Diabetes affects the body’s natural ability to regulate blood sugar levels. For those living with Diabetes, they must learn how to manage and monitor their blood sugar to prevent severe and irreversible complications. They should watch out for what they eat, drink, and basically anything that they ingest, including medications.
Taking medications should be done with careful consideration. Yet can diabetics take benadryl? This is an over-the-counter medication that is commonly used to treat allergies. Without proper knowledge of the implications that it can have for individuals with diabetes, taking this medication can be life-threatening. Before you do so, make sure that you read the information below.
Benadryl Formulation to Consider
People living with diabetes should be aware that there are some forms of Benadryl that contain sugar or alcohol. And if you are struggling to keep your blood sugar levels normal, then you must be aware that taking Benadryl may have an effect on your glucose levels.
Before you take any medications, in this case, Benadryl, you have to make sure you read the labels. Choose to use products that don’t include any sugar or alcohol. It is best that you check with your doctor or pharmacist first to make sure it is safe and appropriate for your condition to take the medication.
Potential Side Effects of Benadryl
Like other medications, taking Benadryl may have side effects. And how one person responds to the medication may be different from the other. While it is generally considered safe for most people to take Benadryl, these are the possible side effects:
- Blurred vision
- Constipation
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Excitability
- Headache
- Nausea
- Rare allergic reactions
- Restlessness
- Urinary retention
Benadryl’s Interaction With Other Medications
If you are taking other medications to help control your blood sugar levels, it is best that you talk to your doctor because Benadryl may also interact with them. This is crucial to do if you have Diabetes or other health conditions.
Benadryl’s sedative effects or those of other medications may be amplified. In this case, your doctor will be able to prescribe the right dosage of Benadryl for you. Before taking Benadryl, it’s important to talk to your doctor about the benefits or the possible risks that may come with it.
How Benadryl Affects Blood Sugar Levels
Benadryl may have an indirect effect on glucose levels. Like other antihistamines, Benadryl has been linked to impaired glucose metabolism and insulin resistance in different research. There’s always a risk that this will cause blood sugar levels to rise.
However, further study is required to properly understand the effects of Benadryl on people with Diabetes, and how important it is to use them carefully. Diabetic patients taking Benadryl should make sure that they keep a close eye on their blood sugar levels.
Take Benadryl With Careful Consideration
It is very important for diabetics to remember that they should use Benadryl or other medications with caution. To ensure your safety, always take the time to read labels. Make sure that you choose medications that are sugar-free and alcohol-free. And most importantly, consult a healthcare provider or pharmacist first.
