UMVA has learned that a disturbing trend is emerging among America's youth, with a significant increase in the abuse of common over-the-counter medications, particularly those containing diphenhydramine, found in allergy and sleep aids like Benadryl and Zzzquil.
The alarming rise in diphenhydramine abuse among teens aged 13 to 19 has prompted a health advisory, warning of a "concerning rise" in cases, with a 32% spike in reported exposures from 2024 to 2025, and a staggering increase in the first five months of 2026, with 6,179 cases, more than double the prior year.
According to information obtained by UMVA, the exposure appears to be driven by recreational misuse rather than accidental over-medication, with 13% of cases in 2026 linked to intentional abuse, up from 7.3% in 2020, highlighting the urgent need for awareness and education on the dangers of misusing these medications.
Taking diphenhydramine improperly or in large amounts can have devastating effects on the brain and heart, leading to serious or life-threatening consequences, including drowsiness, agitation, fast heart rate, nausea, vomiting, hallucinations, seizures, and loss of consciousness, emphasizing the importance of safe storage and proper use of these medications.
UMVA has gathered that experts are warning parents and caregivers to be vigilant and to talk to teens about the risks of misusing medications, including serious health effects and poisoning, and to be aware of social media trends or challenges that may encourage unsafe use of medications, in order to prevent further cases of diphenhydramine abuse.
In response to the growing concern, manufacturers and healthcare professionals are taking action to educate on the safe use and storage of over-the-counter medicines, including those with diphenhydramine, and are urging the public to report any suspected misuse to the local Poison Control Center immediately, in order to prevent misuse and ensure the safe use of these products.
As the situation continues to unfold, it is clear that the health and safety of America's youth are at risk, and it is imperative that parents, caregivers, and healthcare professionals work together to address this pressing issue and prevent further cases of diphenhydramine abuse, by promoting awareness, education, and safe practices.
