From the Guidelines
For an 8-year-old child, the appropriate dose of Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is 1 to 2 mg/kg per dose, with a maximum dose of 50 mg IV or oral, as recommended by the most recent guidelines 1. The dosage is based on the child's weight, and it's essential to use the children's formulation of Benadryl rather than adult versions.
- Before giving Benadryl to your child, check the product label to confirm the concentration and use the measuring device provided with the medication for accurate dosing.
- Side effects may include drowsiness, dry mouth, and in some children, paradoxical excitability.
- Benadryl works by blocking histamine receptors, which helps reduce allergy symptoms like itching, sneezing, and runny nose.
- If your child's symptoms don't improve, persist beyond a few days, or if they develop concerning side effects, consult a healthcare provider promptly.
- Never exceed the recommended dose or frequency, as this can lead to adverse effects. It's also important to note that Benadryl should not be used as a first-line treatment for anaphylaxis, but rather as an adjunctive treatment in addition to epinephrine and other therapies, as recommended by the guidelines 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
Directions • take every 4 to 6 hours, or as directed by a physician• do not take more than 6 doses in 24 hours age dose Adults and children over 12 years of age10 mL (25 mg) to 20 mL (50 mg) Children 6 to under 12 years of age10 mL (25 mg) Children under 6 years of ageDo not use
The appropriate dose of Benadryl for an 8-year-old is 10 mL (25 mg), as they fall into the category of Children 6 to under 12 years of age 2.
From the Research
Dosage Information for Benadryl (Diphenhydramine) in Children
- The provided studies do not directly address the appropriate dose of Benadryl for an 8-year-old child.
- However, it is known that diphenhydramine is used to treat various conditions, including allergic reactions and coughs, as mentioned in the studies 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.
- The study 3 mentions the use of diphenhydramine in the treatment of whooping cough, but does not provide dosage information for children.
- Study 4 compares the effectiveness of intravenous cetirizine and diphenhydramine in preventing hypersensitivity infusion reactions, but does not provide information on dosage for children.
- Studies 5, 6, and 7 discuss the use of antihistamines, including diphenhydramine, in various contexts, but do not provide specific dosage information for children.
General Considerations for Benadryl Dosage in Children
- It is essential to consult a healthcare professional or a pediatrician to determine the appropriate dose of Benadryl for a child, as it depends on various factors, including the child's weight, age, and medical condition.
- The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children's medication dosages be based on their weight, rather than their age.
- It is crucial to follow the recommended dosage and administration instructions to ensure the safe and effective use of Benadryl in children.