Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Benadryl
Introduction
Benadryl is a brand name that Johnson & Johnson (acquired fall 2006) and Pfizer use for several different allergy medicines.
- In the U.S., Benadryl is diphenhydramine, a first generation antihistamine. It is also formulated in combination with other active ingredients and sold under variations of the Benadryl name.
- In the U.K., Benadryl Allergy Relief is acrivastine, a second generation antihistamine.
- In the U.K., Benadryl Once a Day is cetirizine, a second generation antihistamine.