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Can you use Benadryl (diphenhydramine) for anxiety?

That said, there are potential downsides to off-label use medications like Benadryl for anxiety.

Because of this, diphenhydramine is in a lot of over-the-counter sleep aids.

Woman taking medication.

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Some people take Benadryl for anxiety because of the calming side effects it can have.

An adult dose to obtain sedating effects is between 25 and 50 milligrams.

However, these effects are less than you would experience with prescription sedatives such asbenzodiazepines.

Benadryl is not the only antihistamine that is sometimes used off-label for anxiety relief.

Like other treatments for anxiety, herbal remedies can also have calming effects, but they are generally mild.

These herbal remedies are generally not strong enough to effectively treat acute anxiety symptoms.

Herbal remedies are best used under a doctor’s guidance to complement other first-line treatments for significant anxiety.

Painkillers

Various painkillers may act on parts of the brain involved in the experience of emotional pain.

These qualities can be helpful if you gotta reduce symptoms of mild anxiety quickly.

Because Benadryl causes many people to feel drowsy, it can also help with sleep.

Some people may experience severe drowsiness, fatigue, and dizziness.

These medications and supplements are also not approved by the FDA for the treatment of anxiety.

Find out which option is the best for you.

you’ve got the option to theoretically use over-the-counter medications for anxiety while receiving other treatments.

But first, ask yourself why.

They can help you determine the best course of treatment for you.

Who Should Use Over-the-Counter Medications?

American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.Anxiety disorders: Parents' medication guide.

Cleveland Clinic.Diphenhydramine capsules or tablets.

2007;54(3):118-129. doi:10.2344/0003-3006(2007)54[118:osapoa]2.0.CO;2