Dr. Ogbru received his Doctorate in Pharmacy from the University of the Pacific School of Pharmacy in 1995. He completed a Pharmacy Practice Residency at the University of Arizona/University Medical Center in 1996. He was a Professor of Pharmacy Practice and a Regional Clerkship Coordinator for the University of the Pacific School of Pharmacy from 1996-99.
Jay W. Marks, MD, is a board-certified internist and gastroenterologist. He graduated from Yale University School of Medicine and trained in internal medicine and gastroenterology at UCLA/Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine used for
treating allergic reactions. Histamine is released by the body during several
types of allergic reactions and--to a lesser extent--during some viral
infections, such as the common cold. When histamine binds to its receptors on
cells, it stimulates changes within the cells that lead to sneezing,
itching,
and increased mucus production. Antihistamines compete with histamine for cell
receptors; however, when they bind to the receptors they do not stimulate the
cells. In addition, they prevent histamine from binding and stimulating the
cells. Diphenhydramine also blocks the action of acetylcholine (anticholinergic
effect) and is used as a sedative because it causes drowsiness. The FDA
originally approved diphenhydramine in 1946.
GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes
PRESCRIPTION: No
PREPARATIONS: Capsules: 25 and 50 mg. Tablets: 12.5, 25, and 50 mg. Strips:
12.5 and 25 mg. Elixir, oral solution, liquid: 12.5 mg per teaspoon (5 mL).
Suspension: 25 mg per 5 ml. Injection: 50 mg per ml
b Diphenhydramine should be stored at room temperature, 15° to 30°C
(59° to 86°F), and protected injection from freezing and light.
PRESCRIBED FOR: Diphenhydramine is used for the relief of nasal and non-nasal
symptoms of various allergic conditions such as seasonal
allergic rhinitis. It
is also used to alleviate cold symptoms and chronic
urticaria (hives). Although
antihistamines are the preferred class of drugs in allergic rhinitis, they only
reduce symptoms by 40%-60%. Diphenhydramine also is used for allergic reactions
involving the eyes (allergic conjunctivitis), to prevent or treat active
motion
sickness, and for mild cases of
Parkinsonism, including drug-induced
Parkinsonism. The last two uses (motion sickness and Parkinsonism) are based on
the anticholinergic effects of diphenhydramine, and not its antihistamine
effects. Diphenhydramine is also used for treating insomnia.
DOSING: Diphenhydramine has its maximal effect about one hour after it is
taken. When used to combat insomnia, it is prescribed at bedtime. Patients over
the age of 60 years are especially sensitive to the sedating and anticholinergic
effects of diphenhydramine, and the dose should be reduced. Doses vary depending
on formulation. A common regimen for treating adult allergic reaction is 25-50
mg every 4-6 hours not to exceed 300 mg daily.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Diphenhydramine adds to (exaggerates) the sedating
effects of alcohol and other drugs than can cause sedation such as the
benzodiazepine class of anti-anxiety drugs [for example, diazepam (Valium),
lorazepam (Ativan), clonazepam (Klonopin), alprazolam (Xanax)], the narcotic
class of pain medications and its derivatives [for example,
oxycodone and acetaminophen (Percocet),
and hydrocodone and acetaminophen
(Vicodin),
guaifenesin with hydromorphone
(Dilaudid), Codeine,
propoxyphene (Darvon)], the
tricyclic class of antidepressants [for example,
amitriptyline (Elavil),
imipramine (Tofranil),
desipramine (Norpramin)], and certain antihypertensive medications [for
example,
clonidine (Catapres), propranolol (Inderal)]. Diphenhydramine can also intensify
the drying effects of other medications with anticholinergic properties [for
example, dicyclomine (Bentyl),
bethanechol (Urecholine), Probanthine].
Scabies are itch mites that burrow under the skin and produce intense itching that's usually worse at night. Symptoms of scabies are small bumps and blisters on the wrists, knees, between the fingers, on the back of the elbows, in the groin and on the buttocks. Treatment involves applying a mite-killing cream, antihistamines for itch relief, washing bedclothes and linens.
Eczema, also known as dermatitis, is a general term for many types of skin inflammation. The most common form of eczema is atopic dermatitis. The other forms of eczema include: contact eczema, seborrheic eczema, Nummular eczema, Neurodermatitis, stasis dermatitis, and dyshidrotic eczema. Symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of eczema may vary from person to person and may depend on the type of eczema.
Hives, also called urticaria, is a raised, itchy area of skin that is usually a sign of an
allergic reaction. The allergy may be to food or medications, but usually the
cause of the allergy (the allergen) is unknown.
Itching can be a common problem. Itches can be localized or generalized. There are many causes of itching to include: infection (jock itch, vaginal itch), disease (hyperthyroidism, liver or kidney), reactions to drugs, and skin infestations (pubic or body lice). Treatment for itching varies depending on the cause of the itch.
The Eustachian tube is a membrane lined tube that connects the middle ear space to the back of the nose. Problems include partial or complete blockage which can cause popping, clicking, and ear fullness. Allergies, sinus and ear infections, or the common cold can cause this blockage, while altitude changes can cause symptoms in those persons with Eustachian tube problems. Treatment includes several maneuvers (swallowing, chewing gum, yawning etc.), which can be done to improve Eustachian tube function.
