Can You Take Benadryl And Propranolol Together?
In our latest question and answer, the pharmacist discusses whether or not Benadryl (diphenhydramine) can be used with propranolol.
Is it safe to take propranolol & Benadryl (Nytol in the U.K)? I’ve been having trouble sleeping but don’t want to mix medications. Is there a reaction?
Oct 05, 2022- There is no direct interaction between Benadryl and propranolol and they can be taken together. Both medications can cause drowsiness and dizziness, so you should be cautious about these combined effects. Be especially careful with activities like driving or standing up quickly, as propranolol can lower blood pressure when you change positions.
Answer
It is safe to take Benadryl/Nytol (diphenhydramine) with propranolol as there is no interaction between the two medications.
They do, however, share some similar side effects that are important to be aware of.
Interaction Detail
Both Nytol and Benadryl are brand names for diphenhydramine, a sedating first-generation antihistamine that is often used for allergies and insomnia.
Propranolol, brand name Inderal, is a beta blocker that is indicated for a variety of conditions including angina, high blood pressure, and migraine prophylaxis.
While both Benadryl and propranolol can be used together, caution is advised in regard to the potential for additive adverse reactions such as sedation and dizziness.
Propranolol is known to cause sedation and orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure while standing), which can cause dizziness. Benadryl causes drowsiness as well.
Final Words
As stated, there is no drug-drug interaction between Benadryl and propranolol. Just be aware of the potential sedation they can both cause.
Glossary — Terms in This Answer
- Diphenhydramine
- An antihistamine medication that causes drowsiness and is commonly used to treat allergies and sleep problems.
- Antihistamine
- A medication that blocks the effects of histamine in the body to reduce allergic reactions and other symptoms.
- Propranolol
- A beta blocker medication used to treat high blood pressure, chest pain, and migraines.
- Beta blocker
- A type of medication that reduces heart rate and blood pressure by blocking certain nervous system signals.
- Angina
- Chest pain or discomfort caused by reduced blood flow to the heart.
- Migraine prophylaxis
- The use of medication to prevent migraines from occurring rather than treating them after they start.
- Orthostatic hypotension
- A temporary drop in blood pressure that occurs when standing up, which can cause dizziness or lightheadedness.
- Additive adverse reactions
- Harmful side effects that become stronger or more serious when two medications with similar effects are taken together.
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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