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Diphenhydramine Topical Gel (DIPHENHYDRAMINE - TOPICAL)

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

  • itching
  • skin irritation

Brand Name(s): Benadryl

Generic Name: Diphenhydramine

Instructions

DO NOT take this medicine by mouth.

Apply the medicine to the affected area.

Wash the area first before applying medicine.

Keep the medicine at room temperature. Avoid heat and direct light.

This medicine should only be used on the skin.

Avoid getting the medicine in the eyes, nose, or mouth. Wash the medicine off your fingers after applying it.

Wash your hands before and after handling this medicine.

Wash your hands after using this medicine unless your hands are part of the area being treated.

If medicine gets in your eyes, rinse well with cool water.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

You may stop using this medicine if you no longer have symptoms.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

This medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

Do not use this medicine with any other medicines containing diphenhydramine. This includes medicines taken by mouth or used on the skin.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Contact your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or worsens after 7 days of using this medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • burning or stinging

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • agitated feeling or trouble sleeping
  • confusion
  • feeling of heat or flushing
  • hallucinations (unusual thoughts, seeing or hearing things that are not real)
  • unsteadiness while walking
  • difficulty or discomfort urinating

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.

 
 

PeaceHealth endeavors to provide comprehensive health care information, however some topics in this database describe services and procedures not offered by our providers or within our facilities because they do not comply with, nor are they condoned by, the ethics policies of our organization.