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Diphenhydramine-induced toxic psychosis
The American Journal of Emergency Medicine
|July 1, 1986
Summary
Acute diphenhydramine (Benadryl) overdose can cause toxic psychosis. This case highlights the increasing frequency of such ingestions due to widespread availability and discusses diagnosis and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Emergency Medicine
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) is a common over-the-counter antihistamine.
- Anticholinergic side effects are known, but overdose effects are less understood.
- Increasing frequency of diphenhydramine ingestions is noted.
Observation:
- A 24-year-old man presented with acute anticholinergic symptoms.
- Symptoms included hallucinations and bizarre behavior.
- This followed a large ingestion of diphenhydramine.
Findings:
- The patient exhibited signs of toxic psychosis.
- Differential diagnosis for toxic psychosis was considered.
- Treatment strategies for diphenhydramine overdose were discussed.
Implications:
- Highlights the potential for severe psychiatric effects from common medications.
- Emphasizes the need for awareness of diphenhydramine toxicity.
- Informs emergency and psychiatric care for overdose cases.