From the FDA Drug Label
• do not take more than 6 doses in 24 hours • Adults and children over 12 years of age 10 mL (25 mg) to 20 mL (50 mg) The maximum daily dose of Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is:
- For adults and children over 12 years: 300 mg (6 doses of 50 mg) per 24 hours 1
- For children 6 to under 12 years: 150 mg (6 doses of 25 mg) per 24 hours 1 Note: Children under 6 years should not use Benadryl (diphenhydramine) 1
From the Research
The maximum daily dose of Benadryl (diphenhydramine) for adults and children 12 years and older is 300 mg per day, typically divided into doses of 25-50 mg taken every 4-6 hours. For most people, taking 25-50 mg per dose is sufficient for allergy or sleep symptoms. Children ages 6-11 should take no more than 150 mg daily, while children under 6 should only use diphenhydramine as directed by a healthcare provider. Exceeding these recommended doses can lead to serious side effects including severe drowsiness, confusion, dry mouth, blurred vision, urinary retention, and in extreme cases, seizures or cardiac issues, as reported in cases of overdose 2, 3, 4. Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine that works by blocking histamine receptors in the body, which helps reduce allergy symptoms, but also crosses the blood-brain barrier causing sedation. Elderly individuals should use lower doses as they're more sensitive to side effects. Anyone with glaucoma, enlarged prostate, breathing problems, or taking other medications should consult a healthcare provider before using Benadryl.
Some key points to consider when using Benadryl include:
- The risk of severe symptoms, including delirium, psychosis, seizures, and coma, increases with doses above 1.0 g of diphenhydramine 2.
- The American Association of Poison Control Centers has guidelines for the management of diphenhydramine overdose, including referral to an emergency department for patients with suspected ingestion of toxic doses 5.
- Social media trends, such as the "Benadryl Challenge," can pose public health threats, particularly among teenagers, and healthcare providers should be aware of these trends to provide informed guidance and care 4.
Overall, it is essential to use Benadryl responsibly and follow the recommended dosage guidelines to minimize the risk of adverse effects and ensure safe use.