Benadryl (Diphenhydramine) is an over the counter (OTC) medication used to treat cold or allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, hives, skin rash, itching, etc. Benadryl can also be used to treat motion sickness, to induce sleep, and to treat certain symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Benadryl belongs to a class of medications called antihistamines, which works by reducing the effects of the natural chemical histamine in the body. It does this through its effects as an inverse agonist of histamine receptors in the body. This means that it attaches to histamine receptors at the same point that agonists (chemicals that increase the actions of other chemicals) typically bind to, and blocks both the histamine chemical itself as well as the actions of any agonists that may increase histamine levels. By reducing the effects of histamines on the capillaries (small blood vessels), Benadryl can reduce allergic symptoms. Its effects on the histamine receptors also cause drowsiness, allowing for it to be used for inducing sleep. For the treatment of Parkinson’s symptoms, Benadryl blocks the effects of muscarinic acetylcholine receptors in the brain, which can cause several Parkinson’s symptoms. Benadryl also works as a sodium channel blocker, allowing it to act as a local anaesthetic. Through this, Benadryl can reduce overstimulation of the inner ear, and reduce motion sickness.
Manufacturer Information
Canadian Pharmacy King currently offers the brand Benadryl from Canada by Johnson & Johnson. The generic Diphenhydramine comes from Canada by a different manufacturer. The brand Benadryl and the generic Diphenhydramine is available in several formats and strengths.
Brand Benadryl:
• Benadryl Itch Spray - 2 %/0.1 %/59 ml;
• Benadryl Itch Stick - 2 %/0.1 %/14 ml;
• Benadryl child liquid 100 mg & 250 ml - 6.25 mg/5 ml;
• Benadryl caplets and Liqui-Gels - 25 mg
Generic Diphenhydramine:
• Diphenhydramine Oral Elixir - 12.5 mg/5 ml;
• Diphenhydramine capsules - 25 mg;
• Diphenhydramine extra strength tablets - 50 mg;
• Diphenhydramine Injection Vial - 50 mg/ml