Clinical pearls for safer, smarter diphenhydramine use in kids.
Prefer non‑sedating antihistamines for daily allergic rhinitis; reserve diphenhydramine for acute hives/itching
A subset of children become more restless and agitated—stop and switch agents
Avoid multi‑symptom OTC cough/cold combinations in young children
Avoid routine use of sedating antihistamines for cough/cold in young children
Use diphenhydramine for cold symptoms
Avoid for cold symptoms; use supportive care
Impact: Fewer adverse effects and safer care