Does 150 mg of Benadryl Get You High?

Many users are curious about the effects of taking a high dose of Benadryl (diphenhydramine) and whether it can produce a 'high.' This article explores the impacts and potential risks associated with consuming 150 mg or 175 mg of Benadryl, drawing from personal experiences and expert advice.

Personal Experience with 150 mg of Benadryl

At the age of 14, I experimented with consuming 10 Benadryl tablets, a whopping 150 mg. Initially, I only felt a slight effect, and it took some time for the full impact to manifest. The experience was far from pleasant. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what I experienced:

Initial Sensations: My hands began to shake, and I felt like there was a sharp, electric-like sensation in my chest, similar to having a lightbulb between my ribs. This feeling would come and go intermittently, further aggravating the situation. Visual Hallucinations: I started seeing dark shadowy figures in the corners of my vision, which seemed to disappear every time I attempted to focus on them directly. Auditory Hallucinations: I heard tapping and scraping sounds against my window, even though the room was empty. This auditory disturbance lasted throughout the high. Visual Distortions: The environment around me appeared to warp and move, contributing to a generally uncomfortable and disoriented state. Restlessness: The strange sensations made it difficult to sleep, keeping me awake for an additional two hours until my pupils dilated significantly. Physical Aftermath: Upon waking, I felt extremely heavy and weighed down, adding to the overall discomfort of the experience. My vision was blurred, and I felt physically and mentally exhausted for the remainder of the day.

Based on these personal observations, I strongly discourage anyone from consuming such a high dose of Benadryl for recreational purposes.

General Advice on Benadryl Dosage and Effects

Conventional wisdom suggests that 150 mg is significantly more than the usual and safe dosage for an adult. The typical recommended dose for over-the-counter Benadryl ranges from 25 to 50 mg, depending on the form (e.g., tablets, liquid).

Some minor side effects of taking lower doses include:

Tiredness: One of the primary side effects of Benadryl is drowsiness, making it an effective sleep aid. Dizziness: Some users experience a mild dizziness or lightheadedness.

On the other hand, higher doses may exacerbate these effects and introduce new, more severe symptoms:

Overdose Risks: Consuming 175 mg of Benadryl might lead to heightened drowsiness, loss of balance, hallucinations, and confusion. Severe Side Effects: Taking 250 mg or more can result in more critical side effects, including extreme drowsiness, severe disorientation, and potentially harmful or even lethal overdose.

It should be noted that the safety and well-being of users are paramount. Excessive doses of Benadryl can be hazardous and should be approached with extreme caution.

Alternative Sleep Aids

If you’re looking for a safe and effective way to improve your sleep, consider the following recommended alternatives:

Melatonin: Melatonin is a natural hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle. It is a highly recommended supplement for those experiencing mild to moderate sleep troubles, often without the excessive dryness and fatigue associated with higher doses of diphenhydramine. Consult a Healthcare Professional: If you have ongoing sleep issues, consulting a healthcare provider for a proper evaluation and personalized advice is essential. They can recommend the right dosage and consider any underlying conditions that may affect your sleep.

Remember, safety should always be a priority when considering medication or alternative remedies. Always follow the recommended dosage and consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or questions.