Diphenhydramine is the active ingredient behind many over‑the‑counter sleep aids and allergy pills. In South Africa you’ll see it listed on labels as Benadryl, Atarax or just “diphenhydramine”. It works by blocking histamine, the chemical that makes you itchy, watery eyes, or a runny nose. If you’ve ever taken a night‑time gummy to fall asleep, odds are it contained diphenhydramine.
When it comes to dosage, the standard adult dose for allergy relief is 25 mg to 50 mg every 4‑6 hours, not exceeding 300 mg a day. For occasional sleep, 50 mg taken 30 minutes before bed is common. Kids under 12 should only use a pediatric formula and follow the label carefully – the dose is usually based on weight. Always read the package insert; the numbers can differ between liquid, tablet, and chewable forms.
Side effects are usually mild but worth knowing. The most common is drowsiness, which is why the drug is popular as a night‑time aid. You might also feel dry mouth, blurred vision, or a bit of constipation. In higher doses, dizziness, confusion, or a rapid heartbeat can appear. If any of these get severe or you notice trouble breathing, stop using it and call a doctor.
Buying diphenhydramine online is convenient, but not every site is trustworthy. Look for pharmacies that display a valid South African pharmacy licence (an “A‑Pharm” registration number). The website should require a prescription for higher‑strength products – if it doesn’t, that’s a red flag. Check customer reviews on independent forums, not just the site’s own testimonial page.
Price can be tempting, but ultra‑cheap offers often hide counterfeit pills. Compare a few reputable retailers, and pick the one that offers clear contact details, a physical address, and a secure https connection. When the product arrives, inspect the packaging: genuine meds have a batch number, expiry date, and clear labelling.
Never mix diphenhydramine with alcohol or other sedatives – the drowsiness can become dangerous, especially if you need to drive. If you’re already on antidepressants, antihistamines, or medications for Parkinson’s disease, talk to a pharmacist first; interactions can happen.
Store the tablets in a cool, dry place away from children. If you have glaucoma, asthma, or an enlarged prostate, diphenhydramine might worsen those conditions, so a quick chat with your doctor is wise. Finally, don’t use it as a daily sleep aid for weeks on end. Your body can build tolerance, and you might need a stronger prescription later.
In short, diphenhydramine is a handy antihistamine that works well for occasional allergy bursts or brief insomnia. Stick to the recommended dose, buy from a licensed South African pharmacy, and watch out for interactions. With these basics, you can use diphenhydramine safely and get the relief you need without surprises.