How Long After Taking Benadryl Can You Drink Alcohol Reddit?
Taking Benadryl and alcohol together can be dangerous, as both substances can cause drowsiness and impair coordination. In the worst cases, this combination can lead to respiratory depression and even death… So how long should you wait after taking Benadryl before drinking alcohol?
Benadryl and Alcohol: An Overview
Benadryl is an antihistamine that is used to treat allergies, hay fever, and other conditions. It works by blocking the effects of histamine, a chemical that is released by the body in response to allergens. Alcohol is a depressant that can slow down the central nervous system. When taken together, Benadryl and alcohol can have additive effects, leading to increased drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination.
How Long to Wait?
The amount of time you should wait after taking Benadryl before drinking alcohol depends on the dose of Benadryl you took and how your body reacts to the medication. In general, it is best to wait at least 6 hours after taking Benadryl before drinking alcohol. However, if you are taking a higher dose of Benadryl or if you are particularly sensitive to the medication, you may need to wait longer.
Effects of Benadryl and Alcohol
The effects of Benadryl and alcohol can vary from person to person. Some people may experience only mild side effects, such as drowsiness or dizziness. However, others may experience more severe side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, or confusion. Drinking alcohol while taking Benadryl can also increase the risk of serious side effects, such as respiratory depression and death.
Tips for Safe Use
If you are taking Benadryl, it is important to follow these tips to avoid dangerous interactions with alcohol:
- Wait at least 6 hours after taking Benadryl before drinking alcohol.
- Start with a small amount of alcohol and see how you react.
- Avoid drinking alcohol if you are taking a high dose of Benadryl or if you are particularly sensitive to the medication.
- Never mix Benadryl with other sedatives, such as opioids or benzodiazepines.
- If you experience any side effects from taking Benadryl and alcohol, stop drinking and seek medical attention immediately.
Expert Advice
“Mixing Benadryl and alcohol is a dangerous combination,” says Dr. David Juurlink, a clinical pharmacologist at the University of Toronto. “Both substances can cause drowsiness and impair coordination, and when taken together, the effects can be additive. In some cases, this combination can lead to respiratory depression and even death.”
FAQ
Q: How long does Benadryl stay in your system?
A: Benadryl has a half-life of about 12 hours, which means that it takes about 12 hours for the body to eliminate half of the drug. However, the effects of Benadryl can last for up to 24 hours.
Q: Can I take Benadryl and alcohol if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
A: No. Benadryl is not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Alcohol is also not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Q: What are the symptoms of a Benadryl overdose?
A: The symptoms of a Benadryl overdose can include drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, nausea, vomiting, seizures, and respiratory depression. In severe cases, a Benadryl overdose can be fatal.
Conclusion
Taking Benadryl and alcohol together can be dangerous and even deadly. It is important to wait at least 6 hours after taking Benadryl before drinking alcohol. If you are taking a high dose of Benadryl or if you are particularly sensitive to the medication, you may need to wait longer. If you experience any side effects from taking Benadryl and alcohol, stop drinking and seek medical attention immediately.
Are you interested in learning more about the effects of Benadryl and alcohol? Check out these resources:
- The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA): https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/
- The Food and Drug Administration (FDA): https://www.fda.gov/
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): https://www.cdc.gov/
