-
ClassyFire Ontology
Click to view/hide 3D structure
| Toxicity Summary |
|---|
| Link to the Distributed Structure-Searchable Toxicity (DSSTox) Database |
| Overdose is expected to result in effects similar to the adverse effects that are ordinarily associated with the use of diphenhydramine, including drowsiness, hyperpyrexia, and anticholinergic effects, among others [L5266, L5269, L5281, L5287, F3394]. Additional symptoms during overdose may include mydriasis, fever, flushing, agitation, tremor, dystonic reactions, hallucinations and ECG changes [L5287]. Large overdose may cause rhabdomyolysis, convulsions, delirium, toxic psychosis, arrhythmias, coma and cardiovascular collapse [L5287]. Moreover, with higher doses, and particularly in children, symptoms of CNS excitation including hallucinations and convulsions may appear; with massive doses, coma or cardiovascular collapse may follow [F3394]. Although diphenhydramine has been in widespread use for many years without ill consequence, it is known to cross the placenta and has been detected in breast milk [F3394]. This medication should therefore only be used when the potential benefit of treatment to the mother exceeds any possible hazards to the developing fetus or suckling infant [F3394]. Pharmacokinetic studies indicate no major differences in the distribution or elimination of diphenhydramine compared to younger adults [F3394]. Nevertheless, diphenhydramine should be used with caution in the elderly, who are more likely to experience adverse effects [L5287]. Avoid use in elderly patients with confusion [L5287]. The results of a review on the use of diphenhydramine in renal failure suggest that in moderate to severe renal failure, the dose interval should be extended by a period dependent on Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) [F3394]. After intravenous administration of 0.8 mg/kg diphenhydramine, a prolonged half-life was noted in patients with chronic liver disease which correlated with the severity of the disease [F3394]. However, the mean plasma clearance and apparent volume of distribution were not significantly affected [F3394]. LD50=500 mg/kg (orally in rats). Considerable overdosage can lead to myocardial infarction (heart attack), serious ventricular dysrhythmias, coma and death. |
| Source: DrugBank or Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB) |