The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning that taking higher than recommended doses of the common over-the-counter (OTC) allergy medicine diphenhydramine (Benadryl) can lead to serious heart problems, seizures, coma, or even death.

Symptomatic relief must be considered when the cough interferes with the patient’s daily activities and this is effectively treated with antitussive preparations which are available as combinations of codeine or dextromethorphan with antihistamines, decongestants and expectorants Antitussives are used for effective …

Diphenhydramine, a commonly-used first-generation antihistamine in the US, is rightfully also classified as an antitussive (cough suppressant) in the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) OTC monograph.

Some side effects that may occur with long-term use include:

• constipation.
• blurred vision.
• memory problems and dementia (especially in seniors)
• anxiety.
• dependence.

A. It’s not a good idea. Benadryl Allergy (diphenhydramine and generic) and similar first-generation antihistamines used to treat allergy symptoms, such as chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton Allergy and generic), shouldn’t be taken for long periods of time.

For people who take an antihistamine such as Benadryl for a cold or allergies, drowsiness is often a welcome side effect. But a Baylor College of Medicine sleep expert cautions against turning to this type of medication as a sleep aid.

In general, you should take melatonin 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime. It typically takes 30 minutes to start working. Melatonin can stay in your body for about 5 hours, though it depends on factors like your age and overall health status.

In adults, the standard dose used in studies ranges between 1 and 10 mg, although there isn’t currently a definitive “best” dosage. It’s believed doses in the 30-mg range may be harmful. In general, it’s better to start low and move up slowly and carefully if you see encouraging results.

Research has found that taking melatonin in low doses is the most effective way to promote sleep if you are experiencing restlessness or insomnia. Recommended doses of melatonin are from 0.5 mg up to 3 mg, which are adequate to promote sleep or treat jet lag.

If you require a little extra help to get a good night’s sleep, consider trying the following 9 natural sleep-promoting supplements.

1. Melatonin. Melatonin is a hormone that your body produces naturally, and it signals to your brain that it’s time to sleep ( 7 ).
2. Valerian root.
3. Magnesium.
4. Lavender.
5. Passionflower.
6. Glycine.

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1. Establish a quiet, relaxing bedtime routine.
2. Relax your body.
3. Make your bedroom conducive to sleep.
4. Put clocks in your bedroom out of sight.
5. Avoid caffeine after noon, and limit alcohol to 1 drink several hours before bedtime.
6. Avoid smoking.
7. Get regular exercise.
8. Go to bed only when you’re sleepy.

Melatonin. This hormone tells your body when to sleep and wake. Some research suggests that melatonin supplements can ease sleep issues like jet lag and trouble falling or staying asleep. For the most part, melatonin is safe for healthy adults if taken for only a few weeks or months.

Magnesium was the featured nutrient in a study published in the Journal of Research of Medical Science, which found that adding a supplement in elderly participants improved the symptoms of insomnia and sleep quality. Nuts, beans, seeds, tofu, bananas and whole grains are all good sources of magnesium.

Kiwifruit possess numerous vitamins and minerals3, most notably vitamins C and E as well as potassium and folate. Some research has found that eating kiwi can improve sleep4. In a study, people who ate two kiwis one hour before bedtime found that they fell asleep faster, slept more, and had better sleep quality.

10 Drinks to Help You Sleep at Night

• Warm Milk.
• Almond Milk.
• Malted Milk.
• Valerian Tea.
• Decaffeinated Green Tea.
• Chamomile Tea.
• Herbal Tea with Lemon Balm.
• Pure Coconut Water.