Benadryl for Dry Cough

Can Benadryl Treat Dry Cough?

Benadryl, aka Diphenhydramine, is a commonly used first-generation antihistamine. Benadryl is effective in treating a runny or blocked nose that is caused by allergies.

However, Benadryl is more than just an antihistamine. It is a cough suppressant. Diphenhydramine can inhibit the sensitivity of the cough reflex in the brain.

Yes: Benadryl is a cough suppressant. This makes it a good candidate for treating dry coughs.

No: Benadryl and other cough syrups may cause your throat to feel raw and dried out This is because as an antihistamine, it also dries out our mucus membranes.

No: Benadryl is not recommended for use in children because one of the side-effects is agitation and confusion in children.

No: Elderly people who use diphenhydramine frequently for chronic cough may experience aggravation of Alzheimer’s and dementia. Therefore, it makes sense to avoid long term use on older folks.

No: Dependency is one of the problems with using diphenhydramine. Therefore, you don’t want to take it continuously over a long period. On top of that, you may need higher doses over time as the cough suppressant effects may reduce over time.

Yes and No: Benadryl is a drowsy medication and are used off-label for sleep disorders. Side effects include drowsiness, dizziness unstable gait in the elderly. Diphenhydramine may also reduce alertness and concentration.