The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved Benadryl, which contains the active ingredient diphenhydramine, to treat anxiety. The medication is also not intended for long-term use.
Diphenhydramine is an over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamine medication for treating allergies. One of its
Anxiety disorders can cause physical symptoms, such as difficulty sleeping. Therefore, some anecdotal reports suggest that taking medications containing diphenhydramine, such as Benadryl, may help with anxiety.
However, healthcare professionals do not recommend diphenhydramine as a treatment for anxiety. Instead, they
- psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy
- medications
- support groups
- lifestyle changes, such as eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly
A person should consider speaking with a doctor if they frequently experience symptoms of anxiety or if symptoms are affecting their daily life.
Side effects and risks of taking diphenhydramine
Side effects of diphenhydramine can include:
- nausea
- drowsiness
- loss of appetite
- dry mouth, nose, and throat
- dizziness
- vomiting
- excitement, particularly in children
- headache
- constipation
- muscle weakness
- increased chest congestion
- nervousness
A person contact a doctor immediately if they experience vision problems, difficulty urinating, or painful urination while taking diphenhydramine.
Diphenhydramine is not intended for long-term use. If a person takes this medication for longer than a healthcare professional recommends, they may be more likely to experience severe side effects.
