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American teenagers are increasingly abusing common over-the-counter medications, according to poison center records.
A health adviser from the Poison Centers of America, which represents 53 poison centers nationwide, has warned of a “surge” in cases of diphenhydramine abuse among 13- to 19-year-olds.
Diphenhydramine is commonly found in allergy and sleep medications such as Benadryl and Zzzquil, as mentioned in the advisory.
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From 2024 to 2025, the number of exposures to any substance among youth in this age group is reported to have increased by 5.1%.
But cases involving diphenhydramine alone increased much faster, from 10,068 to 13,284 cases, a 32% increase.
Thirteen percent of diphenhydramine cases in 2026 are linked to intentional abuse, an increase from 7.3% in 2020. (Stock)
This trend appears to be continuing in 2026, as in the first five months there were 6,179 cases of diphenhydramine alone among young people – more than double the previous year.
According to America's Poison Centers, exposure appears to be driven by recreational abuse rather than accidental overdose. Thirteen percent of crimes in 2026 are linked to intentional harassment, up from 7.3% in 2020.
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Taking diphenhydramine inappropriately or in large amounts can affect the brain and heart, and can lead to serious or life-threatening consequences, the advisory warned.
Diphenhydramine is commonly found in over-the-counter allergy and sleep medications. (Stock)
Other symptoms of diphenhydramine poisoning include drowsiness, agitation, rapid heartbeat, nausea, vomiting, hallucinations, seizures, abnormal heart rhythms and loss of consciousness.
To avoid overexposure and complications, America's Poison Centers advises the public to keep all medications safely, up, and out of reach of children and teenagers. Label instructions should be followed carefully.
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“Talk to young people about the dangers of drug abuse, including adverse health effects and toxicity,” the notice suggests. “Be aware of social media trends or challenges that may promote unsafe drug use.”
Those who suspect misuse should contact their local Poison Control Center immediately.
The US Poison Centers advises the public to “be aware of social media trends or challenges that may promote unsafe use of medications.” (Stock)
In a statement sent to Fox News Digital, Benadryl manufacturer Kenvue noted that “the health and safety of the people who use our products is our top priority.”
“The trend on social media that promotes the misuse of products containing diphenhydramine is extremely dangerous and must be stopped immediately,” said a Kenvue spokesperson. “Our hearts go out to those affected by the misuse of products containing diphenhydramine.”
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“We are working with social media security teams to remove these dangerous images and help stop this behavior from spreading,” they added. “We also take steps to teach about the use and storage of over-the-counter medicines safely, including those containing the ingredient diphenhydramine.”
“The trend on social media that promotes the misuse of products containing diphenhydramine is extremely dangerous and must be stopped immediately.”
Mary Leonard, SVP of communications and public affairs for the Consumer Healthcare Products Association, called the latest report “deeply concerning.”
“OTC medications should never be used recreationally, and intentional misuse should not be confused with the safe, effective use of these products,” he told Fox News Digital. “When used as directed, millions of Americans rely on OTC medications containing diphenhydramine for relief from seizures, cold symptoms, motion sickness, minor skin irritations and occasional insomnia.”
“Because the misuse of any drug can lead to serious health consequences, the Drug Facts label clearly conveys dosage instructions, warnings and other important safety information.”
“OTC medications should never be used recreationally, and intentional misuse should not be confused with the safe, effective use of these products,” an industry spokesperson said. (Stock)
Kenvue shared the following three steps people can take to help prevent abuse.
- Report content related to this trend on the social media where it appears.
- Always keep OTC medicines up and out of reach of children – preferably in locked cabinets or containers – and never leave medicines on counters, bedside tables or in open bags, even temporarily.
- Carefully read and follow the instructions on the label and teach children about safe use.
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“Dosage instructions and additional safety information are available at Benadryl.com, and always remember to contact your healthcare professional if you have any questions,” the spokesperson said.
Fox News Digital has reached out to Zzzquil maker P&G for comment.
