Benadryl

The generic name is Diphenhydramine. This is an "anti-histamine" medication. During an allergic reaction, histamine is released into the blood stream by certain cells called Mast cells. The histamine is responsible for much of the itching, sneezing, swelling or rash that occurs during a reaction. The "anti- histamine" blocks these nuisances.

Benadryl is great for just about any cause of itching: insect bites, bee stings, poison ivy, chicken pox, and allergy. It is also good for the swelling that can sometimes accompany these reactions. Benadryl will also relieve runny nose and sneezing whether from a cold or allergy.

Give 0.5 mg per pound every 4-6 hours. (See dosing chart) The package doesn't give a dose for under 2 years of age and we don't recommend use under the age of one. The package also gives rather vague doses (one dose for a 2-6 year-old), often resulting in under-dosing. I prefer to calculate the dose by the child's weight. The dose is about 0.5 mg per pound of bodyweight (or 1.25 mg per kilogram). For example, a 25 lb child would get 12.5 mg (25lb X 0.5mg/lb = 12.5mg). This is exactly one teaspoon of liquid or one chewable tablet. This dose can be given every four to six hours. Hint: the dose for Benadryl and Acetaminophen (Tylenol) are the same for the liquid or chewables, i.e. if a child gets one teaspoon of Tylenol, then his dose of Benadryl is also one teaspoon.

• Antihistamines can cause drowsiness, dry mouth, and sometimes, upset stomach.
• Instead of drowsiness, some children will have an opposite effect and get "revved-up". This is more of a nuisance than a medical concern.
• Antihistamines can be given with any antibiotic, Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen, decongestants and cough suppressants.
• Should not be given for Croup (dries the air passages).

• Liquid 12.5 mg per 5ml
• Chewables 12.5 mg
• Tablets 25 mg

Dose every 4-6 hours: