Some Nipissing First Nation youth and young adults are following a trend of purposely overdosing on Benadryl, a common allergy medicine. Some youth may think the effects feel exciting or different. There are no safe or positive effects from taking high doses, only serious risks.
Important: Antihistamines like Benadryl are drugs. There is a safe limit to how much a person can take. This depends on:
- Age and body size
- The type and amount taken
- Health conditions
- Other medicines being used
Signs of overdose to watch for in youth:
- Very excited or jittery
- Fast heartbeat
- Irritability
- Seeing or hearing things that are not real (hallucinations)
- Seizures
Serious symptoms that can follow
- Extreme sleepiness
- Slow breathing
- Trouble peeing (urinary retention)
- Loss of consciousness (coma)
- Death
What to do right away
- Call 911 or go to the nearest hospital if you think someone has overdosed
- Stay with the person and keep them awake if you can
- Bring the medicine bottle to show health workers
Support and Resources Available to You
We encourage you to reach out if you need support or have concerns:
The Right Path Counselling and Prevention Services:
316 Ted Commanda Drive, Garden Village
705-753-1375
Other Inquiries
Director of Health Services
705-978-1777
