Diphenhydramine, commonly sold under the brand name Benadryl, is an antihistamine primarily used to relieve symptoms of allergies, hay fever, and the common cold. It works by blocking histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms. Because it is an over-the-counter medication, concerns may arise regarding its potential detection in standard drug screenings.
Understanding whether readily available medications interfere with the accuracy or interpretation of workplace or legal drug testing is crucial. A false positive result could have significant consequences for an individual’s employment or legal standing. Considering the widespread use of antihistamines, clarification on this matter is essential for both individuals and organizations that administer drug screenings.