Daily OTC Pearl: ZzzQuil

Indication: Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine used to relieve symptoms of allergy, hay fever, and the common cold.

Insight:

• This medication works by blocking a certain natural substance (histamine) that the body makes during an allergic reaction. Its drying effects on such symptoms as watery eyes and runny nose are caused by blocking acetylcholine.
• Take the tablet, capsule, or liquid form by mouth with or without food. Measure liquid forms of this medication using a special measuring cup or spoon.
• Adverse effects can include drowsiness, dizziness, constipation, stomach upset, blurred vision, or dry mouth, nose or throat.
• To relieve dry mouth, suck hard candy or ice chips, chew gum, drink water, or use a saliva substitute.
• Before taking diphenhydramine, pharmacists should know whether the patient is allergic to ZzzQuil or dimenhydrinate. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems

References

• ZzzQuil Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing - WebMD
• zzzquil - Google Search