Should I take 2 Benadryl for hives
Benadryl (diphenhydramine)
You may wonder how Benadryl compares to other medications approved for similar uses. Below are comparisons between Benadryl and several medications.
Benadryl vs. Claritin
Benadryl is a first-generation antihistamine. Claritin (loratadine) is a newer, second-generation antihistamine. Second-generation antihistamines are often called nonsedating antihistamines because theyre less likely to cause sleepiness than first-generation antihistamines.
Both Benadryl and Claritin are over-the-counter (OTC) medications.
Uses
Oral Benadryl products are approved for decreasing symptoms of hay fever and other respiratory allergies, and symptoms of the common cold, such as sneezing and runny nose. Topical Benadryl products are approved for decreasing pain and itchy skin resulting from hives, insect bites, and other causes.
Claritin is approved for decreasing symptoms of hay fever and other respiratory allergies.
Drug forms
Benadryl comes in many different forms, including:
- oral tablets
- oral liquid-filled capsules (liqui-gels)
- oral chewable tablets
- oral liquid solution
- topical cream
- topical gel
- topical spray
- topical stick
Oral Benadryl products are usually taken every 4 to 6 hours. Topical products are typically used up to four times daily.
Claritin is also available in many different forms, including:
- oral tablets
- orally disintegrating tablets
- oral liquid-filled capsules (liqui-gels)
- oral liquid syrup
Claritin tablets, liquid-filled capsules, and syrup are taken once daily. The orally disintegrating tablets are used either once daily or twice daily.
Side effects and risks
Benadryl and Claritin have some similar side effects, and some that differ. Below are examples of these side effects.
* Both Benadryl and Claritin can cause sleepiness, but its much more common in people who take Benadryl.
Effectiveness
Benadryl and Claritin are both effective for reducing symptoms of hay fever and other allergies, and for treating hives or itchy skin. However, Benadryl isnt usually a first-choice treatment for these conditions due to its risk of side effects such as sleepiness.
Claritin and other second-generation antihistamines are usually preferred.
Costs
Benadryl and Claritin are both brand-name OTC products. Claritin usually costs more than Benadryl.
Both of these products have store-brand versions. Store brands are usually cheaper than the brand-name versions.
Benadryl vs. Zyrtec
Benadryl is a first-generation antihistamine. Zyrtec (cetirizine) is a newer, second-generation antihistamine. Second-generation antihistamines are often called nonsedating antihistamines because theyre less likely to cause sleepiness than first-generation antihistamines.
Both Benadryl and Zyrtec are OTC medications.
Uses
Oral Benadryl products are approved for decreasing symptoms of hay fever and other respiratory allergies, and symptoms of the common cold, such as sneezing and runny nose. Topical Benadryl products are approved for decreasing pain and itchy skin due to hives, insect bites, and other causes.
Zyrtec is approved for decreasing symptoms of hay fever and other respiratory allergies.
Drug forms
Benadryl is available in many different forms, including:
- oral tablets
- oral liquid-filled capsules (liqui-gels)
- oral chewable tablets
- oral liquid solution
- topical cream
- topical gel
- topical spray
- topical stick
Oral Benadryl products are usually taken every 4 to 6 hours. Topical Benadryl products are typically used up to four times daily.
Zyrtec is also available in many different forms, including:
- oral tablets
- orally disintegrating tablets (dissolve tabs)
- oral liquid gels
- oral liquid syrup
Zyrtec products are usually taken once daily.
Side effects and risks
Benadryl and Zyrtec have some similar side effects, and some that differ. Below are examples of these side effects.
* Both Benadryl and Zyrtec can cause sleepiness, but its more common in people who take Benadryl.
Effectiveness
Benadryl and Zyrtec are both effective for reducing symptoms of hay fever and other allergies, and for treating hives or itchy skin. However, Benadryl isnt usually a first choice for these conditions because of its risk of side effects such as sleepiness. Zyrtec and other second-generation antihistamines are usually preferred.
Costs
Benadryl and Zyrtec are both brand-name OTC products. Zyrtec usually costs more than Benadryl.
Both of these products have store-brand versions. Store brands are usually cheaper than the brand-name versions.
Benadryl vs. Allegra
Benadryl is a first-generation antihistamine. Allegra (fexofenadine) is a newer, second-generation antihistamine. Second-generation antihistamines are often called nonsedating antihistamines because theyre less likely to cause sleepiness than first-generation antihistamines.
Both Benadryl and Allegra are OTC medications.
