Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is an antihistamine that can be used to treat allergic reactions to food and other allergens. When someone has an allergic reaction, their immune system releases histamine, which causes allergy symptoms like hives, swelling, coughing, wheezing, etc. Antihistamines like Benadryl block the effects of histamine and can provide relief from allergy symptoms. So yes, Benadryl can help treat allergic reactions to food. However, it’s important to understand when and how to use Benadryl for food allergies.
What causes food allergies?
Food allergies occur when the immune system mistakenly identifies a food protein as harmful. The body then produces an allergic response each time that food is consumed. The most common food allergens are:
| Food | Prevalence in U.S. Population |
|---|---|
| Cow’s milk | 2.5% in children under 3 years old |
| Eggs | 2% in children |
| Peanuts | 1% in U.S. population |
| Tree nuts | 1% in U.S. population |
| Shellfish | 2% in adults |
| Wheat | 0.4% in children |
| Soy | 0.4% in children |
| Fish | 0.1% in U.S. population |
For those with food allergies, exposure can trigger an immune response involving the release of IgE antibodies as well as histamine. This leads to symptoms that can range from mild to life-threatening.
Common symptoms of food allergic reactions
Symptoms of a food allergic reaction can range from mild to severe and can include:
| Mild to Moderate Symptoms | Severe Symptoms |
|---|---|
| – Hives or itchy skin | – Swelling of the lips, face, throat |
| – Tingling in the mouth | – Difficulty breathing, wheezing |
| – Stomach pain, vomiting | – Very low blood pressure |
| – Rash | – Loss of consciousness |
| – Runny nose, sneezing | – Chest pain |
Reactions can occur within minutes to hours after exposure. The severity of symptoms can change quickly. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening reaction that impairs breathing and sends the body into shock. This requires immediate medical treatment including an epinephrine injection.
When should you take Benadryl for a food allergic reaction?
Benadryl can be used to treat mild to moderate symptoms of an allergic reaction to food. For example, if you develop hives, itchy skin, or nasal congestion after eating something you are allergic to, Benadryl may help relieve those symptoms.
However, Benadryl is not sufficient treatment for severe allergic reactions involving swelling/trouble breathing or anaphylaxis. Epinephrine (such as an EpiPen injection) should be used first to treat those serious reactions. Benadryl can be used as a supplement to epinephrine but should NOT take the place of epinephrine in an emergency situation.
Some doctors may recommend taking Benadryl proactively before eating a food you are allergic to in order to prevent a reaction. However this is controversial and not universally recommended, as antihistamines like Benadryl may potentially mask the early symptoms of a severe reaction. Talk to your doctor before taking any pre-medication.
Proper dosage of Benadryl for food allergies
For treating mild allergy symptoms in adults, the standard oral Benadryl dosage is 25-50 mg every 4-6 hours as needed. Benadryl comes in 25 mg or 50 mg tablets. The maximum daily dose is 300 mg per day.
For children, consult your pediatrician for proper dosing based on weight. Children’s Benadryl comes in liquid form as well as dissolving tablets or meltaway strips that melt on the tongue. Always follow instructions on the label for children and do not exceed recommended doses.
Benadryl starts working within 30 minutes to 1 hour, with peak effect seen after about 3 hours. It can continue working for up to 8 hours. Be aware that Benadryl causes drowsiness – avoid driving or operating machinery after taking it.
Benadryl precautions
There are some important safety factors to consider before taking Benadryl:
- Pregnant women should consult their doctor before use
- Benadryl may exacerbate narrow-angle glaucoma and prostate issues
- Use caution if you have heart, liver, kidney, or thyroid disease
- May interact with other antihistamines, anticholinergics, MAO inhibitors
- Alcohol, sedatives, and sleep aids should be avoided when taking Benadryl
Benadryl is not considered addictive. However, there are rare reports of dependence when misused in very high quantities over a long period of time. Always take the lowest effective dose.
Benadryl alternatives
Other antihistamines similar to Benadryl that can be used for food allergy symptoms include:
| Antihistamine | Brand Names |
|---|---|
| Diphenhydramine | Benadryl, Unisom, Nytol, Sominex |
| Dimenhydrinate | Dramamine |
| Doxylamine | Unisom SleepTabs |
| Cetirizine | Zyrtec |
| Loratadine | Claritin |
| Fexofenadine | Allegra |
Some newer, longer-acting antihistamines include fexofenadine (Allegra) and cetirizine (Zyrtec). These tend to cause less drowsiness than Benadryl. However, in an emergency, Benadryl may act more quickly.
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about choosing the best antihistamine for your specific symptoms and needs. Make sure to disclose any other medications or supplements you are taking, as drug interactions are possible. Always carefully follow dosage guidelines.
Seeking emergency care for severe food reactions
If you or a loved one experiences severe symptoms of a food-allergy reaction such as:
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling of the lips, face, or throat
- Wheezing
- Chest tightness
- Hoarse voice
- Dizziness, fainting, or loss of consciousness
This indicates a medical emergency requiring epinephrine and a trip to the emergency room – even if symptoms resolve after epinephrine is given. Call 911 or have someone drive you to emergency care immediately. These severe reactions can quickly become life-threatening.
Do not wait to see if Benadryl or other antihistamines relieve the symptoms – always use epinephrine first and get prompt medical care. Keep expired epinephrine devices on hand replaced so you are prepared for an emergency. Wear a medical alert bracelet and educate friends and family about how to recognize and respond to an allergic reaction.
Preventing allergic reactions
The most important way to manage food allergies is to avoid the problematic food(s). Read ingredient labels carefully, looking for allergen terminology. Be cautious when dining out. Cross-contamination is common.
If you have severe food allergies:
- Carry epinephrine auto-injectors with you at all times
- Wear a medical alert bracelet or necklace
- Inform friends and family about your allergies and emergency protocol
- Always have Benadryl available as a supplemental treatment
Early and regular introduction of potentially allergenic foods to infants may help promote tolerance and reduce risk of developing a food allergy. Talk to your pediatrician about appropriate timing and foods for your baby.
Be vigilant, take proper safety precautions, and react quickly if an allergic reaction occurs. With cautious management, those with food allergies can stay safe and healthy.
Conclusion
Benadryl can provide relief from mild allergy symptoms caused by food allergies through its effects as an antihistamine. However, it is not a substitute for epinephrine in the event of a severe reaction involving breathing difficulties, throat swelling, fainting, etc. In those emergency situations, always use epinephrine and seek immediate medical care – every second counts. Proper management of food allergies centers around avoidance, carrying emergency epinephrine, awareness of symptoms, and prompt treatment. Benadryl can play a helpful supplemental role in treating itching, rashes, runny nose, or other mild allergy symptoms after a reaction has occurred. With caution, those with food allergies can safely manage their condition and respond appropriately should an allergic reaction develop.