A health advisory from America’s Poison Centers has alerted a “concerning rise” in cases of diphenhydramine abuse among teens ages 13 to 19. Diphenhydramine is commonly found in allergy and sleep medications such as Benadryl and Zzzquil.

Rise in Abuse Cases

From 2024 to 2025, the total exposure to any substance among teens in this age group reportedly increased by 5.1%. However, cases involving diphenhydramine alone increased more rapidly, from 10,068 to 13,284 cases, a 32% spike. The trend appears to be continuing into 2026, as the first five months saw 6,179 diphenhydramine-only cases in teens — more than double the prior year.

According to America’s Poison Centers, the exposure appears to be driven by recreational misuse rather than accidental over-medication. Thirteen percent of cases in 2026 were linked to intentional abuse, up from 7.3% in 2020.

Warning and Prevention

Taking diphenhydramine improperly or in large amounts can affect the brain and heart, and can lead to serious or life-threatening effects. Symptoms of diphenhydramine poisoning include drowsiness, agitation, fast heart rate, nausea, vomiting, hallucinations, seizures, dangerous heart rhythm, and loss of consciousness.

America’s Poison Centers advises the public to store all medications safely, up high, and out of reach of kids and teens. Label instructions should be followed carefully. Parents are also encouraged to talk with teens about the risks of misusing medications, including serious health effects and poisoning.

Benadryl manufacturer Kenvue commented that the “health and safety of people who use our products is our top priority.” The company is working with social media platform safety teams to remove dangerous posts and help stop this behavior from spreading.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.