Ohio Poison Center Warns of Rising Teen Benadryl Misuse as 24-Hour Hotline Tracks More Calls

3 articles · Updated · WCPO 9 Cincinnati · Jun 26

Central Ohio Poison Center said calls involving teenagers misusing Benadryl have risen this year from the same period in 2025, prompting a warning to parents.
Social media challenges may be driving some cases, with teens taking diphenhydramine to try to hallucinate, according to the center's managing director.
Too much Benadryl can trigger confusion, rapid heart rate, hallucinations, seizures and dangerous heart-rhythm changes; severe overdoses can be fatal.
Poison control specialists field calls from parents, schools and friends and can advise whether a suspected overdose needs emergency treatment or home monitoring via 1-800-222-1222.

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