Uses
Oral Benadryl products are approved for decreasing symptoms of hay fever and other respiratory allergies, and symptoms of the common cold, such as sneezing and runny nose. Topical Benadryl products are approved for decreasing pain and itchy skin due to hives, insect bites, and other causes.
Allegra is approved for decreasing symptoms of hay fever and other respiratory allergies, and itchy skin caused by hives, insect bites, and other causes.
Drug forms
Benadryl is available in many different forms, including:
- oral tablets
- oral liquid-filled capsules (liqui-gels)
- oral chewable tablets
- oral liquid solution
- topical cream
- topical gel
- topical spray
- topical stick
Oral Benadryl products are usually taken every 4 to 6 hours. Topical Benadryl products are typically used up to four times daily.
Allegra is also available in many different forms, including:
- oral tablets
- orally disintegrating tablets (meltable tablets)
- oral gel-coated tablets (gelcaps)
- oral liquid suspension
Allegra products are taken once or twice daily.
Side effects and risks
Benadryl and Allegra have some similar side effects, and some that differ. Below are examples of these side effects.
Effectiveness
Benadryl and Allegra are both effective for reducing symptoms of hay fever and other allergies and for treating hives or itchy skin. However, Benadryl isnt usually a first choice for these conditions because of the risk of side effects such as sleepiness. Allegra and other second-generation antihistamines are usually preferred.
Costs
Benadryl and Allegra are both brand-name OTC products. Allegra usually costs more than Benadryl.
Both of these products have store-brand versions. Store brands are usually cheaper than the brand-name versions.
Benadryl vs. Unisom
Benadryl contains the ingredient diphenhydramine, a first-generation antihistamine.
There are different forms of Unisom. Most of these also contain the ingredient diphenhydramine. However, one Unisom product contains a similar drug, doxylamine.
Uses
Oral Benadryl products are approved for decreasing symptoms of hay fever and other respiratory allergies, and symptoms of the common cold, such as sneezing and runny nose. Topical Benadryl products are approved for decreasing pain and itchy skin due to hives, insect bites, and other causes.
Although its not approved for this purpose, some people take Benadryl to help improve their sleep. Unisom is approved for helping relieve occasional sleeplessness. Its not intended to be used to treat ongoing or long-term insomnia.
Drug forms
Benadryl is available in many different forms, including:
- oral tablets
- oral liquid-filled capsules (liqui-gels)
- oral chewable tablets
- oral liquid solution
- topical cream
- topical gel
- topical spray
- topical stick
Oral Benadryl products are usually taken every 4 to 6 hours. Topical Benadryl products are typically used up to four times daily. Oral Benadryl products are not approved for sleeplessness, but some people take oral Benadryl once before bedtime for that purpose.
There are also several forms of Unisom products. These include:
- diphenhydramine-containing products:
- oral softgels (SleepGels)
- oral mini capsules (SleepMinis)
- oral liquid
- orally disintegrating tablets (SleepMelts)
- doxylamine-contain product:
These products are usually taken once daily, just before bedtime or at bedtime.
Side effects and risks
Benadryl and most Unisom products contain the same ingredient, diphenhydramine. One form of Unisom contains a different ingredient, doxylamine. Doxylamine is very similar to diphenhydramine and causes very similar common and serious side effects.
The most common side effects of Benadryl and Unisom include:
Some serious side effects can include:
Effectiveness
Benadryl and most forms of Unisom contain the same active ingredient, diphenhydramine. Both products can help people with occasional sleeplessness to fall asleep. This effect may decrease or wear off with continued use.
According to a
Costs
Benadryl and Unisom are both brand-name OTC products. These products usually cost about the same.
Both of these products have store-brand versions. Store brands are usually cheaper than the brand-name versions.
Benadryl vs. melatonin
Benadryl contains the ingredient diphenhydramine, a first-generation antihistamine.
Melatonin is a hormone that naturally occurs in the body. Its involved in regulating the wake-sleep cycle of the body. Its available as a dietary supplement.
Uses
Oral Benadryl products are approved for decreasing symptoms of hay fever and other respiratory allergies, and symptoms of the common cold, such as sneezing and runny nose. Topical Benadryl products are approved for decreasing pain and itchy skin due to hives, insect bites, and other causes.
Although its not approved, some people take oral Benadryl to help improve their sleep.
Melatonin is most commonly used to help relieve sleeplessness.
