JeffereyMilner asked
I have a cold and have been taking Cold-Eeze to hopefully make it last only a few days. I am having trouble sleeping due my post-nasal drip. Is it safe to use Benadryl?
Answer
There is no drug interaction between Benadryl and Cold-Eeze. They may be taken together with no ill effects.
Cold-Eeze
The main active ingredient in Cold-EEZE is Zinc gluconate (although the box lists it as zincum gluconicum). It is an over the counter treatment for cold symptoms and is purported to shorten the duration of colds.
While its use remains somewhat controversial, some studies have found that the use of zinc at the onset of cold symptoms may reduce duration of colds. Zinc is an element that is found in nature and is believed to play a role in the immune system and in healing.
Supplementing Zinc when presenting with a cold is thought to be beneficial because it is believed that the zinc will boost the immune system into getting better at a quicker rate than if a person were just to let the virus run its course. For the most part, the use of Zinc is safe but there have been reports of altered taste perception while using.
Benadryl
Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is a sedating "first-generation" antihistamine. Although most commonly used for allergic reactions and insomnia, it can be used for general seasonal allergy symptoms as well such as a runny nose and post-nasal drip. It is especially effective for nighttime use as it can help to clear cold symptoms and make you fall asleep faster.
Summary
- Cold-Eeze can safely be taken with Benadryl. There is no drug interactions between them.
