Betel Nut - Benadryl (Diphenhydramine) Interaction

Interaction Details

Diphenhydramine is classified as belonging to the following category: Anticholinergic Drugs

In vitro and animal research suggests that betel nut extract can inhibit acetylcholinesterase activity. Additionally, in one case series, adults who were treated with procyclidine, an anticholinergic drug, and neuroleptics for the management of extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) due to fluphenazine ultimately developed severe EPS, such as tremor and stiffness, thought to be related to betel nut use. Theoretically, concurrent use of anticholinergic drugs and betel nut might decrease the effectiveness of betel nut or the anticholinergic agent.
Some anticholinergic drugs include atropine, benztropine (Cogentin), biperiden (Akineton), procyclidine (Kemadrin), and trihexyphenidyl (Artane). Avoid concomitant use.

Interaction Rating

Likelihood of Occurrence

Interaction has not been documented in well-controlled studies, however, the interaction has been demonstrated in some small human studies or in controlled animal studies in conjunction with multiple case reports.

References

• The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999.
• Gilani, A. H., Ghayur, M. N., Saify, Z. S., Ahmed, S. P., Choudhary, M. I., and Khalid, A. Presence of cholinomimetic and acetylcholinesterase inhibitory constituents in betel nut. Life Sci 10-1-2004;75(20):2377-2389.

Diphenhydramine Overview

• Diphenhydramine is used to relieve red, irritated, itchy, watery eyes; sneezing; and runny nose caused by hay fever, allergies, or the common cold. Diphenhydramine is also used to relieve cough caused by minor throat or airway irritation. Diphenhydramine is also used to prevent and treat motion sickness, and to treat insomnia (difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep). Diphenhydramine is also used to control abnormal movements in people who have early stage parkinsonian syndrome (a disorder of the nervous system that causes difficulties with movement, muscle control, and balance) or who are experiencing movement problems as a side effect of a medication.

• Diphenhydramine will relieve the symptoms of these conditions but will not treat the cause of the symptoms or speed recovery. Diphenhydramine should not be used to cause sleepiness in children. Diphenhydramine is in a class of medications called antihistamines. It works by blocking the action of histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms.

Betel Nut - More Interactions

Betel Nut interacts with 226 drugs

Interaction Rating Key

These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.