Drug forms
Benadryl is available in many different forms, including:
- oral tablets
- oral liquid-filled capsules (liqui-gels)
- oral chewable tablets
- oral liquid solution
- topical cream
- topical gel
- topical spray
- topical stick
Oral Benadryl products are usually taken every 4 to 6 hours. Topical Benadryl products are typically used up to four times daily. Oral Benadryl products arent approved for sleeplessness, but some people take oral Benadryl once before bedtime for that purpose.
Melatonin is also available in different forms, including:
- oral tablets
- oral gummies
- orally dissolving tablets (fast-dissolving tablets)
- oral capsules
- oral chewable tablets
- oral liquid
Melatonin is usually taken once daily at bedtime.
Side effects and risks
Benadryl and melatonin have some similar side effects, and some that differ. Below are examples of these side effects.
Effectiveness
Benadryl can help people with occasional sleeplessness to fall asleep. However, this effect may decrease or wear off with continued use of the product.
A
According to the
Costs
Melatonin usually costs more than Benadryl.
Both of these products have store-brand versions. Store brands are usually cheaper than the brand-name versions.
BENADRYL (Diphenhydramine HCl) Dosing Guide for Adults & Children
About Childrens BENADRYL (Diphenhydramine HCl) Dosage
Childrens BENADRYL allergy medicine products provide 4 to 6 hours of relief (per dose) of indoor and outdoor allergy symptoms such as:
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Itchy throat
- Itchy nose
When giving your kids Childrens BENADRYL Allergy Liquid, be sure to only use the dosing cup that comes in the package. Other items like kitchen teaspoons, droppers, or measuring devices that come with other medicines may not be accurate.
Pediatric dosing is to be given every 4 to 6 hours, or as directed by a doctor. Do not give more than 6 doses in 24 hours.
As with any medicine, overdose, abuse, or misuse can lead to serious side effects with potentially long-lasting or even life-threatening consequences.
Some signs of overdosage of BENADRYL in children are extreme drowsiness, dilated pupils, blurry vision, confusion, racing heart, dry mouth, difficulty urinating, and agitation. If you suspect overdosage of BENADRYL, immediately contact your local poison control center (1-800-222-1222).
About Adult BENADRYL (Diphenhydramine HCl) Dosage
BENADRYL provides 4 to 6 hours of effective relief from of indoor and outdoor allergy symptoms related to hay fever, upper respiratory allergy, or cold symptoms such as:
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Itchy throat
- Itchy nose
Always follow the instructions that come with BENADRYL. Take every 4 to 6 hours, or as directed by a doctor. Do not take more than 6 doses in 24 hours.
As with any medicine, overdose, abuse, or misuse can lead to serious side effects with potentially long-lasting or even life-threatening consequences.
Some signs of overdose of BENADRYL in adults are extreme drowsiness, dilated pupils, blurry vision, confusion, racing heart, dry mouth, difficulty urinating, and agitation. If you suspect overdosage of BENADRYL, immediately contact your local poison control center.
If you believe that you or someone you know has taken BENADRYL or other diphenhydramine products in a manner not directed by the label, contact your local poison control center (1-800-222-1222).
The safety of the people who use our products is our top priority. To learn more about steps taken to address misuse and abuse of BENADRYL and other diphenhydramine-containing products, visit our SAFETY page.
For a list of common questions and answers about BENADRYL, please visit our frequently asked questions page.
What to Do When Antihistamines Arent Working for Hives
Antihistamines may not work for some people, depending on the severity of their hives. You may need an increased dosage or a different medication altogether.
After a chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU) diagnosis, your doctor will likely prescribe an oral antihistamine to treat your symptoms. However, antihistamines arent always effective.
If youve already tried an antihistamine and you arent seeing results, schedule an appointment with your doctor to learn about possible next steps.
Here are some questions you can ask your doctor at your follow-up appointment and some information about what you might hear in response.
Its hard to say why antihistamines work for some people and not for others. But its not uncommon for antihistamines to be or become ineffective.
Research on the effectiveness of antihistamines for chronic hives has shown a response rate as low as
Antihistamines may stop working because hives can become worse over time or because the intensity of hives can wax and wane over time.
Its also possible that antihistamines become less effective because people arent taking them as prescribed.
Even if you cant identify the cause of your CIU, you may be able to pinpoint triggers that bring on outbreaks or increase the severity of your hives.
See whether any of the following common triggers seem to affect you:
- pets or pet dander
- exposure to extreme heat or cold
- exposure to direct sunlight
- vigorous exercise
- pressure on the skin
- stress or anxiety
- nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (like ibuprofen)
By understanding your personal triggers, you can put yourself in a better position to avoid them.
