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Compare Phenylephrine vs. Benadryl

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

  • Phenylephrine eye drops
    Diphenhydramine
  • Phenylephrine eye drops
    Diphenhydramine

  • Summary of Phenylephrine vs. Benadryl

    Summary for Alpha-1 adrenergic receptor agonist
    Prescription only

    Phenylephrine eye drops are used to dilate (widen) pupils for eye exams or certain eye procedures. Side effects include temporary burning or stinging in the eye, blurry vision, and possibly raise your blood pressure. Let your provider know if your pregnant or breastfeeding because you might need to use a different medication.

    Summary for Antihistamine

    Diphenhydramine, also known by the brand name Benadryl, is an over-the-counter antihistamine used to relieve allergy or common cold symptoms in adults and children. It comes as pills and a liquid and is typically taken by mouth every 4 to 6 hours as needed. Because it can make you drowsy, some people also use it as a sleep aid at bedtime. Common side effects include sleepiness, dizziness, and dry mouth.

  • Indications of Phenylephrine vs. Benadryl

    Indications for
    •Dilate (widen) pupils
    Indications for
    •Short-term relief of allergy or common cold symptoms (runny nose, sneezing, itchy nose or throat, and itchy or watery eyes) - people 6 years and older
    •Occasional trouble sleeping - people 12 years and older

  • Pros and Cons of Phenylephrine vs. Benadryl

    Pros and Const for Alpha-1 adrenergic receptor agonist
    Pros
    •Can be used in adults and children
    •Starts working quickly (within 15 minutes)
    •Available as a lower-cost generic medication
    Cons
    •Can cause eye pain and stinging
    •Dilating effects can last for up to 7 hours (or longer)
    •The 10% strength can raise blood pressure in people with certain heart or thyroid problems
    Pros and Const for Antihistamine
    Pros
    •Relieves allergy and cold symptoms in about 15 to 30 minutes
    •Safe for children as young as 6 years old
    •Available over the counter
    •Comes as pills and liquid
    Cons
    •Can make you feel sleepy or dizzy
    •Might need to take multiple times a day for symptom relief
    •Not the best choice for older adults
    •Can worsen certain conditions like glaucoma and stomach ulcers

  • Common Side Effects of Phenylephrine vs. Benadryl

    Common Side Effects for
    •Temporary stinging or burning in your eye
    •Temporary blurry vision
    •Sensitivity to light
    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness
    •Dizziness
    •Constipation
    •Blurry vision
    •Dry mouth

  • Warnings of Phenylephrine vs. Benadryl

    Common Side Effects for
    •For use in the eyes only
    •Heart problems
    •High blood pressure
    •Rebound pupil constriction
    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness
    •Accidental overdose
    •Worsening of certain health problems

  • Prices with our coupons for Phenylephrine vs. Benadryl

    Learn more about Phenylephrine eye drops
    Learn more about Diphenhydramine

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