Antidepressant effect of Diphenhydramine?

arlin · Newbie Joined: 03 Jan 2007 Posts: 5

I am suffering from chronic rhinitis and depression. For treatment of chronic rhinitis I usually use Diphenhydramine to reduce congestion in my nose and sinuses. But I have heard that Diphenhydramine also has antidepressant effect. It is really true? How can it be? Can I use it to treat my depression?

rianon · Newbie Joined: 01 Apr 2004 Posts: 3

Diphenhydramine (Benedryl) is an antihistamine. It works by blocking the effect of naturally occurring chemical histamine in the body and reduces congestion. There are similarities between antihistamines and antidepressants, and yes, Diphenhydramine really has antidepressant effect but mild. If you want to treat depression try something stronger like Prozac. In combination with antidepressants Diphenhydraminecan cause drowsiness.

Antidepressant effect of Diphenhydramine?

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