America's youth are increasingly misusing common over-the-counter medications, with poison centers reporting a concerning rise in diphenhydramine abuse among teenagers aged 13 to 19. Diphenhydramine is an active ingredient found in medications such as Benadryl and ZzzQuil, used for allergies and sleep.
A health advisory issued by America's Poison Centers, which represents 53 poison centers nationwide, detailed a significant increase in cases involving this substance. Between 2020 and 2026, the total number of diphenhydramine-only cases among teens rose from 10,068 to 13,284, representing a 32% spike. This trend shows a continued acceleration into 2026, with the first five months recording 6,179 diphenhydramine-only cases, more than double the number from the previous year.
The advisory indicated that this exposure appears to be driven by recreational misuse rather than accidental over-medication. In 2026, 13% of diphenhydramine cases were linked to intentional abuse, a notable increase from 7.3% in 2020. This pattern appears to be amplified by social media trends and challenges that encourage unsafe use of medications.
Taking diphenhydramine improperly or in excessive amounts can lead to severe health effects impacting the brain and heart, potentially resulting in life-threatening outcomes. Symptoms of diphenhydramine poisoning can include drowsiness, agitation, rapid heart rate, nausea, vomiting, hallucinations, seizures, dangerous heart rhythms, and loss of consciousness.
America's Poison Centers advises the public to store all medications safely, out of reach of children and teens, and to follow label instructions carefully. The advisory also urges parents and guardians to discuss the risks of medication misuse with teenagers and to be aware of social media trends that might promote unsafe practices. Individuals who suspect misuse are advised to contact their local Poison Control Center immediately.
Kenvue, the manufacturer of Benadryl, stated that the "health and safety of people who use our products is our top priority." A spokesperson for the company described the social media trend promoting misuse as "extremely dangerous and should be stopped immediately." Kenvue reported efforts to collaborate with social media platforms to remove dangerous content and to educate the public on the safe use and storage of over-the-counter medicines containing diphenhydramine. They also provided steps to help prevent misuse, including reporting concerning content, storing medicines securely, and carefully following label instructions.
The Consumer Healthcare Products Association echoed these concerns, with Mary Leonard, SVP of communications and public affairs, emphasizing that "OTC medicines should never be used for recreational purposes." She noted that when used as directed, these medications are relied upon by millions for various health needs. The association highlighted that Drug Facts labels clearly communicate essential dosing instructions, warnings, and safety information to prevent misuse.