Diphenhydramine Topical Description

Generic Name : DIPHENHYDRAMINE TOPICAL

Pronunciation : (dye fen hye' dra meen)

Trade Name(s) : Benadryl

Why it is prescribed: Diphenhydramine, an antihistamine, is used to relieve the itching of insect bites, sunburns, bee stings, poison ivy, poison oak, and minor skin irritation.

When it is to be taken: Diphenhydramine topical is available without prescription. It is used three or four times a day. Follow the instructions on the label and package, and ask your doctor to explain any part that you do not understand. Do not apply this drug more often or apply more doses in a 24- hour period than as directed on the label.

How it should be taken: Diphenhydramine topical comes in the form of cream, lotion, and spray to be applied to the skin. Avoid contact of the drug with mucous membranes such as the eyes, vagina, and rectum.

Special Instruction :
1. If your skin condition worsens or persists for more than seven days, stop using diphenhydramine and contact your doctor.
2. If you forget to take a dose, apply the missed dose as soon as you remember it and apply any remaining doses for that day at evenly spaced intervals. However, if you remember a missed dose near the time for your next dose, apply only the scheduled dose. Do not apply a double dose.

Side Effects : Skin rash, sunburn, increased sensitivity to sunlamps and sunlight. Contact your doctor

Other Precautions :
1. Do not apply diphenhydramine on chickenpox or measles and do not use it on a child younger than two years of age unless directed to do so by a doctor.
2. Diphenhydramine spray is flammable. Do not expose it to open flame or a lighted cigarette.

Storage Conditions :
1. Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of the reach of children.
2. Store it at room temperature.