Key takeaways
- Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is not safe for children under age 2 years, and children ages 2 to 5 years should only use it if directed by a doctor.
- Common side effects of Benadryl in young children include drowsiness, hyperactivity, agitation, and dizziness.
- For children ages 6 years and older, the recommended dose is 5 mL to 10 mL of liquid or 1 tablet every 4 to 6 hours, with no more than 6 doses in 24 hours.
Most caregivers have a few medications at home for when their baby or toddler is unwell. One popular medication is Children’s Benadryl, an over-the-counter (OTC) medication used to reduce allergy symptoms.
Common triggers of allergic reactions in children include:
- pollen
- dust
- pet dander
- foods
- medications
Benadryl is a first-generation antihistamine containing diphenhydramine, which has more of a sedative effect than newer antihistamines, such as cetirizine (Zyrtec), loratadine (Claritin), and fexofenadine (Allegra). Benadryl can also cause other harmful side effects in children of all ages.
Benadryl is not suitable for children under age 2 years and only suitable for children ages 2 to 5 years if directed by a doctor.
This article explains how to use children’s Benadryl safely and its potential side effects.
The short answer is no.
Benadryl contains diphenhydramine, a type of antihistamine. Our bodies produce histamine in response to an allergen, which causes symptoms like swelling, itching, a runny nose, and congestion. Antihistamines dampen that response and temporarily relieve symptoms.
The
Benadryl is generally recommended for children ages 6 years and older. The product label also states that children between ages 2 and 5 years should not use Benadryl unless directed by a doctor.
Benadryl is available in several forms, including:
- liquid
- chewable tablets
As with any medication, always read the label before use. Here is a table of the recommended dosages of Benadryl for children and adults:
| Weight of Child | Liquid suspension | Tablets |
|---|---|---|
| Adults and children 12 years and older | 10 mL to 20 mL (2 x 10 mL) | 1 to 2 tablets |
| Children ages 6 to 11 years | 5 mL to 10 mL | 1 tablet |
| Children ages 2 to 5 years | do not use unless directed by a doctor | do not use |
| Children under age 2 years | do not use | do not use |
A child ages 6 years and older can have Benadryl every 4 to 6 hours, but they must not have more than 6 doses in 24 hours.
If your doctor recommends a different dosage, follow their advice.
For children 2 years and older, a topical product like Benadryl Itch Cooling Spray could be useful for minor skin irritations, such as insect bites or itchy rashes. Don’t use this on a child under 2 years unless directed by a doctor.
Benadryl makes children sleepy, but never use it as a sleep aid.
The most common side effect of Benadryl in young children is drowsiness. However, in some children, it has the opposite effect, making them hyperactive and agitated.
Benadryl can also make children dizzy or unsteady on their feet, so they shouldn’t engage in activities like riding a scooter or using a climbing frame.
The following serious side effects have been
- fast heart rate
- hallucinations
- dilated pupils
- seizures
Safety
- Never give a child Benadryl alongside another medication containing diphenhydramine or another antihistamine.
- Always ask a doctor or pharmacist for advice before giving Benadryl to a young child.
- Keep Benadryl out of reach of children to prevent them from accidentally consuming it.
Benadryl is designed for short-term use, such as a one-off allergic reaction to an insect bite.
If your child has seasonal allergies, your doctor might
Depending on your child’s age, weight, and allergies, possible options include:
- cetirizine (children’s Zyrtec)
- loratadine (children’s Claritin)
- fexofenadine (children’s Allegra)
Children’s Benadryl is not suitable for children under age 2 years. Children between ages 2 and 5 years can only use it if directed to do so by a doctor.
Benadryl contains the active ingredient diphenhydramine, which can cause drowsiness, hyperactivity, agitation, dizziness, or more serious side effects.
Always consult a doctor or pharmacist before giving a young child any type of antihistamine product. They can suggest the type and dose that’s safe for your child.
Disclaimer: While Healthline strives for factual, comprehensive, and current information, this article is not a substitute for a licensed healthcare professional’s expertise. Always consult a doctor before taking or discontinuing any medication. Drug information is subject to change and may not cover all uses, directions, precautions, warnings, interactions, reactions, or adverse effects. The lack of a warning does not guarantee a drug’s safety, effectiveness, or appropriateness for all patients or specific uses. Learn more about our approach to content integrity.