The Benadryl Challenge and Dangerous Chemistry
Social media teen trends may come and go but some can have life-altering effects. Somehow, parents can help teens realize that just because they’ve been “challenged” to do something, well, that doesn’t mean it’s a fantastic idea.
This dangerous TikTok social media challenge resurfaces in the news every few years when another teenager overdoses during the “Benadryl Challenge.”
Teens Consume Massive Amounts of Allergy Medicine
First shown on TikTok in 2020, the aim was to take too much over-the-counter Benadryl (diphenhydramine, a common antihistamine) to induce hallucinations, which are then recorded and posted online.
While it’s true that diphenhydramine can affect consciousness and cause hallucinations, overdosing can also cause heart rhythm problems and breathing issues. Experts at Via Linda Behavioral Health in Scottsdale, Arizona, understand that teen interest in social media challenges like this may correspond with feelings of sadness, depression and boredom.
And that may be the bigger issue…
What parents should know about the Benadryl Challenge
Understanding why this challenge is so risky may start with the drug. In recommended doses, diphenhydramine is an over-the-counter antihistamine commonly used to treat allergies, itching, hives and mild inflammation. Histamine is a chemical involved in allergic reactions.
One of the things parents and caregivers might do is remove temptation in the home. Adults can add deterrents for living with substance use issues by being good role models.
To safeguard your child, you might also try:
- Locking up prescription drugs and OTC medications
- Reading more labels and tracking ingredients and dosing
- Talking to kids about dangerous social media behaviors
Overdosing on common allergy medication
When taken as directed, the medication is largely safe and effective. Problems begin when adventure-seekers take significantly more than recommended doses.
Benadryl also affects other brain neurotransmitters in large doses, and in doing so, may affect heart function, breathing and muscle control. When excessive amounts of diphenhydramine circulate in the blood, it can cause debilitating side effects, including:
- Blurred vision
- Dizziness
- Severe confusion
- Agitation and mood swings
- Vivid hallucinations
- Panic and paranoia
Mental health and the Benadryl Challenge
If your adolescent or teen has underlying behavioral health conditions or lives with a dual diagnosis, dangerous behaviors like the Benadryl Challenge can be magnified.
Self-medicating with medications (even if they’re over the counter) can cause serious complications over time, including:
- Seizures
- Coma
- Death
Communication tools that might help a teen avoid the Benadryl Challenge in the future can include nonjudgemental family counseling, outpatient therapies and possible medication monitoring.
Contact Via Linda Behavioral Hospital
Call 480-618-5400 for information or schedule a confidential assessment. Via Linda Behavioral Health serves Arizona, offering inpatient and outpatient behavioral health treatment and substance use support for teens and adults.
If you or a loved one is experiencing an urgent mental health crisis, call 988 or go to the nearest emergency department. For physical health emergencies, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
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