Diphenhydramine

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Dec 12, 2022

Common Questions


Common Questions about Diphenhydramine


Are diphenhydramine and Benadryl the same thing?

Yes, diphenhydramine and Benadryl are the same thing. Diphenhydramine is the generic form of the medicine, and it is also marketed under the brand name Benadryl. Both are equally safe and effective. In general, generic medications offer better value for money than brand-name drugs.



How much diphenhydramine can I take to sleep?

Adults can take diphenhydramine for sleep. The usual dose is 50 mg, approximately 30 minutes before bedtime. This medicine should never be used to make a child sleepy.



Is it okay to take diphenhydramine every night?

You should not take diphenhydramine every night for sleep. Your body can build a tolerance to this medicine, and it may not work as well with prolonged use. Diphenhydramine is only for occasional insomnia. If you have chronic insomnia (long-term problems with sleeping), discuss treatment options with your healthcare provider.



When is the best time to take diphenhydramine?

If you are taking diphenhydramine for relief from allergy symptoms, take the medicine every 4-6 hours as needed. For insomnia, take it 30 minutes before bedtime. To treat motion sickness, take it 30 minutes before anticipated travel. 



How fast does diphenhydramine start working?

Diphenhydramine starts working pretty quickly, usually within 15-30 minutes. You should get relief of symptoms and the full effects of this medicine around 2 hours after a dose.



What is the price of diphenhydramine without insurance?

Without insurance, diphenhydramine can be as high as $14, but with a free BuzzRx prescription discount coupon, you could pay as low as $3.94 for the most common version of this medication. Use the BuzzRx drug price look-up tool to find the lowest discounted price, and be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity for the most accurate pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescription drugs—whether you have insurance or not.



What is the price of diphenhydramine with insurance? 

You could save up to 80% on your prescription medication with a free BuzzRx discount coupon for diphenhydramine, as long as you have a prescription from your doctor. When using the BuzzRx lookup tool to find the price of your medicine, be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity to receive the most accurate discounted pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.