America’s youth have been increasingly abusing common over-the-counter medications, according to poison center records.A health advisory from America’s Poison Centers, representing 53 poison centers across the country, alerted a "concerning rise" in cases of diphenhydramine abuse among teens ages 13 to 19.Diphenhydramine is commonly found in allergy and sleep medications such as Benadryl and Zzzquil, as mentioned in the advisory.PEOPLE TAKING COMMON SLEEP DRUG MAY NOT REALIZE THEY'RE TOO IMPAIRED TO DRIVE, STUDY FINDSFrom 2024 to 2025, the total exposure to any substance among teens in this age group reportedly increased by 5.1%.But cases involving diphenhydramine alone increased more rapidly, from 10,068 to 13,284 cases, a 32% spike.Thirteen percent of diphenhydramine cases in 2026 have been linked to intentional abuse, an increase from 7.3% in 2020.(iStock)The trend appears to be continuing into 2026, as the first five months saw 6,179 diphenhydramine-only cases in teens — more than double the prior year.According to America’s Poison Centers, the exposure appears to be driven by recreational misuse rather than accidental over-medication.
Thirteen percent of cases in 2026 were linked to intentional abuse, up from 7.3% in 2020.CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTERTaking diphenhydramine improperly or in large amounts can affect the brain and heart, and can lead to serious or life-threatening effects, the advisory warned.Diphenhydramine is commonly found in over-the-counter allergy and sleep medications.(iStock)Some symptoms of diphenhydramine poisoning include drowsiness, agitation, fast heart rate, nausea, vomiting, hallucinations, seizures, dangerous heart rhythm and loss of consciousness.To avoid overexposure and complications, America’s Poison Centers advises the public to store all medications safely, up high, and out of reach of kids and teens.
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