Which Antihistamines Are Safe To Take With Ativan?

Answer

You're correct that there is a potential interaction between Benadryl (diphenhydramine) and Ativan (lorazepam). Both drugs can cause sedation, dizziness, and drowsiness, so taking both together can potentiate these effects.

We have actually answered a question in the past regarding this very same combination (which can be found here).

It is important to note that the interaction between Benadryl and Ativan is based on the additive side effects (specifically, their CNS [central nervous system] depressant effects). As there are plenty of antihistamines available over-the-counter that are essentially non-drowsy, you have alternative options.

Antihistamines Safe With Ativan

The safest antihistamines to take with Ativan are the ones that are non-drowsy. This includes most of the second-generation antihistamines, such as:

• Claritin (loratadine)
• Allegra (fexofenadine)
• Xyzal (levocetirizine)
• Zyrtec (cetirizine)

It should be noted that Claritin and Allegra are 'non-drowsy', and marketed as such, while Zyrtec and Xyzal cause sedation in about 10% of individuals.

As mentioned, you generally want to avoid sedating antihistamines with Ativan, so this would include Benadryl (diphenhydramine), Chlor-Trimeton (chlorpheniramine), and doxylamine (the antihistamine in NyQuil)

Final Words

You also asked about safe antacids with your medications. You are already taking famotidine (generic for Pepcid), so I assume you are asking about fast-acting antacids.

Antacids like Tums (calcium carbonate) and Mylanta (magnesium hydroxide/aluminum hydroxide/simethicone) are safe with your medications.

Some studies suggest antacids may slow the absorption of benzodiazepines (such as lorazepam), making them take longer to work, but this doesn't appear to be clinically significant and I could not find any that specifically noted an interaction with Ativan.

I hope this answer helped and please reach back out anytime!