Mar 28, 2018
jeremiah asked
Is benadryl a decongestant?
Answer
Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is a first generation antihistamine and is not classified as a decongestant. However, it does have significant drying effects on the nasal passages, which could potentially worsen or help to ease congestion, depending on the individual.
Benadryl, as well as other antihistamines, are often given in combination with a decongestant to treat symptoms of allergy and congestion. Common decongestant/antihistamine combination include:
- Allega-D
- Claritin-D
- Zyrtec-D
- Benadryl-D (Also known as Benadryl Congestion)
If you are looking for a decongestant only product, over the counter decongestants include:
- Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE)
- Pseudophedrine (Sudafed)
- Oxymetolazone (Afrin)
Summary
- Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is not classified as a decongestant. When taken by mouth, it tends to have the effect of drying nasal passages.
