Although your OTC antihistamine medication can do the trick and make you fall asleep faster, it can have adverse effects. The McMaster University article noted that antihistamines can affect cognitive functions, such as school or work performance, and that an overdose can even lead to death. According to the Baylor College of Medicine, “antihistamines have side effects that include altered state of mind, urinary retention and dry mouth. Although these side effects are generally mild and well tolerated in young patients without other medical problems, they can pose a risk. , especially for the elderly. ‘
Furthermore, the antihistamines you use to improve your sleep may eventually have the opposite effect. “Using antihistamines can lead to sleep deprivation and other parasomnias. It can certainly occur with Benadryl, just like with other hypnotic drugs like Ambien,” assistant professor of medicine. Phillip Alapat, Managing director, said in an article on the Baylor College of Medicine website. Although antihistamines can help you fall asleep, the overall quality of sleep is often not very good, and the medication has its limits. “Using Benadryl or any antihistamine for sleep has no long-term benefit,” Alapat continued. “Most people develop a tolerance very quickly.” And to ensure you stay safe: If you take Tylenol with this, your liver is at risk, experts say.