Have you ever considered taking Benadryl as a sleep aid? If so, you may be wondering if it's possible to get addicted to the medication. While Benadryl is not considered to be a addictive substance, it is possible to develop a dependency on it. This means that if you regularly use Benadryl to help you sleep, you may find it difficult to fall asleep without it. If you find yourself in this situation, it's important to speak with your doctor about your options. They may be able to prescribe a different medication that won't have the same risk of dependency.It's no secret that many people struggle with sleep. In fact, according to the National Sleep Foundation, 50 to 70 million Americans suffer from a sleep disorder. And while there are a variety of medications and treatments available to help people get the shut-eye they need, some people turn to an over-the-counter option: Benadryl.
But can you get addicted to Benadryl as a sleep aid? Let's take a closer look.
What is Benadryl?
Benadryl is the brand name for an antihistamine called diphenhydramine. It's used to relieve symptoms of allergies, colds, and the flu. Diphenhydramine blocks histamine, a substance in the body that triggers allergic reactions.
The medication is available in both over-the-counter and prescription strength. It's also found in some combination cold and allergy medications, like Zyrtec-D.
Can You Get Addicted to Benadryl?
While diphenhydramine is considered safe for most people, it can cause some side effects, including dry mouth, drowsiness, and dizziness. These side effects are more likely when the medication is used at higher doses or for long periods of time.
Diphenhydramine can be habit forming. This means that people who take it regularly may start to feel like they need it in order to fall asleep. And while they may not experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking the medication, they may feel restless or irritable.
Are There Any Risks Associated with Taking Benadryl for Sleep?
While Benadryl is generally considered safe, there are some risks associated with taking it for sleep. For starters, it can interact with other medications you're taking, including antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and sedatives. It can also make certain medical conditions worse, like asthma, glaucoma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
In addition, diphenhydramine can cause side effects like dry mouth, constipation, urinary retention, and blurred vision. It can also potentially lead to more serious problems like seizures and hallucinations.
So, Should You Take Benadryl for Sleep?
If you're struggling with sleep, it's important to talk to your doctor about your options. While Benadryl may help you fall asleep, it's not without its risks. And there are other medications and treatments that may be more effective in treating your insomnia or other sleep disorder.
