Do you consistently reach for Benadryl to help with allergies or get a better night's sleep? You are not alone, as it is a common and easily accessible over-the-counter medication, but did you know that long-term use of antihistamines like Benadryl could have serious consequences for your brain health? We want to share some of the lesser-known risks and things you should be aware of about long-term antihistamine use.
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The Link Between Antihistamines and Dementia
Are antihistamines such as Benadryl safe for long-term use? Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is a popular antihistamine often used to relieve allergy symptoms. However, many people take it for its side effect–drowsiness–to help with insomnia. While it may seem like a harmless sleep aid, research suggests it could be doing more harm than good in the long run.
Benadryl and similar drugs are not just antihistamines; they are also anticholinergic, which means that they block acetylcholine, a key neurotransmitter that helps your brain cells communicate. Acetylcholine is crucial for memory, retention, and cognitive function. Caring for these aspects of brain health is crucial as we age, and the elderly may especially notice a faster decline when participating in long-term antihistamine use.
Some recent studies suggest that the longer someone takes antihistamines, and the higher the dose, the greater their risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. These anticholinergic medications interfere with the brain’s ability to form connections, which over time can contribute to cognitive decline.
Should You Stop Taking Benadryl?
If you occasionally use Benadryl for allergy relief, there is no need to panic. But if you regularly rely on it, especially as a sleep aid, you might want to reconsider this long-term antihistamine use due to its effects on brain health and function. Instead of Benadryl, here are a couple of suggestions and safer alternatives:
- For allergies: Try non-sedating antihistamines like loratadine (Claritin) or cetirizine (Zyrtec).
- For sleep: Focus on improving sleep hygiene. Try limiting screen time before bed, keeping a consistent bedtime, and taking natural supplements like melatonin.
The bottom line: Medications that seem harmless can have unexpected long-term effects. If you're using antihistamines frequently, especially for sleep, it’s worth discussing safer options with your doctor. Your brain health depends on it!
Brain Mapping & Neurofeedback at Dr. Autoimmune
If you want to get to the root issue of your insomnia, schedule a consultation with us! We provide brain mapping and neurofeedback services that can help pinpoint weaknesses and asses your brain health. This way we can understand the “why” behind your difficulty sleeping and helps us come up with a personalized solution that eliminates long-term antihistamine use.
We would love to speak with you and answer any questions you may have! Reach out to our functional medicine specialists today to schedule an initial consultation. You deserve to get the answers– let us help you transform your health from the inside out!
