Oral BENADRYL® is an antihistamine that is used for the relief of symptoms related to hay fever, upper respiratory allergies, or cold symptoms. The active ingredient in BENADRYL®, diphenhydramine hydrochloride, works by blocking histamine that your body makes during an allergic reaction, and by drying secretions related to symptoms like watery eyes and runny nose.
Topical BENADRYL® is applied to the skin for relief of itching associated with insect bites, sunburn, scrapes, minor skin irritation, minor burns, and rashes caused by poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac. Topical BENADRYL® also contains the active ingredient diphenhydramine hydrochloride, which works as an analgesic (pain reliever) when applied topically. Several topical BENADRYL® products, including sticks, sprays, and creams, also contain the active ingredient zinc acetate, which works as a skin protectant.
