At a glance
| Generic | diphenhydramine |
|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Diphenhydramine HCl 25 mg |
| Type | Oral antihistamine (pill), older type |
| Label uses | runny nose, sneezing, itchy, watery eyes, itching of the nose or throat, common cold symptoms |
| Nasal congestion on label | No |
| Drowsiness | Marked drowsiness |
| How often | Every 4 to 6 hours |
| Youngest age on label | 6 years |
| Maximum | 6 doses in 24 hours |
What it treats
The label says Benadryl temporarily relieves these symptoms due to hay fever or other upper respiratory allergies:
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Itching of the nose or throat
- Common cold symptoms
Dose by age
| Who | Label directions |
|---|---|
| Adults and children 12 and over | 1 to 2 tablets every 4 to 6 hours. Not more than 6 doses in 24 hours. |
| Children 6 to under 12 | 1 tablet every 4 to 6 hours. Not more than 6 doses in 24 hours. |
| Children under 6 | Do not use. |
Drowsiness
Marked drowsiness The label warns "marked drowsiness may occur", and that excitability may occur, especially in children.
Warnings on the label
- Do not use with any other product containing diphenhydramine, even one used on the skin.
- Do not use to make a child sleepy.
- Ask a doctor before use if you have glaucoma, a breathing problem such as emphysema or chronic bronchitis, or trouble urinating due to an enlarged prostate.
- Marked drowsiness may occur; excitability may occur, especially in children.
Benadryl is the only medicine here dosed every 4 to 6 hours rather than once a day.
Compare Benadryl with
Frequently asked questions
Is Benadryl non-drowsy?
The label warns "marked drowsiness may occur", and that excitability may occur, especially in children.
How often can you take Benadryl?
Every 4 to 6 hours. Maximum on the label: 6 doses in 24 hours.
Can children take Benadryl?
Adults and children 12 and over: 1 to 2 tablets every 4 to 6 hours. Not more than 6 doses in 24 hours. Children 6 to under 12: 1 tablet every 4 to 6 hours. Not more than 6 doses in 24 hours. Children under 6: Do not use.
Is generic diphenhydramine the same as Benadryl?
Store-brand products list their active ingredient on the Drug Facts label. If it says Diphenhydramine HCl 25 mg, it is the same medicine at the same strength. Check the label for other added ingredients.
Source
Benadryl Allergy Drug Facts label (OTCLabels, from DailyMed). Labeler: Diphenhydramine 25 mg label (R J General Corporation). Checked October 17, 2026. Labels change, so read the one on your box. This page summarizes the label and is not medical advice. How we check.