past their dates of expiry.
In case of Benadryl’s liquid form, how you store the drug matters. If you have stored in a cool and dry place (which is amply shielded from direct sources of light) it may still work. However, the level of its potency or the efficacy of this med may vary. It is important to check with your treating doctor / pharmacist prior to use such expired drugs.
Precautions related to the use of this antihistamine
Benadryl is often used as an OTC drug; due to this, the chances of an overdosed condition are quite high. How to know if you are overdosed? One can infer it from the typical signs and symptoms; it may show through rapid heart rate or an erratic pulse-rate – often seen with sweating profusely, drowsiness / dizziness, fits or epileptic convulsions.
If you are observing one or more of the above adverse side effects, it is an essential thing to take clinical assistance on an emergency mode. Users of Benadryl in the US – upon noticing any adverse reactions – must call911 without much delay. You can also seek needful help from the food and drug administration (FDA) for timely clinical assistance. On the other hand, if you are a resident of Canada – and are witnessing respiratory problems or passing out, rush to a nearby poison control unit quickly. Canadian residents may also seek help from Health Canada on a high priority basis.
Disclaimer
Information provided here are only of supplementary nature. Information shared here does not substitute a qualified doctor’s advice. This website is not suggesting intake of this drug as safe or appropriate. Hence it is advised to talk to your doctor before consuming this med or any other drug.