Recent data from America’s poison centers reveal a troubling trend: more teenagers are misusing common over-the-counter medications. The American Poison Centers issued a health advisory that highlights a “concerning increase” in diphenhydramine abuse among adolescents aged 13 to 19.
Diphenhydramine can be found in many allergy and sleep aids, such as Benadryl. The advisory indicates that between 2024 and 2025, overall substance exposure among this age group rose by 5.1%. Notably, diphenhydramine-related cases surged by 32%, climbing from 10,068 to 13,284 incidents.
In fact, early data suggests that the trend might be accelerating: in the first five months of 2026, there were already 6,179 cases, more than double from the previous year. The rise in misuse appears to be driven more by recreational use rather than accidental overdoses. Intentional abuse was reported in about 13% of cases last year, up from 7.3% in 2020.
The advisory warns that taking large or inappropriate doses of diphenhydramine can lead to serious health complications, impacting the brain and heart. Symptoms of poisoning can range from drowsiness and agitation to severe issues like hallucinations and loss of consciousness.
To minimize risks, the American Poison Center advises storing all medications out of reach of children and teens, ideally at a height that’s hard to access. It’s also crucial to follow label instructions carefully.
Parents are advised to talk with their teens about the dangers of drug misuse. This includes discussing the potential health risks and addiction concerns, as well as being vigilant regarding social media trends that might glamorize unsafe practices.
If you suspect that someone has misused medications, it is essential to contact your local poison control center immediately.
Kenvue, the manufacturer of Benadryl, expressed concern about the rise in dangerous social media influences promoting diphenhydramine misuse and stated their commitment to work with platforms to remove harmful content. They emphasize the importance of safe medication use and storage.
Mary Leonard from the Consumer Healthcare Products Association reinforced that OTC medications should not be used for recreational purposes, stating that millions rely on these products when used properly. Misuse can pose serious health threats, and proper dosing and safety instructions are clearly outlined on product labels.
Kenvue outlined several steps for preventing abuse, including reporting harmful content on social media, keeping medications securely stored, and educating children on safe usage.
For those looking for more information, resources on appropriate dosing and safety can be found on Benadryl’s official website. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for any questions about medications.
