From the Guidelines
The maximum daily dose of Benadryl (diphenhydramine) for children should not exceed 25-50 mg/dose or 1-2 mg/kg parenterally, as recommended by the most recent and highest quality study available 1. When considering the administration of Benadryl to children, it is crucial to prioritize their safety and well-being, focusing on minimizing the risk of adverse effects such as drowsiness, dry mouth, and potential overdose complications like seizures or cardiac issues. Key considerations for dosing include:
- Age and weight of the child, as these factors significantly influence the appropriate dose.
- The route of administration, with parenteral doses being 1-2 mg/kg or 25-50 mg/dose, as specified in the study 1.
- The importance of not exceeding the recommended dose to avoid serious side effects.
- The need for close supervision by a healthcare provider, especially in children under 6 years, due to the higher risks associated with Benadryl in this age group. Given the potential for severe reactions and the importance of precise dosing, it is essential to follow the guidelines provided by the most recent and reliable medical research, such as the study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology 1, to ensure the safe and effective use of Benadryl in children.
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) • Children 6 to under 12 years of age 10 mL (25 mg)
The maximum daily dose for children over 12 years is 6 doses of 10 mL (25 mg) to 20 mL (50 mg) in 24 hours, and for children 6 to under 12 years is 6 doses of 10 mL (25 mg) in 24 hours 2.
- For children over 12 years: 6 x 50 mg = 300 mg per day
- For children 6 to under 12 years: 6 x 25 mg = 150 mg per day
From the Research
Maximum Daily Dose of Benadryl for Children
There are no research papers provided to directly answer the question about the maximum daily dose of Benadryl for children.
Available Information
- The provided studies focus on the anticholinergic activity of drugs, including diphenhydramine (the active ingredient in Benadryl), and their effects on older adults 3, 4.
- One study discusses the association between long-term use of medicines with anticholinergic activity and worsening of cognitive function, increased incidence of dementia, and increased mortality in older people 3.
- Another study examines the cognitive and other adverse effects of diphenhydramine use in hospitalized older patients, finding an increased risk for delirium symptoms, urinary catheter placement, and longer hospital stays 4.
- However, neither study provides information on the maximum daily dose of Benadryl for children.
Limitations
- The available evidence does not address the specific question about the maximum daily dose of Benadryl for children.
- The studies provided are focused on the effects of anticholinergic drugs, including diphenhydramine, in older adults, rather than children.