Can You Cut Or Split Benadryl?
In our latest question and answer, the pharmacist discusses whether or not it is safe to cut or split Benadryl in half.
Can you cut Benadryl in half?
Aug 22, 2022- Benadryl tablets can be safely cut or split in half, but liquid-gel forms should never be cut, split, opened, or crushed.
- Splitting Benadryl UltraTabs will remove their wax coating, but this does not affect how the medication works.
- If you have trouble swallowing tablets or need to adjust your dose, Benadryl is available in liquid form as an alternative.
Answer
Benadryl (diphenhydramine) tablets can safely be cut or split in half. However, this regards the tablet dosage form only. Benadryl also comes in a liquid-gel dosage form which should not be cut, split, opened, or crushed.
Also, it is important to note 'Benadryl UltraTabs' have a wax coating on them, which makes them easier to swallow. Splitting these tablets will destroy the wax coating but won't affect how the medication works at all.
Always Ask Your Doctor Or Pharmacist About Splitting Tablets
It is always a good idea to check whether or not your medication can be safely cut or split. Many medications have "extended-release" properties and cutting them may destroy the release mechanism, potentially delivering the entire dose at one time, increasing the risk of side effects.
In addition, just because a medication is not extended release doesn't mean it is safe to cut. Many medications are extremely irritating to mucous membranes and the esophagus. One such example is Fosamax (alendronate). Lastly, some medications are cytotoxic or teratogenic and should not come into direct contact with the skin. An example here is the cytotoxic drug Hydroxyurea.
As mentioned at the beginning of the answer, Benadryl tablets are considered safe to cut and split. They may also safely be crushed. If you are having problems with swallowing the tablets or need to alter your dosing, Benadryl is also available in liquid dosage forms.
About Benadryl
Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is a first-generation antihistamine, which works by blocking the binding of histamine to H1 receptors in our bodies. While effective for the treatment and prevention of allergies, it is commonly used as a nighttime sleep aid due to its sedating properties.
After taking Benadryl by mouth, it will begin to work in 30-60 minutes, with peak effects occurring around 90 minutes. Each dose will last between 4 and 6 hours, although it can last longer in certain individuals (e.g. the elderly).
References & sources
Glossary — Terms in This Answer
- Diphenhydramine
- The active chemical ingredient in Benadryl that reduces allergy symptoms and causes drowsiness.
- Liquid-gel dosage form
- A medication form where the drug is enclosed in a soft, sealed capsule that should not be opened or split.
- Extended-release
- A medication designed to slowly release its active ingredient over many hours instead of all at once.
- Mucous membranes
- The moist lining inside the mouth, throat, and digestive system that can be irritated by certain medications.
- Esophagus
- The tube that carries food and liquids from your mouth down to your stomach.
- Cytotoxic
- Poisonous or harmful to cells, requiring careful handling to avoid skin contact.
- Teratogenic
- Capable of causing birth defects if exposure occurs during pregnancy.
- Antihistamine
- A medication that blocks histamine, a chemical in the body that causes allergy symptoms.
Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Doctor of Pharmacy, board certified clinical pharmacist (BCPS), American Herbalist Guild, Medication Therapy Management certified
Brian Staiger, PharmD, BCPS, is a licensed pharmacist with more than 13 years of experience across retail pharmacy, clinical pharmacy, medication safety, pharmacy program development, and healthcare administration. He is the founder of HelloPharmacist.com, where he helps patients...
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