If you're reading this article, then chances are that you're one curious cat. Or a dog. Or a bird maybe? Well, whatever the case may be, we don't judge here so feel free to stick around and learn how mixing Robitussin and Benadryl can either cure your ailments or land you in the emergency room.
What is Robitussin?
First things first - what exactly is Robitussin? For those who aren't familiar with it, Robitussin is essentially cough syrup used to relieve symptoms of colds and flu. Its active ingredient (dextromethorphan) works by suppressing cough reflexes in the brain.
How Does It Work?
Dextromethorphan acts on sigma-1 receptors in the central nervous system which helps ease various types of coughing such as dry coughing caused by infections like coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
What About Benadryl?
Benadryl, on the other hand, is an antihistamine drug primarily used for allergies but also relieves nausea/vomiting and motion sickness. Its main active ingredient (diphenhydramine) works by blocking histamines which causes allergy symptoms such as itching, sneezing or runny nose.
Can You Take Them Together?
The short answer would be yes! Both drugs have different purposes although they do share some similarities when taken together. It's not uncommon for people to mix them due to their drowsy side effects.
The Pros
One advantage of taking both medications together could be that it enhances their joint effectivity thus quickens symptom relief especially if you're plagued with intense symptoms caused by allergies combined with cold/flu-like malaise.
Another upside would be convenience since they can be bought over-the-counter without prescriptions. You can easily find them in most drug stores around and who knows, you might even get a discount for buying two!
The Cons
But alas, with the good often comes the bad. Mindlessly taking any form of medication or combinations of can lead to unintended consequences like drug interactions.
A possible disadvantage would be that Robitussin contains acetaminophen which may increase risks of liver toxicity when taken excessively hence posing health hazards especially if mixed with Benadryl which also intervenes with hepatic metabolism pathways in some people hence causing complications such as jaundice or hepatitis.
Furthermore, taking too much benadryl could pose another threat. If consumed beyond the recommended dose amount, it could cause respiratory depression thereby increasing chances of suffocation while sleeping.
What Are The Risks Involved?
Now let's delve deeper into why mixing cough syrup and allergy medication isn't always sunshine and roses.
Dizziness And Drowsiness
Both Robitussin and Benadryl are known to cause drowsy effects on their own even more so when combined together they'll induce sleep thus making life increasingly difficult for individuals operating heavy machinery or those attempting to break world records by staying awake longer than 11 days straight! [1]
The labels caution users against combining it with alcohol due to potential dizziness whatsoever drinking alcohol should never involve any respiratory inhibitors - this is not a fun night out where death would take away everyone's buzz!
Another instance we do not want anyone else finding themselves struggling is driving impaired because their thinking is cloudy resulting from being lethargic so no one wants an accident caused simply they couldn't handle their high.
Respiratory Depressions
Robitussin works as a depressant meaning it inhibits your breathing (can have negative hepatotoxic issues combined with other substances) whereas diphenhydramine (Benadryl) has sedative effects which lower the heart rate thus reducing oxygen flow as well.
If you are suffering from respiratory disorders, taking any of these two drugs together might cause more trouble than good since it could lead to serious lung problems.
Hallucinations And Delirium
Another side effect of this combo is hallucination and delirium (otherwise known as robo-tripping) which can occur even at normal recommended dosages so there's really no saying what will happen when putting them together; therefore, once again we advise against this considering its potential dangers.
What Are The Safe Dosage Levels?
For those who still feel bold enough to take both medications with each other, we've compiled a safe dosage chart for you:
| User Age | Robitussin maximum dose(mg/day) | Diphenhydramine Maximum Dose (mg/day) |
|---|---|---|
| 12 years old | 120 mg | 50 mg |
| Adults | 2400-3000mg | 50-75mg |
Note that the above permitted limits apply when taken separately but not with each other hence rules should be used with caution without leaving anything to chance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mixing Benadryl and Robitussin isn't altogether unsafe only if done right by strictly following the recommended milligram measurements. Much like running in traffic-safe if wearing reflective gear and crossing at rightly marked intersections - otherwise easily leading to disaster!
However,you wouldn't want your quest for immediate relief turning out far worse than what agony you were experiencing before.So please always consult medical professionals/pharmacists before making any decisions furthering self-medication practices irrespective on how familiar one may seem paired up relative due diligence never hurt anyone. Stay safe folks!