Can you take Ambien and Benadryl together? (+5 risks)+
By
Ivan Kahwa
Author bio
Mr Ivan Kahwa is a chemist and phytopharmaceutical scientist with expertise in chemistry, pharmacology, phytochemistry, and Nanobiotechnology. He writes and reviews content on these topics.
Mr Ivan Kahwa’s Highlights:
Guest Researcher at the University of Leipzig, Senior Research Fellow/Scientist, and Lecturer at the Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Professional Experience:
Mr Ivan joined PHARMBIOTRAC as a research fellow/scientist during his master of science tenure. He contributed to the development of most of the phytopharmaceutical products in the project. Furthermore, he participated in carrying out the pharmacological activities of the developed products in laboratory animals such as mice and rats in order to develop proper doses hence leading to pre-clinical studies.
With the above relevant research experience, Ivan started to work with the University of Leipzig on collaborative projects with Mbarara University to develop the chemistry of Ugandan Medicinal plants and their pharmacological activities. This was coupled with several consultative positions by different German NGOs. Mr. Kahwa is also a supporting in the teaching and learning at the Departments of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
With the increase in antimicrobial resistance globally, Ivan retooled his thinking towards developing new naturally derived antibiotic regimens from Ugandan propolis with the assistance of nanotechnology to improve their delivery to microbial cells. Kahwa has also published over 28 articles in peer-reviewed journals and he is currently reviewing for many journals.
Education:
2023-2027: PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences (ongoing) with a focus on Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Nanobiology at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2022: 2Msc. in Pharmacognosy and Natural Medicine Science at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2018: Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Publications:
▪ Iqbal, S., Jabeen, F., Kahwa, I., & Omara, T. 2023. Suberosin Alleviates Thiazolidinedione-Induced Cardiomyopathy in Diabetic Rats by Inhibiting Ferroptosis via Modulation of ACSL4-LPCAT3 and PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathways. Cardiovascular Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12012-023-09804-7
▪ Gupta, A. K., Yadav, R., Sharma, S., Sawale, J., & Kahwa, I. 2023. Anti-ageing Activity and Antioxidant Activity of Methanol Extracts of Leaves and Flowers of Salvia officinalis and Rosmarinus officinalis. Journal of Young Pharmacists, 15(3), 448–455. https://doi.org/10.5530/jyp.2023.15.60
▪ Tolo, C.U., Kahwa, I., Nuwagira, U., Weisheit, A. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Medicinal plants used in treatment of various diseases in the Rwenzori Region, Western Uganda. Ethnobotany Research and Applications, 25, pp.1-16.
https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/4683
▪ Kahwa, I., Ajayi, C.O., Yadav, R., Chauhan, N.S., Shah, K., Abdelgadir, A.A., Shegena, E.A., Daniel, S., Omara, T., Asiimwe, J.B. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Pharmacognostic and phytochemical studies as an invaluable approach for correct identification of medicinal plants: The case of Artemisia vulgaris L. substituted for Artemisia annua L. in Western Uganda. TMR Integr Med, 7, p.e23004.
https://doi.org/10.53388/TMRIM202307004
▪ Nalimu, F., Oloro, J., Kahwa, I. and Ogwang, P.E., 2021. Review on the phytochemistry and toxicological profiles of Aloe vera and Aloe ferox. Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 7, pp.1-21.
https://doi.org/10.1186/s43094-021-00296-2
▪ Elamin, O.H.S., Ali, M.A., Elgezuli, I.A.A., Bashir, M.A. and Kahwa, I., 2021. Diagnosis of pre-and post-treatment of echinococcus granulosus with counter current immune electrophoresis and bacterial co-agglutination. Journal of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 11(02), pp.88-94.
https://doi.org/10.5799/jmid.951600
Published book Chapter
▪ Kahwa, I., Ayesiga, I., Nakalema, S., Alinaiswe, R., Mbabazi, R. and Iqbal, S., 2023. Natural products in the management of onchocerciasis. In Natural Products in Vector-Borne Disease Management (pp. 63-80). Academic Press. Book Chapter.
https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-91942-5.00012-4
Submitted manuscripts Under Review:
▪ Comparison of the Wound Healing Activity of the Leaf and Leaf Ash Extracts of Vernonia amygdalina in Rats. Journal name: Clinical Phytoscience
▪ Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal plants used in the management of cancer in Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Herbal Medicine
▪ Ethnobotanical survey and phytochemical screening of medicinal plants used in treatment of epilepsy by PROMETRA-Uganda Traditional Health Practitioners in Mpigi District, Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Ethnopharmacology
Submitted book chapters under review
1.Book title: Algae as a Natural Solution for Water-Food-Energy Nexus, Section 4: Microalgae and cyanobacteria for food applications, Chapter 4.6: Safety, toxicological and allergenic aspects of using algae for food. Authors: Christine Kyarimpa, Tom Omute, Caroline K. Nakiguli, Alice V. Khanakwa4, Christopher Angiro, Ivan Kahwa, Fortunate Ahumuza, Timothy Omara*. Publisher: Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 152 Beach Road, #21-01/04 Gateway East, Singapore 189721, Singapore.
