From the Guidelines
Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is not recommended for men with BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia) due to its anticholinergic properties, which can worsen urinary retention and potentially lead to acute urinary retention, a medical emergency. The most recent and highest quality study, 1, published in 2021, provides guidance on the management of lower urinary tract symptoms attributed to BPH, but does not recommend the use of anticholinergic medications like Benadryl.
Alternatives for Allergy Relief
If you have BPH and need allergy relief, consider non-sedating antihistamines like:
- Loratadine (Claritin)
- Cetirizine (Zyrtec) These alternatives have fewer anticholinergic effects and are less likely to exacerbate BPH symptoms.
BPH Treatment Options
For BPH treatment itself, medications like:
- Alpha-blockers (tamsulosin, alfuzosin)
- 5-alpha reductase inhibitors (finasteride, dutasteride)
- Combination therapy are typically prescribed depending on symptom severity, as recommended by 1.
Important Considerations
Always consult with your healthcare provider before taking any medication if you have BPH to avoid potentially harmful drug interactions or worsening of urinary symptoms. Additionally, older adults are more sensitive to the psychomotor impairment promoted by first-generation antihistamines, such as Benadryl, and are at increased risk for complications like fractures and subdural hematomas caused by falls, as noted in 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
Ask a doctor before use if you have • a breathing problem such as chronic bronchitis • glaucoma • trouble urinating due to enlarged prostate gland The use of diphenhydramine (Benadryl) in patients with BPH (enlarged prostate gland) should be done under the guidance of a doctor, as it may exacerbate urination problems.
- Key consideration: trouble urinating due to enlarged prostate gland is a precaution for use. 2
From the Research
BPH and Benadryl
There is no direct evidence in the provided studies regarding the use of Benadryl for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH).
Treatment Options for BPH
- Medical therapy is becoming increasingly important in the treatment of patients with moderate symptoms of BPH 3
- Alpha-blockers and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors are well-tolerated and effective modalities for treating BPH 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
- Combination therapy using alpha-blockers and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors is better than monotherapy in patients with BPH 4, 6
- Phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors and beta-3 agonists may also be used in managing BPH, especially in patients with concomitant erectile dysfunction or residual storage symptoms 5, 6, 7
Management of BPH
- The final decision about the best treatment for a particular patient must take into account the patient's preference after he has been informed of the different options 3
- An algorithmic approach can be a helpful guide to the decision-making process in managing BPH 5
- Medical therapy remains the main treatment option for men suffering from BPH-LUTS, with numerous medical options available that can be tailored to meet the individual's needs depending on their personal and prostate characteristics 5, 7