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Phenylephrine vs. Benadryl

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

phenylephrine eye drops

 

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Diphenhydramine

 

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Summary for Phenylephrine

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.

Indications for Phenylephrine

  • Dilate (widen) pupils

Pros and Cons for Phenylephrine

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

Common Side Effects for Phenylephrine

  • Temporary stinging or burning in your eye
  • Temporary blurry vision
  • Sensitivity to light

Warnings for Phenylephrine

  • For use in the eyes only
  • Heart problems
  • High blood pressure
  • Rebound pupil constriction

Summary for Benadryl

Over-the-counter

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 for Benadryl

  • 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 for Benadryl

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 for Benadryl

  • Sleepiness
  • Dizziness
  • Constipation
  • Blurry vision
  • Dry mouth

Warnings for Benadryl

  • Sleepiness
  • Accidental overdose
  • Worsening of certain health problems

Prices with our coupons for Phenylephrine vs. Benadryl

Price Card Drug Icon
Phenylephrine1 eye dropper / 2ml of 2.5%
$21.67$40.99
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Price Card Drug Icon
Diphenhydramine30 capsules / 25mg
$9.66-
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