Hey Reddit, Washington Poison Center here. Last week we heard from a couple hospitals that they’ve anecdotally been treating an increasing number of teens who have overdosed on diphenhydramine (brand name Benadryl^TM). We looked at our call data for patients 13-19 years old, and sure enough we’re seeing a big increase. From what we can gather, this increase is linked to both intentional self-harm and substance misuse.

Here’s the data:

In 2025, we treated an average of 32 cases/month of adolescents ages 13 to 19 years with diphenhydramine exposures. In the first three months of 2026, however, there has been an average of 52 cases/month.

Diphenhydramine overdoses currently account for approximately 10% of all cases in this age group, up from 5% in 2024.

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Key Facts

Diphenhydramine is a common over-the-counter drug found in many over-the-counter sleep aids, cough and cold medications, and allergy medications. It is safe when used as directed, but taking large amounts can be dangerous and potentially life-threatening.

Early signs of overdose include:

· Confusion

· Extreme drowsiness

· Agitation

· Dilated (large) pupils

· Flushed skin

Severe symptoms include:

· Hallucinations

· Seizures

· Dangerous heart problems

· Death

Symptoms can begin quickly and worsen over time.

Social media and online content have contributed to the perception of diphenhydramine as an accessible, low-cost way to get high. It is also being used by some youth as a means of self-harm, as it is readily available in many homes in large quantities.

What to Do in a Suspected Overdose

· Call 911 if someone has trouble breathing, has a seizure, or will not wake up.

· If they aren’t breathing and you cannot wake them up, administer naloxone (e.g., NARCAN®) if available. Even though diphenhydramine is not an opioid, use of multiple substances is possible.

· Call Washington Poison Center (1-800-222-1222) for immediate guidance if the person is awake and responsive.

How can you help prevent this?

1. Limit Access to Medication and Common Risks

· Lock up all prescription and over-the-counter medications.

· Use a medication lockbox, a locking toolbox, locking cabinet, safe, or any other secured storage area. If locking up all medication is too challenging, keep a small quantity accessible (for example, one week’s supply) and lock up the rest.

· Dispose of any expired, unused, or unneeded medications. In Washington, we have many locations all around the state that will dispose of your medications for free every day. Find a secure medicine return location near you.

· Store guns unloaded and locked up.

· Store toxic cleaners, pesticides, and chemicals in a locked cupboard.

2. Recognize Signs a Teen is Struggling

· They have had a low mood or significant sadness for more than two weeks

· Their eating habits or weight have changed noticeably

· Their sleep patterns and energy level have changed

· They seem withdrawn from friends and family

· Missing assignments, slipping grades, or skipping class

· Increased physical complaints like headaches and stomach aches (depression in teens is often experienced physically not just mentally and emotionally)

· Behavior changes that are unlike them

[Adapted from Crisis Connections]

3. Talk Openly About Suicide and Mental Health

If you’re concerned, ask directly about suicidal thoughts. Asking someone if they’re thinking about suicide does NOT put the idea in their head or increase their risk of attempting suicide. Evidence shows that asking can reduce risk because it provides an opportunity for the person to express their feelings, feel understood, and access help.

4. Connect youth with support

· 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

· Teen Link

· HearMeWA

· Teen Health Hub WA