Mashable: The FDA has issued repeated warnings against the Benadryl Challenge.

A dangerous trend has been circulating on TikTok, and it's known as the 'Benadryl Challenge'. While TikTok challenges are nothing new, this particular trend has been gaining popularity and causing concern. A 13-year-old kid in Ohio unfortunately passed away from an overdose of the over-the-counter medication Benadryl while attempting the challenge.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued repeated warnings against the Benadryl Challenge, as higher doses of the sedating antihistamine diphenhydramine found in Benadryl can lead to severe health issues such as heart problems, coma, and even death. While diphenhydramine is safe and effective when used under the supervision of a physician, taking excessive amounts can be incredibly dangerous.

According to a report by the New York Post, the Benadryl Challenge gained popularity in 2020 when teenagers began uploading their attempts to induce hallucinations on the video-sharing platform. However, the trend has since been deemed dangerous due to the potential risks associated with overdosing on the medication.

Disorientation, dry mouth and other mucous membranes, a high body temperature, difficulty urinating, dilated pupils, and a rapid heartbeat are some of the warning signs and symptoms of a mild to severe Benadryl overdose. In severe overdose cases, a person can suffer from delirium, hallucinations, seizures, irregular heart rates, and low blood pressure. Diphenhydramine overdose can also result in death if left untreated.

The TikTok Benadryl Challenge: A Deadly Dare

The Dangers of the TikTok Benadryl Challenge! pic.twitter.com/PcnG10Dfct

— AmericanFrontlineNurses (@AFLN2021) April 19, 2023
It's crucial to educate and warn young people about the dangers of the Benadryl Challenge and discourage participation in this viral trend.