Teens Warned of Deadly Benadryl Challenge Risk

Health experts are raising alarms about a resurgence of the 'Benadryl Challenge' on social media, urging parents and teens to avoid participating. This dangerous trend promotes ingesting large amounts of the allergy medicine, Benadryl, to achieve hallucinatory effects. However, medical professionals warn that such misuse can lead to life-threatening consequences.

Dr. Joshua King of the Maryland Poison Control Center explained that while Benadryl is safe when used as directed, excessive doses of its active ingredient, diphenhydramine, can cause hallucinations, rapid heart rate, seizures, severe heart rhythm problems, coma, and even death. The warning comes in the wake of a reported death of a 15-year-old in Oklahoma allegedly due to the challenge.

Poison control centers nationwide have observed an approximately one-third increase in overdose cases involving teenagers, with Maryland experiencing a similar trend. Although the challenge first gained notoriety in 2020, these viral trends tend to reappear. Experts stress that reactions to high doses are unpredictable and can vary significantly from person to person. The Maryland Poison Control Center remains available 24/7 to assist with suspected overdoses. The manufacturer of Benadryl, Kenvue, has stated that the trend is extremely dangerous and they are working with social media platforms to remove harmful content and educate the public on safe usage.