diphenhydramine

[ dahy-fen-hahy-druh-meen ]

noun

, Pharmacology.

1. a white, crystalline, antihistaminic compound, C 17 H 21 NO, used orally, topically, and parenterally, especially for allergies.

Word History and Origins

Origin of diphenhydramine¹

First recorded in 1945–50; diphen(yl) + hydr- ² + amine

Example Sentences

A medical examiner’s report said that the teenager had been found with a “combined toxicity” of diphenhydramine, an antihistimine commonly used for allergies, and fluoxetine, a drug often used to treat depression.

From New York Times

The 6-month-old was found unresponsive while in Vaillancourt’s care, and an autopsy determined she had high concentrations of diphenhydramine, the sedating ingredient in some over-the-counter antihistamines including the brand Benadryl.

From Seattle Times

At 4:40 p.m., a nurse administered an injection that contained olanzapine, an antipsychotic used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, and diphenhydramine, an antihistamine for treating allergies and colds, according to the filing.

From Washington Post

About 40% of incidents involved common over-the-counter medications, such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen and diphenhydramine.

From Seattle Times

Q: I have taken diphenhydramine at bedtime for many years.

From Seattle Times