A resurgence of diphenhydramine (Benadryl) misuse, linked to a social media trend encouraging high-dose consumption, has been reported across multiple states, coinciding with a significant increase in poison control calls and confirmed deaths among adolescents.
Connecticut Deaths Under Investigation
The Connecticut Office of the Child Advocate (OCA) has confirmed that three children died from overdoses of diphenhydramine over a two-month period. The victims' specific ages and locations have not been publicly released. The OCA stated that it is unclear if these deaths are directly linked to a social media challenge. The deaths remain under investigation by state authorities.
A family friend of one victim reported that a 13-year-old in Waterbury obtained Benadryl via DoorDash without an ID check.
Poison Center Data and National Trends
According to an advisory from America's Poison Centers, calls to poison centers involving diphenhydramine and teens aged 13-19 in the first five months of 2026 totaled 6,179. This figure is more than double the number reported during the same period in 2025. The advisory states that the increase appears to be driven by intentional abuse rather than accidental errors.
In 2025, there were 13,284 calls involving diphenhydramine among teens, a 32% increase from 10,068 in 2024. Data indicates that in 2026, 13.2% of teen diphenhydramine-only cases were linked to intentional abuse, up from 7.3% in 2020.
Local Medical Responses
Cook Children's emergency department in Texas reported one recent death and over 100 Benadryl overdose cases in the last six months. Dr. Stephanie Felton, associate medical director, noted that the current number of overdoses is lower than in 2020 but remains concerning. Dr. Krishnan Narasimhan, head of family medicine at Stamford Hospital, described the three deaths in Connecticut as unusual and concerning.
Characteristics of the Trend
Social media users have documented taking excessive doses of diphenhydramine to overcome drowsiness and experience euphoria or hallucinations. The trend, sometimes referred to as the "Benadryl Challenge," first appeared on TikTok in 2020. The challenge reportedly involves taking up to 24 tablets in a 24-hour period, which is double the recommended adult dosage.
Medical Consequences
Overdosing on diphenhydramine can cause a range of medical complications. Symptoms of severe overdose include agitation, hallucinations, seizures, dangerous heart rhythm problems, and loss of consciousness. The FDA states that misuse can lead to serious heart problems, coma, or death. A 14-year-old female was reported to have experienced a seizure after participating in the trend.
Official Statements
- Kenvue, the manufacturer of Benadryl, stated that the social media trend promoting misuse is extremely dangerous and should stop.
- The FDA issued a warning in 2020 about the dangers of high doses of diphenhydramine, advised parents to store the medication safely, and urged TikTok to remove related videos. The FDA is investigating current reports and will update the public.
- The Connecticut Office of the Child Advocate stated: "What is most important is that providers and parents be aware that adolescents may misuse the medication." The OCA urged parents to store all medications safely and out of reach.
- Pediatric resident physician Noelia Swymeler noted that continued spikes in harmful diphenhydramine use demonstrate the power of social media trends.
Medical Recommendations
Doctors recommend that families secure all medications. The FDA advises storing diphenhydramine and all medicines out of children's reach and sight, preferably in a locked location. Consumers are advised to read the "Drug Facts" label to determine if a medicine contains diphenhydramine and to follow proper dosage instructions.
For poison-related questions or emergencies, contact Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222 or visit PoisonHelp.org.