Benadryl: FSA Eligibility

What is Benadryl and what does it treat?

Benadryl is one of the most popular antihistamines on the market that treats a wide variety of allergic symptoms that can arise year-round. Benadryl utilizes the active ingredient diphenhydramine, that acts as a histamine blocker in the body to combat the effects of allergies, including itching, watery eyes, nasal and throat congestion. Additionally, Benadryl can be used to fight symptoms of the common cold, such as sneezing or runny noses. The product is available in tablets, liquid, topical anti-itch creams and nasal sprays for both children and adults.

What is an antihistamine?

Antihistamines are over-the-counter (OTC) medicines that are used to block the body's production of histamine, which is produced during the body's inflammatory response to the presence of an allergen or another microbe that the body views as an invader. Antihistamines work by blocking the histamine receptors in each cell, so as histamine travels throughout the body, it cannot activate these receptors and affect the cell. Without the use of antihistamines, common allergic symptoms like swelling, itching, nasal and lung congestion and others will continue as long as allergens are present (WebMD).

What conditions does Benadryl treat?

Benadryl is primarily used to combat the body's inflammatory response to allergens, but it also plays a major role in managing the symptoms of the following conditions via WebMD:

• Mild or moderate reactions to food allergies (severe reactions require medical attention)
• Hay Fever/Allergic Rhinitis
• Allergic Conjunctivitis
• Allergic Skin Conditions (eczema, hives)
• Insect Bites and Stings
• Motion Sickness
• Insomnia
• Stomach Ulcers