Allen asked
I have been taking Emetrol. Is it safe to take with Benadryl?
Answer
There is no current evidence of a drug interaction between Emetrol and Benadryl. They are considered safe to take together.
Benadryl (Diphenhydramine)
Benadryl is a first-generation antihistamine that is most commonly used to treat allergic reactions, like rashes and anaphylaxis. Benadryl is generally well tolerated but can causes certain side effects, such as:
- Sedation
- Constipation
- Urinary retention.
As Benadryl can cause sedation, it is often used as a sleep aid for those having difficulty falling asleep. Since this medication can cause sedation and confusion, it is not recommended for use in the elderly population per the Beer’s criteria, since it increases the risk of falls.
Benadryl has been found to cause excitation in younger children and they should be monitored closely when they use Benadryl for toxicity symptoms.
Emetrol
Emetrol is a combination of:
- Fructose
- Dextrose
- Orthophosphoric acid
The above ingredients are used to treat upset stomach and nausea.
Emetrol works on the stomach by decreasing muscle contraction. This medication if fairly benign as it is a compilation of sugars. It is important for diabetic patients to monitor their blood sugars if they are using this medication as it can cause an increase in blood sugar. To make this medication more tolerable and easier to drink, it is recommended that it be chilled or poured over ice. If symptoms do not improve with an hour of treatment, patients should seek medical attention for further medical treatment.
Summary
- There is no interaction between Benadryl (diphenhydramine) and Emetrol