These combinations are considered dangerous and should be avoided.
Note: The two substances potentiate each other strongly and unpredictably, and may rapidly lead to unconsciousness. They both increase each other's side effects such as ataxia, sedation, and CNS depression. Blackouts and memory loss are significantly increased. If the user falls unconscious while under the influence there is a severe risk of vomit aspiration if they are not placed in the recovery position. Alcohol may also increase the deliriant effects of diphenhydramine. It should also be noted if the individual consuming alcohol typically has a flushing response to alcohol, diphenhydramine may reduce the reaction and mask some of the effects of the alcohol.
Substances in these categories
Alcohol
Diphenhydramine
Sources
- Diphenhydramine - an overview (2024) — ScienceDirect
- Ethanol - an overview (2024) — ScienceDirect
- Antihistamine blockade of alcohol-induced flushing in orientals. Journal of Studies on Alcohol, 49(1), 16-20 (1988) — Miller, N. S., Goodwin, D. W., Jones, F. C., Gabrielli, W. F., Pardo, M. P., Anand, M. M., & Hall, T. B.
- Diphenhydramine. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing (2024) — Sicari, V., & Zabbo, C. P.
- Alcohol and Medication Interactions. Alcohol Research & Health, 23(1), 40-54 (1999) — Weathermon, R., & Crabb, D. W.
Interaction Matrix
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These drugs work together to cause an effect greater than the sum of its parts. They aren't likely to cause an adverse or undesirable reaction when used carefully.
Effects are additive. The combination is unlikely to cause any adverse or undesirable reaction beyond those that might ordinarily be expected from these drugs.
One substance may reduce or counteract some of the effects of the other.
These combinations are not usually physically harmful, but may produce undesirable effects. Use caution.
There is considerable risk of physical harm when combining these substances. Use extreme caution.
These combinations are considered dangerous and should be avoided.
The interactions between these substances are not well documented.