Confirm the Product and Concentration
This dosage information applies only to US BENADRYL Allergy oral solution containing diphenhydramine HCl 12.5 mg per 5 mL. Check your bottle's Drug Facts label for both the active ingredient and concentration before measuring a dose.
Do not transfer these milliliter instructions to a different liquid concentration or to another product, such as BENADRYL Liqui-Gels, topical BENADRYL, or a combination cold medicine. Brand names alone do not confirm that products contain the same ingredients or strength.
The oral solution is labeled for temporary relief of runny nose, sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, and itching of the nose or throat associated with hay fever or other upper respiratory allergies. It is also labeled for temporary relief of runny nose and sneezing associated with the common cold.
Labeled Adult Dose and Maximum Frequency
For adults and children 12 years and older, the product label directs:
- 10-20 mL every 4-6 hours
- No more than six doses in 24 hours
For the verified concentration of 12.5 mg per 5 mL:
- 10 mL contains 25 mg of diphenhydramine HCl
- 20 mL contains 50 mg of diphenhydramine HCl
The milliliter range applies only to that concentration. A liquid with a different amount of diphenhydramine per 5 mL would require following its own label rather than using these volumes.
The labeled range is not a personalized recommendation for choosing a dose based on body weight, symptom severity, medical history, or another individual factor. Do not exceed six doses in 24 hours. The label also allows use as directed by a doctor.
How to Measure Each Dose Correctly
Use only the enclosed dosing cup to measure the oral solution, as directed on the product label. Do not use a household spoon or substitute a measuring device from another medicine.
For a 10 mL dose, fill the enclosed cup to its 10 mL line once. For a 20 mL dose, fill the cup to the 10 mL line twice. This package-specific instruction is important because the cup's marked line measures 10 mL at a time.
Before taking the dose, check that the liquid reaches the intended marking. Keep the cup with this product so it is available for later doses, and do not assume that a cup from another medicine has the same markings or capacity.
When to Ask a Clinician or Pharmacist Before Use
Ask a doctor before using this oral solution if you have a breathing problem such as chronic bronchitis, glaucoma, trouble urinating because of an enlarged prostate gland, or a sodium-restricted diet.
The label also directs people who are pregnant or breastfeeding to ask a health professional before use. These situations call for a product-specific discussion rather than choosing a dose independently.
Each 5 mL contains 14 mg of sodium. That label detail is relevant if you have been told to follow a sodium-restricted diet. A doctor or pharmacist can help determine whether this product is appropriate for your circumstances.
Drowsiness, Alcohol, and Drug Interactions
Marked drowsiness may occur with this product. Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or doing another activity that requires alertness until you know how it affects you.
The label says to avoid alcoholic drinks. Alcohol, sedatives, and tranquilizers may increase drowsiness. If you take a sedative or tranquilizer, ask a doctor or pharmacist before using the oral solution. Do not assume that separating the products by a short interval removes this concern.
The product label does not provide a general interaction list for every medicine. A pharmacist can review your medication and help determine whether this product is suitable before you take it.
Overdose and Duplicate-Ingredient Risks
Do not use this oral solution with any other product containing diphenhydramine, including a product applied to the skin. Check the active ingredients on other allergy, sleep, cold, or topical products before combining them.
Taking more than the labeled amount or combining diphenhydramine-containing products requires urgent attention rather than home management. In case of an overdose, obtain medical help or contact Poison Control immediately at 1-800-222-1222.
If you are unsure whether another product contains diphenhydramine, ask a pharmacist before using the products together. Do not rely on the brand name alone, because different products under a similar brand may have different ingredients.
Storage and Other Label Details
Store the oral solution at 20-25°C (68-77°F), protect it from light, and keep it in the outer carton until used.
Do not use the product if the carton is open or if the bottle's safety wrap is broken or missing. These package warnings are part of the product label and should be checked before use.