Parkinson's disease is a slowly progressive neurologic disease characterized by a fixed inexpressive face, a tremor at rest, slowing of voluntary movements, a gait with short accelerating steps, peculiar posture and muscle weakness, caused by degeneration of an area of the brain called the basal ganglia, and by low production of the neurotransmitter dopamine. Most patients are over 50, but at least 10 percent are under 40.
Coxsackie viruses may be divided into two groups. Type A causes hand, foot, and mouth disease and conjunctivitis, while type B causes pleurodynia. Both types sometimes cause meningitis, myocarditis, and pericarditis. There is no specific treatment for this disease.
An allergy refers to a misguided reaction by our immune system in response to bodily contact with certain foreign substances. When these allergens come in contact with the body, it causes the immune system to develop an allergic reaction in people who are allergic to it. It is estimated that 50 million North Americans are affected by allergic conditions. The parts of the body that are prone to react to allergies include the eyes, nose, lungs, skin, and stomach. Common allergic disorders include hay fever, asthma, allergic eyes, allergic eczema, hives, and allergic shock.
Canker sore is a small ulcer crater in the lining of the mouth. Canker sores are one of the most
common problems that occur in the mouth. Canker sores typically last for
10-14 days and they heal without leaving a scar.
Chickenpox (chicken pox) is a contagious childhood disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Symptoms have an incubation period of 14 to 16 days and include a couple days of mild fever, weakness, and red, raised rash that progresses to blisters that eventually burst and crust over. Complications include bacterial infection of the open sores, scarring, encephalitis, nerve palsies, and Reye's syndrome.
Pityriasis rosea is a rash that begins with a large pink patch with well-defined scaly borders on the back, chest, or neck. In one to two weeks, the person will develop many smaller pink patches on his or her trunk, arms, and legs. Symptoms include mild itching and possible sore throat, fatigue, nausea, aching, and decreased appetite. Pityriasis rosea typically resolves on its own and symptoms may be treated with topical steroid creams and oral antihistamines.
Insomnia is the perception or complaint of inadequate or poor-quality sleep because of difficulty falling asleep; waking up frequently during the night with difficulty returning to sleep; waking up too early in the morning; or unrefreshing sleep. Secondary insomnia is the most common type of insomnia. Treatment for insomnia include lifestyle changes, cognitive behavioral therapy, and medication.
Ticks are known transmitters of disease to humans and animals. Tick-borne diseases include Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Q fever, tularemia, babesiosis, and Southern tick-associated rash illness. Infected ticks spread disease once they've bitten a host, allowing the pathogens in their saliva and mouth get into the host's skin and blood. Tick bites are typically painless, but the site of the bite may later itch, burn, turn red, and feel painful. Individuals allergic to tick bites may develop a rash, swelling, shortness of breath, numbness, or paralysis. Tick bite treatment involves cleaning and applying antibiotic cream.
Drugs commonly abused by teens include tobacco products, marijuana, cold medications, inhalants, depressants, stimulants, narcotics, hallucinogens, PCP, ketamine, Ecstasy, and anabolic steroids. Some of the symptoms and warning signs of teen drug abuse include reddened whites of eyes, paranoia, sleepiness, excessive happiness, seizures, memory loss, increased appetite, discolored fingertips, lips or teeth, and irritability. Treatment of drug addiction may involve a combination of medication, individual, and familial interventions.
Poison ivy, oak, and sumac are plants that cause an itchy skin rash and skin inflamation when contacted directly. This poison can be treated with medications such as calamine lotion and cortisone drugs.
Hay fever (allergic rhinitis) is an irritation of the nose caused by pollen and is associated with the following allergic symptoms: nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, eye and nose itching, and tearing eyes. Avoidance of known allergens is the recommended treatment, but if this is not possible, antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays may help alleviate symptoms.
Insomnia is difficulty in falling or staying asleep, the absence of restful sleep, or poor quality of sleep. Insomnia is a symptom and not a disease. The most common causes of insomnia are medications, psychological conditions, environmental changes and stressful events. Treatments may include non-drug treatments, over-the-counter medicines, and/or prescription medications.
Urinary retention (inability to urinate) may be caused by nerve disease, spinal cord injury, prostate enlargement, infection, surgery, medication, bladder stone, constipation, cystocele, rectocele, or urethral stricture. Symptoms include discomfort and pain. Treatment depends upon the cause of urinary retention.
Becoming infected with chickenpox during pregnancy could cause birth defects in your unborn child. Likewise, shingles could also cause problems for your unborn child. If you are pregnant and haven't had chickenpox, avoid exposure to infected people. Zostavax, the shingles vaccine, can reduce the incidence of shingles by half. Women should wait at least three months after receiving the vaccine before trying to get pregnant.
Scabies is an itchy, highly contagious skin condition caused by an infestation by the itch mite
Sarcoptes scabiei.
Direct skin-to-skin contact is the mode of transmission.
A severe and relentless itch is the predominant symptom of scabies.
Sexual contact is the most common form of transmission among sexually active young people, and scabies has been considered by many to be a sexually transmitted disease (STD).
Scabies produces a skin rash composed of small red bumps and blisters and affects specific areas of the body.
Treatment includes oral or topical scabicidal drugs.
What is scabies?
Scabies is an itchy, highly contagious skin disease caused by an infestation by the itch mite Sarcoptes scabiei. Mites are small eight-legged parasites (in contrast to insects, which have six legs). They are tiny, just 1/3 millimeter long, and burrow into the sk...
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