2.Book title: Nutraceuticals Inspiring the Contemporary Therapy for Lifestyle Diseases. Chapter: Nutraceutical applications of Seaweeds and their Phytocompounds in Nutrition and Treatment of Diseases. Authors: Ivan Kahwa, Timothy Omara , Innocent Ayesiga , Gael Noel Neh Neba Ambe , Zehbanaz Javidbhai Panwala , Rachel Mbabazi , Shabnoor Iqbal , Christine Kyarimpa , Christine Betty Nagawa , Kamal Shah ,Nagendra Singh Chauhan* Publisher: CRC Press
You can view my works on the following professional sites:
Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ivan-Kahwa
Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=tOwrvqoAAAAJ&hl=en
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6440-3437
Linkedin: https://de.linkedin.com/in/ivan-kahwa-865450159
In this article, we will discuss the combined use of Ambien and Benadryl. We will also discuss the potential benefits and risks associated with the use of Ambien and Benadryl when taken together.
Can you take Ambien and Benadryl together?
You can take Ambien and Benadryl together but this combination should be used only under the supervision and guidance of a healthcare professional in conditions where the benefits of this combination outweigh its risks, to avoid unwanted side effects.
Ambien, also known as Zolpidem, is a medication that is classified as a sedative medication. It affects the neurotransmitters in the brain, which enhances the quality of sleep. Ambien is typically used for the treatment of insomnia. It is known to have a quick onset of action and a short half-life. This medication can help individuals fall asleep faster and stay asleep for a longer duration (1).
On the other hand, Benadryl, which contains diphenhydramine, is an anti-histamine medication with a rapid onset of action. It has both anticholinergic and antihistaminic properties which make it useful in the management of various conditions such as cold, flu, sleeping disturbances, hay fever, and allergies (2).
What does research suggest?
According to research, patients who received a combination of Ambien and Benadryl exhibited a pharmacokinetic profile consistent with individually administered drugs. Sedative effects, assessed through various measures, manifested within half an hour postdose and lasted about 8 hours.
Despite altered plasma concentration curves for the delayed-release Ambien, this combination was well-tolerated, demonstrating its potential as a sedative combination (4).
However, another research study showed that the patients exhibited complex sleep behaviors like sleep-driving when prescribed Ambien combined with Benadryl. The interaction between these medications, considering Ambien’s protein binding capacity, raises concerns about potential side effects such as complex sleep behavior (3).
What are the benefits of combining Ambien and Benadryl?
Combining Benadryl and Ambien may have potential benefits for some individuals due to their different mechanisms of action. By combining these medications, individuals may experience enhanced sedation, potentially aiding in sleep initiation. This combination may also help address difficulties with sleep onset. Additionally, the prolonged sedative effect of the combination may aid in maintaining sleep throughout the night.
It’s important to note that combining medications can also have potential risks and side effects, so it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before taking this medication combination.
What are the risks of combining Ambien and Benadryl?
It is crucial to monitor the combination of Ambien and Benadryl closely due to the potential for serious additive effects that may occur in some individuals. These effects include increased sedation, impaired cognitive function, respiratory depression, dizziness, and memory impairment.
Combining these medications can result in an additive sedative effect, leading to increased drowsiness and a higher risk of accidents or falls. It may also impair cognitive function and concentration, affecting your ability to perform tasks that require alertness and mental clarity.
Although uncommon, respiratory depression can occur, especially in individuals with respiratory conditions, which can be a serious and potentially life-threatening side effect. Additionally, combining these medications can intensify dizziness and lightheadedness, increasing the risk of falls.
There may also be an increased risk of memory impairment or confusion when combining these medications. Therefore, it is essential to be cautious when taking these medications together and to consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
What are alternatives to Benadryl for allergies while taking Ambien?
If you’re taking Ambien to help you sleep and need an alternative to Benadryl for allergies, there are several non-sedating antihistamines you can consider.
Some of these medications may include Cetirizine, Loratadine, and Fexofenadine. These alternatives generally have less sedating effects than Benadryl, which can be important if you’re trying to avoid excessive drowsiness when taking Ambien.
However, before making any changes to your medications, it’s crucial to consult your healthcare provider.
In my perspective as a pharmacist, the combination of Benadryl and Ambien warrants careful consideration and should be approached with caution. While there may be potential benefits, it’s crucial to acknowledge the risks associated with combining medications, including the potential for increased side effects and interactions.
Patient safety is paramount, and any decision to use this combination should be made under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional. As with any medication regimen, individual responses may vary, and close monitoring is essential to ensure the best possible outcomes.
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References
1.-
Bouchette D, Akhondi H, Quick J. Zolpidem. 2022 Oct 1. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 28723037. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28723037/
2.-
Huynh DA, Abbas M, Dabaja A. Diphenhydramine Toxicity. 2023 Apr 29. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 32491510. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32491510/
3.-
Barman, Rajdip & Detweiler, Mark. (2020). Diphenhydramine Associated Complex Sleep Behaviors in an Individual stable on Zolpidem: Case Report & Literature Review. Asian Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology. 6. 10.31024/ajpp.2020.6.3.4. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/343333291
4.-
Dahl T, Chen LB, Scheinin M, Suopanki-Lalowski J, Valge M, Puhakka A, Mikola H, Lovró Z, Meierjohann A, Vuorilehto L, Roth T. Pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic profile of SM-1, a triple-drug combination to increase total sleep time. Hum Psychopharmacol. 2019 Nov;34(6):e2716. doi: 10.1002/hup.2716. Epub 2019 Dec 3. PMID: 31794072. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31794072/
