Sara asked
Can you take Benadryl at night if you are taking Norco (hydrocodone/acetaminophen) 10-325 and prednisone? I'm feeling itchy and I have fibromyalgia, Crohns and am being tested for lupus.
Answer
Hydrocodone containing products, such as Norco, should generally not be taken at the same as Benadryl (diphenhydramine).
Hydrocodone - Benadryl Interaction
Both hydrocodone and Benadryl are CNS (central nervous system) depressants. Using both together increases the risk of sedation and also increases the risk of rare, but serious side effects such as respiratory depression.
In fact, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) issued a drug safety communication regarding the combination of opioid medications, such as hydrocodone and CNS depressant drugs, like Benadryl. It states the combination should be avoided if possible.
However, the use of Benadryl and hydrocodone products is most likely safe if they are separated by an appropriate amount of time. While there certainly is variability by individual, the effects of hydrocodone generally last 4 to 6 hours and the effects of Benadryl will last 4 to 6 hours as well.
If you are taking Benadryl simply as a sleep aid, be sure to take it only in the evening, at least 4 to 6 hours after your last dose of hydrocodone to reduce the risk of additive sedation and serious side effects.
If you are looking for an allergy medication to use for itching, Claritin or Allegra are better choices in those who also take hydrocodone. They are classified as non-drowsy antihistamines and are generally considered safer to use than Benadryl.
There is no interaction between prednisone and Benadryl.
Summary
- Both Benadryl and hydrocodone are considered CNS (central nervous system) depressants.
- Combined use of hydrocodone and Benadryl should be avoided due to the risk of additive sedation and serious side effects such as respiratory depression.
- Benadryl should be taken at least 4 to 6 hours after your last dose of hydrocodone.
- For treatment of itching, Allegra or Claritin are better options than Benadryl in those who take hydrocodone.
