Benadryl facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

Benadryl is a well-known brand name for different medications. These medicines are mainly used to help people feel better when they have allergies or a cough.

What is Benadryl?

Benadryl products often contain a type of medicine called an antihistamine. A common antihistamine found in Benadryl is called diphenhydramine. Antihistamines work by blocking substances in your body that cause allergy symptoms like sneezing, itching, or a runny nose.

Different Types of Benadryl

The exact ingredients in Benadryl can be different depending on where you are in the world.

In the United Kingdom, Benadryl usually contains different antihistamines like acrivastine or cetirizine. Cetirizine is known as a "long-acting" antihistamine, meaning its effects can last for a longer time.
In places like Australia and New Zealand, Benadryl products are sold mainly as cough medicine. Interestingly, these versions do not contain any antihistamine. They focus on helping with cough symptoms instead.

So, while the name "Benadryl" is the same, it's important to know that the medicine inside can be different! Always check the label to see what active ingredients are in the specific Benadryl product you are looking at.

Images for kids

Cough syrup in a medicine measure cup

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Benadryl Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.