A 15-year-old girl has died after reportedly taking part in the dangerous "Benadryl challenge," a social media trend that medical experts warn can lead to severe health consequences. Leah Presson was left with "zero brain activity" following seizures that occurred shortly after she ingested the medication.
Her father, Richard Presson, confirmed her passing after she had been "fighting for life" since experiencing the seizures. The family had held onto hope when she was initially pronounced brain dead on June 14.
The "Benadryl challenge" encourages participants to consume large quantities of the antihistamine diphenhydramine, commonly known as Benadryl, in an attempt to induce hallucinations. This trend first gained attention in 2020 and has resurfaced in recent weeks. Medical professionals caution that ingesting the medication in such doses can be life-threatening. In the United States, Benadryl is sold over the counter and is intended for individuals aged 18 and older.