Hello and welcome to Healthcare Magic. Thanks for your query.

Benadryl contains the chemical substance called diphenhydramine, which is an anti-histamine. Long-term use of Benadryl can be associated with physiological as well as psychological dependence and hence, there can be withdrawal symptoms while stopping.

The physiological withdrawal symptoms are mostly due to a 'rebound' effect from the body which has gotten used to the continuously high levels of anti-histamines. So, there can be symptoms such as generalised itching, watering of the eyes, nasal stuffiness and most importantly, sleeplessness. The psychological symptoms of withdrawal can be 'craving' for the substance, anxiety and restlessness.

The good news is that usually, these symptoms are not severe and subside within a few days and no medication is particularly necessary to counter these withdrawal symptoms.

Wish you all the best.

Regards,
Dr. Jonas Sundarakumar
Consultant Psychiatrist

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Hello again,

Withdrawal symptoms are most prominent only during the first week, it may take another week or so to completely subside. So, I think it should be okay to give a week's time to see if you can manage on your own. In case, your sleeplessness persists even after a week, then you can see your doctor for medication. There are certain non-addictive medication (like Zolpidem, Melatonin, etc.) which can be used for a short period till your normal sleep pattern gets re-established.

Following strict "sleep hygiene" techniques can be quite helpful in dealing with any kind of sleep problem:

- Fix a specific bedtime and an awakening time. Do not allow bedtime and awakening time to drift.
- Avoid napping during the day.
- Avoid coffee, tea or any caffeinated drinks or alcohol 4 hours before bedtime.
- Avoid heavy, spicy, or sugary foods for dinner. Have a gap of at least 1 hour between dinner and bedtime.
- Exercise regularly, preferably in the early evening, at least 4 hours before bedtime.
- Set up a comfortable environment which is dark, quiet and disturbance-free. Block out all distracting noise, and eliminate as much light as possible.
- Reserve the bed for sleep only. Don't use the bed for studying, working or for other rectreational activities.
- Try a light snack before bed. Warm milk and foods high in the amino acid tryptophan, such as bananas, may help you to sleep.
- Practice relaxation techniques before bed. Relaxation techniques such as yoga, XXXXXXX breathing and others may help relieve anxiety and reduce muscle tension.
- Don't take your worries to bed. Leave your worries about studies, work, daily life, etc., behind when you go to bed. Some people find it useful to assign a "worry period" during the evening or late afternoon to deal with these issues.
- Establish a pre-sleep ritual. Pre-sleep rituals, such as a warm bath or a few minutes of reading, can help you sleep.

Regards,
Dr. Jonas Sundarakumar
Consultant Psychiatrist

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