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Drug interactions

Diphenhydramine + Meprobamate

Severity: Moderate

Diphenhydramine and Meprobamate: moderate interaction.

Last updated

For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.

Summary

Meprobamate is a sedative-anxiolytic and diphenhydramine is a sedating antihistamine, so combined use increases drowsiness and psychomotor impairment. Falls and confusion are more likely in older patients.

What this interaction means in plain words

Diphenhydramine and Meprobamate can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Additive CNS depression.

What to do

Use the lowest effective doses and warn about driving and alcohol. Avoid in older adults where possible.

What to ask your pharmacist

  • Should I take them at different times of day?
  • Does the dose of either medicine need to change?
  • Is there anything I should avoid, such as alcohol or certain foods, while on both?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Diphenhydramine with Meprobamate?

MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Diphenhydramine and Meprobamate can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken. Meprobamate is a sedative-anxiolytic and diphenhydramine is a sedating antihistamine, so combined use increases drowsiness and psychomotor impairment. Falls and confusion are more likely in older patients.

How serious is the interaction between Diphenhydramine and Meprobamate?

MediHelp rates it moderate, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Use the lowest effective doses and warn about driving and alcohol. Avoid in older adults where possible.

What other medicines interact with Diphenhydramine?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Diphenhydramine with, for example, Alfentanil, Belladonna and opium, Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen. The full list is on the Diphenhydramine page.

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