DIPHENHYDRAMINE (Benadryl)

Question 1

DIPHENHYDRAMINE (Benadryl)

CLASS/ACTION:

Answer 1

CLASS/ACTION: Antihistamine

• Antagonizes effects of histamine in allergy. • Decreases itching, edema, bronchoconstriction and vasodilation. • Antagonizes acetylcholine receptors resulting in resolution of dystonia caused by antipsychotic medications.

Question 2

DIPHENHYDRAMINE (Benadryl)

INDICATIONS:

Answer 2

INDICATIONS:

• Anaphylaxis.
• Allergic reactions.
• Dystonic (extrapyramidal) neuromuscular reactions.

Question 3

DIPHENHYDRAMINE (Benadryl)

CONTRAINDICATIONS:

Answer 3

CONTRAINDICATIONS:

• Diphenhydramine can potentiate other CNS depressants
• Relative contraindication in pregnant or lactating females

Question 4

DIPHENHYDRAMINE (Benadryl)

POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS:

Answer 4

POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS:

• Drowsiness and sedation
• Hypotension
• Palpitations
• Tachycardia
• Headache or blurred vision
• Anticholinergic effects

Question 5

DIPHENHYDRAMINE (Benadryl)

ADULT DOSE/ROUTE:

Answer 5

ADULT DOSE/ROUTE:

 25 - 50 mg IVP, IM or IO (up to max. 50 mg).

Question 6

DIPHENHYDRAMINE (Benadryl)

PEDIATRIC DOSE/ROUTE:

Answer 6

PEDIATRIC DOSE/ROUTE:

 1 mg/kg IVP, IO or IM (up to max. 25 mg).

Question 7

DIPHENHYDRAMINE (Benadryl)

NOTES:

Answer 7

NOTES:

• Consider IM administration of Diphenhydramine in patients who are perfusing well.
• Consider IV administration of Diphenhydramine with severe allergic reactions/anaphylaxis.