After seeing little to no results from an antihistamine, your doctor may suggest that you try the following treatments, usually in the following order:
- Higher dose: Sometimes increasing the dose of your current antihistamine can yield better results.
- A different antihistamine or a combination of several different antihistamines. Your doctor may consider switching you to a different antihistamine or putting you on a regimen of two types of antihistamines. For example, they may recommend an H1-antihistamine combined with an H2-antihistamine, which targets different receptors in the body.
- Oral corticosteroids. While doctors usually dont recommend prolonged use of steroids due to potential side effects, they may recommend a short course. This is especially likely if your hives are severe or if theyre accompanied by swelling.
- Cyclosporine (Gengraf, Neoral, Sandimmune): This is an immunosuppressant drug that has led to remission from hives in
50% of cases , according to research. - Omalizumab (Xolair). Your doctor may recommend omalizumab, a medication thats injected once a month if your hives are difficult to treat, but is effective in 80% of cases.
- Leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRAs): Two drugs, zafirlukast (Accolate) and montelukast, might be prescribed in cases of hives caused by Aspirin, and there isnt enough data on their effectiveness on hives overall.
If your medication isnt giving you the relief you need, you can try the following methods to ease itching:
- Moisturize regularly with lotion.
- Use cool water when you shower.
- Apply a cold compress or an ice pack to affected areas.
- Try using over-the-counter creams such as calamine lotion.
- Wear loose clothing made from 100% cotton or 100% silk.
While none of the above methods will treat your CIU, they can at least provide comfort during a flare-up.
Dietary changes to help prevent hives
Researchers are still studying whether changing your diet can impact the severity and duration of CIU flare-ups.
A 2018 preliminary Korean study suggests that an antihistamine diet, where you avoid foods that contain high levels of histamine, may help reduce the severity on an individual level.
Since this and other similar studies only involved a small group of participants, researchers arent ready to draw wide conclusions about the diets success rate.
Even so, it may be worth talking with your doctor to see whether changing your diet is a good option.
No. Hives are never contagious, so you dont need to worry about spreading them to friends, family members, or others who are in close contact.
You also dont have to worry about the hives spreading if you touch other parts of your body after touching your hives.
If youre concerned about what other people will think when they see the welts on your skin, you can ask your doctor to provide a note explaining the nature of CIU and its symptoms. This can be especially useful for school-aged children.
No. While it may be frustrating to learn that antihistamines arent effective at treating your hives, you dont need to worry that they will leave any permanent marks or scars.
Most hives last for no longer than 24 hours and should fade and disappear after that.
While most cases of CIU arent dangerous, there are several warning signs that you should be aware of. Sudden and severe hives can mean youre experiencing an allergic reaction and need urgent medical attention.
If you experience any of the symptoms of anaphylaxis alongside a hives outbreak, call 911 or go to the emergency room:
By definition, chronic means that your hives will last for 6 weeks or more. But theres no way to say for sure exactly how long a specific outbreak episode will last. It could be months or even years.
Each individual welt will probably last for several hours, but theyre often quickly replaced by new ones.
The good news is that CIU can go away, its just hard to predict when.
Should I see an allergist?
If youve already been diagnosed with CIU, your doctor believes the cause is unknown and an allergy isnt to blame. But if you suspect that your doctor overlooked an underlying allergy, you may want to consider seeing an allergist.
What happens if hives dont go away with Benadryl?
Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is an over-the-counter antihistamine that can be used to treat mild allergic reactions, including hives. It is an H1 antihistamine, which means it is one of the ones your doctor may want you to try first. It is also available in higher doses as a prescription if the OTC version doesnt work for you. If its still ineffective, your doctor will likely switch you to H2 antihistamines, other medications, or a combination of drugs.
Why is Benadryl not stopping my allergic reaction?
If there is an ongoing trigger for your hives in your environment, you might continue to develop them or they may worsen even if youre taking an antihistamine like Benadryl. In addition to taking medication, its important to try to identify the trigger and eliminate it. To do this, make an appointment with a dermatologist or allergist for testing, and track your flare-ups. That said, sometimes there is no identifiable cause. Make sure you are taking your medication exactly as prescribed or following the directions on the box of any OTC drug.
If antihistamines dont work for you, dont become discouraged. This happens for certain people and under certain circumstances.
Ask your doctor about possible next steps. Whether that involves a different form of medication or introducing some natural steps to reduce itching, you have options to decrease CIU-related discomfort.
