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Diphenhydramine-induced acute dystonia
1Department of Clinical Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy and Allied Health Professions, St. John's University, Jamaica, New York 11439.
Pharmacotherapy
|July 1, 1994
Summary
Diphenhydramine, an antihistamine, can cause acute dystonic reactions, including trismus and weakness, shortly after administration. Prompt treatment with medications like diazepam can effectively manage these adverse effects.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine, are widely used for allergic reactions.
- Adverse neurological effects from antihistamines are uncommon but significant.
Observation:
- A 45-year-old woman developed acute dystonic symptoms, including trismus, dysarthria, tremors, and decreased consciousness, within minutes of receiving diphenhydramine.
- The patient experienced left-sided weakness and diminished consciousness.
Findings:
- The patient's symptoms resolved after treatment with intravenous diazepam and benztropine.
- This case adds to the literature reporting acute dystonic reactions secondary to diphenhydramine.
- Such reactions can occur with both short-term and long-term antihistamine use.
Implications:
- Healthcare providers should be aware of the potential for diphenhydramine-induced dystonic reactions.
- Prompt recognition and management are crucial for patient recovery.
- Public awareness of these risks is important due to the over-the-counter availability of diphenhydramine.