I overdosed on Benadryl and I feel lightheaded. When will I feel normal?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a healthy young boy. It has been two weeks since I overdosed on Benadryl and I still feel lightheaded, and everything is a dream.

The dose I took was 500mg. I also get random confusion spells.

When will I feel normal?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Benadryl consists of Diphenhydramine and the drug is an antihistamine. In high doses, it causes side effects like blurred vision, dry mouth, confusion, delirium, and severe sedation. In very high doses, this may also result in death. So, I would advise you to please avoid overdoses in the future.

Usually, the toxicity symptoms reduce in about a week, and individuals recover, but mild forms of toxicity symptoms like confusion, drowsiness, dizziness, and restlessness may persist even for up to four weeks.

So, try to relax; such episodes of restlessness may occur for some time. If symptoms are causingimpairment in functioning, then low-dose anti-anxiety drugs like Benzodiazepines such as Clonazepam or Alprazolam can help. These drugs would reduce any anxiety and confusion. You should take these drugs with a proper prescription only. Avoid alcohol, excess tea or coffee for a few days.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

These symptoms occurred probably because of the anticholinergic side effects of Benadryl. This may persist for a few days, with confusion and a dreamlike state. With proper relaxation therapy and exercise, you will improve.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.