FDA recently issued a MedWatch alert warning consumers about serious harm with diphenhydramine when taken in amounts exceeding the recommended dose. The warning is in response to recent reports of teenagers taking high doses of diphenhydramine as part of a “Benadryl Challenge” popularized on the social media platform TikTok, which have resulted in serious harm and even death. TikTok has removed videos related to the “Benadryl Challenge,” and FDA is reviewing if additional cases have occurred.
Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine, available over-the-counter to relieve symptoms of hay fever, allergy, or the common cold. At high doses, diphenhydramine may cause hallucinations, heart problems, seizures, coma, or death. The Drug Facts label on over-the-counter diphenhydramine contains important information including the amount of diphenhydramine in each dose and how much to take.
Store medications out of the reach of children. If a person is suspected of taking more than the recommended amount of diphenhydramine and is hallucinating, has a seizure, is unresponsive, or is having breathing problems, seek medical attention immediately or contact Poison Control at 1‑800-222-1222.
Patients and health care providers can report adverse drug events related to diphenhydramine to the FDA by submitting the report online, downloading the form or calling 1-800-332-1088.
Additional information is available at the following links: