How Antihistamines May Solve Your Problems

When you think of antihistamines, you're probably only thinking about getting rid of a runny nose, congestion or a common cold. However we're learning that antihistamines can be used for nausea, insomnia, and even... depression? Join Hank and learn more in this new episode of SciShow!
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[@pablogarin]

I was bit by a brown recluse on 2019. It was a nasty bite, and I took loratadine as a precaution. That saved my life: It turned out that I was allergic to the spider's toxin, and taking an antihistamine just after the bite prevented me from suffering an anaphylactic shock. I also spent 2 weeks in ICU because of the reaction I had (My body filled with red spots or rash, all my joints swelled, and I had trouble breathing), and after that, 2 additional weeks due to an infection in the necrotic tissue I developed on the bite (it was a 5in x 2in patch of necrotic tissue). The doctors said that taking that loratadine was a double saver since it prevented damage to my organs by the spider bite, a condition called systemic loxoscelism. They also tested me for allergies and the result was positive. I still have the spider. BTW: I´ve always been arachnophobic, and I feel like I´ve earned my right to be xD

[@foxylovelace2679]

This is useful information. Thank you! And glad you're doing well.

[@tomorrow4eva]

I agree, you have just cause for arachnophobia.

[@anassorbestiak]

What do you mean by you still have the spider???

[@TychoKingdom]

@@anassorbestiak when you get bitten by a spider or a snake you are supposed to catch the animal and take it to the hospital even if it's dead. That probably what Op did and they still have the spider that bit them.

[@pablogarin]

@@anassorbestiak I felt the spider bitting, and, as a reflex, I hit it with my open palm, killing it while it was bitting me (which made it release more venom)... I picked it up, placed it on a jar to take it to the hospital, and then later encased it in resin...

[@tsgillespiejr]

One receptor to find them all, and in the body bind them...

[@dyscea]

I’d watch this trilogy.

[@MCC4RTHY1]

Very good dear sir, very good.

[@pseudonym7606]

Bravo 👏

[@princcess0139]

MAST CELLS

[@evanmhardin]

Couldn’t help yourself could you.

[@Methuzala777]

This video reminded me of videos from 5 plus years ago. No extra ad content in the middle or beginning. It was very nice.

[@TheCooKiwiKlan]

"Hey doc I'm sad" "You're just allergic to life. Here's a benadryl. " "Understandable have a nice day"

[@kellymcphaul2793]

Oh my god, this is hilarious.

[@mikev8500]

@@kellymcphaul2793 made even better that in high doses its the most powerful halucinegen ive ever expirianced

[@kellymcphaul2793]

@@mikev8500 Well I keep it to two but I know some people have fun with it lol

[@vorpal22]

@@mikev8500 It's a true hallucinogen, but it's not a very pleasant one. And no, you don't want Benadryl: you want pure diphenhydramine. Benadryl is a mixture of diphenhydramine and another drug. Diphenhydramine is the deliriant hallucinogen, and it gets a lot of people into big trouble because higher critical thinking facilities are turned off.

[@tommydude969]

@@vorpal22 interesting...to the drug store!

[@phredshunkie3487]

I love that Hank is learning this stuff the same time we are.

[@MarieDomander]

Yeah its seems like ones algorithm is linked in some way.

[@mdhaynie]

I still like to think Hank has a doctorate in everything

[@christeamhound]

You should follow his TikTok

[@kms3530]

Hahahahahahhahahha

[@lorijudd2151]

Proving, once again, that it is good to keep learning all your life, not just in school.

[@amandam8623]

Sometimes these meds really help the patient. Benadryl for nausea. Vistiril for anxiety, sleep, insomnia. Even withdrawal. Other things too. It's neat. Yall I didn't post to offer medical advice. I just responded to scishow because I think this is interesting. Ask your doctor if you need medical advice.

[@TheRarest1]

can vistiril hep adhd to.

[@amandam8623]

@@TheRarest1 that I don't know. I know it's used off label for other psych things. That's really something you should speak to your dr aabout.

[@la3615]

@@amandam8623 can u get vistril OTC?

[@LuchadorMasque]

Can confirm vistiril is great for anxiety. When I had my 1st panic attack, this was the 1st thing they gave me.

[@LuchadorMasque]

@@TheRarest1 no

[@raeperonneau4941]

Reading the comments on this channel is so interesting. Your viewers always add wisdom to the videos and that’s a super cool thing.

[@nenmaster5218]

I love recommending science-channel to science-fans. Silly hobby, some argue, but whatever! Interested?

[@hurricane7800]

I was thinking the same thing! I love channels with friendly comment sections :)

[@DewtbArenatsiz]

Repeated doses of the COVID vaccine could cause anaphylaxis by the same method described in the video

[@argon3]

My dog developed a mast cell tumor. Prior to surgery the vet had me give her benedryl to shrink the tumor., make it easier to remove. 4 years and still no recurrences.

[@lauraleegreen7516]

How often did you give them Benadryl?

[@argon3]

1/2 pill daily for 7-10 days ahead of surgery. Stopped after the surgery. Shrinks existing MC tumors; no evidence it helps prevent.

[@Jenkins122]

Just an important note, that over using first generation antihistamines (for longer than than 3 years does have a significant correlation to dementia (granted it was only 800 volunteer but it's my worst fear) so try use the second generations like loratidine for chronic use

[@mattlm64]

I think it's just that they are anticholinergic and people with dementia have lesser acetylcholine signaling. Is there an actual connection?

[@duncanwatt4230]

I use cetirizine hydrochloride, is this first or second generation do you know ?

[@mattlm64]

@@duncanwatt4230 Cetirizine is a 2nd generation with low anticholinergic effects when taken at proper doses.

[@sandeesandwich2180]

My understanding that this is reversible, though. Elderly patients in hospital who had been given steady doses of antihistamines had a correlating loss of memory function, but when the doses were stopped, memory improved. If your older relatives suddenly develop dementia, it is very important to check their meds. (Which I'm sure you know, Jenkins, just mentioning it for general information.)

[@Jenkins122]

Paper is "Cumulative Use of Strong Anticholinergics and Incident Dementia A Prospective Cohort Study" it's not definite but anything that is a possible cause I'm staying well away from

[@limiv5272]

As someone who takes antihistamines twice a day for an apparent allergy to the universe, this was fascinating. I'm looking forward to the day we have a way to treat the root cause, like being able to destroy all B cells that react to a specific allergen without harming anything else.

[@macherie1234]

☺️ "apparent allergy to the universe"! When I was 8 yo, my first allergy testing report was four and a half columns long and the last item was "things in the air." I joked, "I guess I shouldn't breathe." My mother was not amused...

[@oopsy444]

@@macherie1234 sounds like a Karen. I'm so sorry for your parental situation

[@abbingm2307]

Eat twice a day(fasting,autophagy). No water 1hour before and 2hours after food-prevent dilution of digestive juices. Not milk products/ sugar/ fruits/ tea/ coffee . No packaged foods,drinks. No vegetable oil.Test for individual allergy triggers - most common body abusers,especially in large or frequent doses. Eat varieties of veg/ fish/ organ meats. A quality multi vitamin/ mineral supplement twice weekly. A quality omega 3 oil. A good magnesium supplement. - most nutritious foods/supplements. Take guidance of specialist functional medicine physician.- to get individual specific diagnosis and treatment guidance.

[@katelynfe]

Mast cell activation syndrome squad

[@Farvadude]

almost all drugs that act on a receptor to blockade it or activate it (including drugs that don't tell you they are) are physically addictive. if you've been using them nonstop forever then your body has probably upregulated your histamine receptor density to the point that you're hypersensitive to all allergens. if you can manage, try ceasing use for about 2 weeks and then try taking your normal dose again to test for any changes.

[@RaunienTheFirst]

A thought. There has been shown to be significant connections between the immune response and inflammation, and between trauma and inflammation, and between depression and inflammation. It's also well known that people remember traumatic events better, recall things better if they were in pain at the time, and that depression can negatively affect memory. Is it possible, therefore, that antihistamines, through their effect on the immune system (in particular by reducing the inflammation response), are indirectly regulating mood and memory?

[@ravenwolf7128]

Thank you for mentioning the connection between inflammation and trauma--I have many autoimmune problems (rheumatoid arthritis, migraines, eczema, food intolerances, chronic pain, chronic insomnia, --plus anxiety, depression) after a series of traumatic events that triggered total emotional burnout. Anti histamines help me with all of my symptoms, especially to fall asleep and get at least 5 hours sleep. Without antihistamines I'm lucky if I get 3 or 4 hours sleep. I'm chronically exhausted.

[@Shalkar]

Actually, yes. I would say so. I'm sure they're pouring tons of money into research. That's be huge for people, so a huge profit maker

[@OgdenM]

Yeap to the reduction in inflammation response regulating mood and memory. There was a recent study done on that with anti-inflammatory meds like ibprofin etc. You could even just take ibprofin to help with allergies.

[@sniperturtle1]

Yup, though the same.

[@kpl-CA]

"Significant connections"...? Inflammation is a *well known* part of immune system response. Practitioners are very aware of inflammation as part of immune response, and inflammation has been a part of Immunology for decades. The immune system has *two* sides, innate response and adaptive (sometimes called acquired) response.

[@aether222]

I South African Doctor found that the Lung issues with COVID is an allergic reaction to the spike protein, and that if you give aggressive doses of Antihistamine the problem resolves immediately, 100% success rate treating patients.

[@tumblingrosesstudio]

Can you provide a link to this study? Cautious

[@ketokarbs3671]

​@@tumblingrosesstudio youtube won't let the link go through

[@kathrin6078]

Nearly my whole family as histamine intolerance, but we all got it at different points in our lives, and by now I've realized we all got it because we have an extremely dyfunctional family and everyone got it after suffering psychological trauma. And it seems super weird, but when my PTSD gets activated, one of the things helping me in anti-histamines and well thank you, it makes sense now.

[@chlodoll]

This comment just made me realize something about my developing asthma as an adult. Thank you!

[@anyascelticcreations]

My dr just put me on an antihistamine for anxiety and insomnia. He also just disgnosed me with PTSD. When I took the first dose I almost immediately felt better. I wasn't expecting to feel much different at all and definitely not that fast. It calmed my essential tremor too. That was a huge surprise. I've taken lots of other antihistamines that didn't do any of that. But this one definitely does. Depending on what you take, I can see how they could help you feel better too.

[@prophetsam]

@@anyascelticcreationsto What Anti-Histimine were you put on? I suffer from both Allergies, & PTSD

[@anyascelticcreations]

@@prophetsam I'm actually on more than one antihistamine now. But the one that was prescribed for anxiety is Hydroxyzine. Specifically, Hydroxyzine Pam.

[@beckiwildeman600]

@@prophetsam Look up "Berberine Plus". This has been proven for many generations. Look up 31 Science-backed Berberine Benefits.

[@jessrose4301]

I have a rare chronic illness called Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome and this is the first time anyone has ever been able to explain to me why I'm on antihistamines daily.

[@jodic3300]

Sadly, cyclic vomitting syndrome is now relatively common. It can be caused by frequent use of marijuana and is improved by abstaining from marijuana

[@jessrose4301]

@@jodic3300that's actually called Cannabinoid Hyperemesis syndrome and can have similar symptoms but have different underlying causes.

[@Ash-mo7oc]

​@@jodic3300cyclic vomiting syndrome has no known cause as it's a type of migraine. People that do not do any form of recreational drugs get these. Please stop spreading misinformation just to spread political biases.

[@TaushaTW]

I knew a guy who was diagnosed with schizophrenia. The entire family went on a gluten free diet because his sister had celiac disease. The guy never suffered another episode of schizophrenia. It's like he never had it.

[@MariposaRedimida]

Love this kind of story, that's fascinating. Good for them.

[@DAFontayne]

This shows how very little medicine knows about mental health/illness & it's prevention, let alone treatment. Oh yeah & long term use of mind altering chemicals to all our bodies. So happy to hear a good story.

[@christinanichols-cooley5264]

Correlation does not equal causation 🤦🏽‍♀️

[@TaushaTW]

@@christinanichols-cooley5264 You can quote other people. Good for you!

[@jonathanhorvat2452]

@@christinanichols-cooley5264 does it really matter whether it was a causal relationship? don't you think the gentleman and his family were quite happy with the result, without having performed a scientific study on the exact cause? god forbid they just take note of the changes they made and got good results. in systems engineering of all types, it pays to pay attention to where changes have occurred and what results followed. not all results have an obvious causal connection to the changes that precipitate them. in the real world, results matter most, and being able to reproduce them helps.

[@kade6871]

I take hydroxyzine for anxiety/panic attacks. It definitely affects the brain, it chills me right out and I sleep better. And non addictive! Life saver.

[@fitztastico]

I'd love to see an explainer on "non-allergic rhinitis." Rather than my nose watering and sneezing, my nasal passages swell up and I feel exhausted and awful. It's legitimately debilitating and they don't even understand much about it though a significant percentage of people who think they have allergies actually have non-allergic rhinitis

[@bobman929]

I get this when I sit at a computer too long.

[@wiggiag]

Salt water mix and Neti pot

[@lelanicampher4813]

Some of my family members experience those symptoms after eating dairy. I and one of my children develop tjose symptoms after ingesting sulphites. We however also develop headache and stiff neck muscles. It helps if you can identify a possible trigger and then avoid. Hope it's something avoidable.

[@fitztastico]

@@lelanicampher4813 When I eat certain fast food I actually start draining buckets of stuff immediately out of my sinuses to the point where I am snorting and hacking stuff up while still eating. Unfortunately though, even though both a prick and blood draw allergy test a few years ago showed only an allergy to "box elder," the reality for me is that literally _life/outside_ is my trigger from May through October every year. I can even be inside all day with AC and still be miserable, but I have zero issues in the winter

[@fitztastico]

@@lelanicampher4813 I'm sorry to hear about your difficulty with sulphites - I know they are in quite a few things. A headache is quite an unpleasant side effect

[@frankied.roosevelt6232]

Mast cell activation related inflammatory and neuroinflammatory disease. 😬 (IV antihistamine dependent person here with chronic idiopathic anaphylaxis and systemic involvement range from my autonomic nervous system via small fibers, GI dismotility, bladder dysfunction, migraine, nausea, etc and antihistamines don't cure or fix the underlying problem, but they are keeping me alive until there is a way to treat the underlying comorbidities. Histamines are a mast cell mediator. Mast cells make up ALL connective tissue. Mast cell stabilizers like qucertin, doxipin, ketotifen, and cromolyn are good ones, too.

[@rachelkrouse]

I just made this connection a few weeks ago in my first trimester of pregnancy. I was on every med I could get prescribed and nothing brought nausea relief. Then ragweed season came to kill me and I started taking Benadryl daily and noticed I was less nauseous those days! Seriously wish I knew this for my first pregnancy, and wish my OB would have mentioned trying it. Finding nausea relief is so impactful when you can’t keep any food down! 🙏🏻 Preggo’s try it!

[@veryberry39]

Regarding the memory thing...anyone remember Flowers for Algernon? 😭😭😭

[@paperburn]

yes it was so very sad.

[@edie4321]

Yes! and the movie " Charly".

[@elonmusk745]

Bully game

[@MrLeafeater]

I had Benadryl prescribed as a sleep aid/antidepressant, back in the 90s. The sleep part worked...too well.

[@cathipalmer8217]

Benadryl knocks me out but doesn't let me sleep - it also makes me go to the bathroom every 15 minutes.

[@briantannenbaum8110]

Use small doses of melotonin

[@vysharra]

@@kw9696 Benadryl is bad as a sleep aid anyway. The full dose is active for way too long (which is why the depression side effects last too long) so you are sleepy well into the next day. It ‘works’, which is good in a pinch, but the possibility of negative side effects is awfully high. I get massive depression too. Just a terrible, black mood that’s pretty scary afterwards. I wonder which cyp enzyme it uses, I have a few recessive ones.

[@robertharris6092]

@@vysharra couldnt you just take a smaller dosage of liquid benadryl?

[@vysharra]

@@robertharris6092 no. You’re still getting the side effects along with the effects, if I feel the effects then I will definitely feel the bad side effects. I take a H2 antihistamine every day for my environmental allergies without issue but H1 antihistamines cross the blood-brain barrier and funk with my mood. I have some nasty food allergies (which you need H1 to help alleviate) but I just avoid -or suffer- because of the awful side effects. Luckily not everyone has this reaction but I wish it was more well known in case kids experience it. I wouldn’t wish that feeling on anyone but especially a child who wouldn’t know what was happening thanks to truly well meaning caregivers.

[@twalatka]

Benadryl healed my Mom's dog who had cancer. Vet recommended trying it. And it worked!!!

[@kristinsaysgah4257]

What kind of cancer did her dog have?

[@smantel7737]

Doggie benadryl or human kind. Cherry?

[@chriscorbin6980]

Benadryl is a brand name. Read the label and find the only active ingredient is diphenhydramine. You pay 4x (or more) for it. I buy the generic and save a ton.

[@SexyLilSeaOtter]

I suffer from severe insomnia and even when I do sleep I never enter REM sleep. I started taking benedryl every night and not only was I able to fall asleep no problem but I also started having normal sleep patterns and enter REM sleep every night (also gives very vivid intense dreams)

[@Aerafae]

Between my allergies and my interest in biochemistry I've been all over this topic, it's really fascinating. It's amazing but kind of a no brainer when you think about it, the body can just reuse the same factory design to produce the same chemicals, but just in different areas where they perform different jobs!

[@VincentGonzalezVeg]

Maybe you've learned about this maybe you haven't, there are reports of a country dust that is a punching bag type stressor for our immune systems that ever since we moved into more and more clean slash secluded cities we are deprived of it, causing illness I was able to find a edu article but it's a dig They were describing plans for administering this 'country dust' as a nasal spray To prevent allergies Like a flue shot

[@christianross6865]

Oh god our bodies are just a spaghetti-belt factory setup in factorio

[@AutisticWombot]

The body is just FULL of redundancies and copies of systems all over it!

[@AutisticWombot]

@@VincentGonzalezVeg interesting anecdote! I'm curious as to whether it may have an adverse effect? If you use it as a vaccine you may end up getting an overcompensatory anaphylactic response.

[@VincentGonzalezVeg]

@@AutisticWombot nope, like how pollution is always there kinda things Not a once and done; I used to go out camping for almost a month every summer, once I stopped doing this I started developing allergies, so I had continuous exposure yearly for a dosed period of time Along with going to parks and other places that are still in cities yet not as Feral

[@colinmunro3158]

Many people with Bipolar cannot take most antihistamines due to first-generation antihistamines triggering depressive symptoms, and non-drowsy antihistamines causing mania. The good news is that there are now antihistamines that are applied via nasal sprays that don't enter the bloodstream, meaning that the compounds don't reach the brain. Thus, people with bipolar can take antihistamine nasal sprays without fear of it destabilizing their mood. These nasal sprays are prescription-only, so consult your doctor if you think you might need one. Most of these nasal sprays also contain some type of steroid to treat the swelling associated with the nasal congestion that usually accompanies allergies. This increases the overall effectiveness of the nasal spray at treating allergies, but also means that these drugs need to be regulated more than other antihistamines.

[@vprice84]

I developed food allergies at the beginning of my pregnancy. To treat full body hives they gave me Zyrtec since pregnant people can't take steroids. I was delighted to find it also treated my morning sickness.

[@nenmaster5218]

I love recommending science-channel to science-fans. Silly hobby, some argue, but whatever! Interested?

[@stormevans6897]

This is such a fantastic video, I love that you have the entire history condensed into 12 minutes.

[@BRUXXUS]

I have ulcerative colitis and my second GI doctor (who was also a researcher), immediately has me start taking an antihistamine. He'd done studies showing they can help reduce autoimmune inflammation. It does help.

[@khawajadotd]

Which antihistamine? I'd like to look into the research.

[@mammajamma4397]

Really?!? I knew it!!!!!

[@BRUXXUS]

@@khawajadotd I think my reply to you may have been hidden or deleted..... If you want to look into the research, my doctor's name was Philip Miner. He basically just take anything that was on sale. I usually went with allegra.

[@BRUXXUS]

@@mammajamma4397 For IBD, it seems to be from an increase in mast cells in the places of the GI tract with inflammation.

[@Turtle-sz7sk]

I have UC but discontinued my cetrizine maybe I should start it again

[@thegriffinnews]

Learning about this type of molecular medical research makes me feel like I'm nine years old again listening to my mom read the string theory passage from A Wrinkle In Time. I sorta get it, but just enough that I know it's a BIG DEAL and will think about it for the next 3-5 business months. Edit: typo

[@Slommy99]

@@piitcs4416 oath

[@edwardcarrington3531]

Bruh ok young Einstein

[@MechakittenX]

Business months lmao!

[@philgrazi]

Came to your channel from some covid or vaccine video but I keep watching because you make videos like this! Keep us posted next time there's crazy anti histamine developments!

[@charlescastle4533]

No joke, I thought of this like 5 years ago when I noticed different types of antihistamine sometimes helped some of my other problems when I took them to treat my seasonal allergies.

[@SolidStateSR71]

Diphenhydramine is a life saver… also not surprised it could be used as a tranquilizer… I have to accept that I’ll be napping after taking it

[@whitenoise509]

It's used as a sleeping medicine, so close enough.

[@ElloMoto875]

Benadryl has been my family’s secret cure all since I was little 😂 I just thought everybody used it for nearly everything Like at one time I’m pretty sure I was having a heart attack and my grandma was like “take a couple Benadryls and stop whining”

[@NickAlexSR]

Definitely; Have been using it for insomnia/sleepless nights. Knocks me out for at least 7 or 8 hours, sometimes waaay longer...

[@realhousewifeoftransylvania1.0]

I heard it can cause memory loss and dementia patients shouldn't ever use it. Anybody heard if this?

[@NickAlexSR]

For older adults 65+ yes, it is generally not recommended. Can have a few other unpleasant side effects too. How common they are? No clue. Throw in many other factors, conditions, past medical history, then who knows! But for safety I'd definitely believe it.

[@JSJSpeaks]

Benadryl helps me with everything. I was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s in late 2017, and it has been my most consistently effective medication for issues ranging from infusions to sleep. Tolerance is mild and it is continuing to help me heal.

[@Get2thecart]

I want you to know I wish you all the best, and hope you pull a full recovery : )

[@stefankral1264]

Good you found something that works for you! All the best, s.

[@tammystockley-loughlin7680]

Use what works. Positive vibes from New Hampshire, remember to be kind to each other and yourself during this pandemic and social crisis

[@joeyconvery2055]

Jessica Smiled Hi Jessica, do you take it everyday? Any side effects?

[@OttawaAndy]

It will also treat withdrawal symptoms from anti-depressants, or anything that messes with seratonin levels: most instantly, even with the worst symptoms. Cymbalta withdrawal just about did me in, but Benadryl cured me.

[@apocalypse487]

Zantac has been relabeled at Famotidine, fyi. As a pharmacy technician, I see antihistamines used for way more than what's indicated for labeled usage. Just common sense, please talk to your doctor or a pharmacist before taking these meds. Other OTC (over the counter) meds interact with them as well.

[@TessaBain]

Indeed. I came upon a new allergy a few years back and realized the cetirizine I had been taking for it dried up my post nasal drip too. My brother has PND much worse than mine so I kept suggesting he check to make sure it didn't interact with his other meds because he was constantly coughing up a storm. Eventually he remembered, got the okay, tried them, found out what a huge relief they gave him too, and now takes them daily as well. Don't just take them randomly.

[@titusabraham4184]

Famotidine is the generic for Pepcid. Zantac is ranitidine. Both are H2 blockers but as the show notes, ranitidine/Zantac is not on the market currently.

[@lindamcneil711]

Histamine inhibitors are very important and are off label used a lot from doctors. For diseases dealing with the mast cells they are used a lot… in high doses. This is both H1 and H2 inhibitors. Yes, talk to your doctor, but realize doctors often recommend this.

[@khills]

@@titusabraham4184 Zantac actually is back on the market…but now it’s made with famotidine.

[@titusabraham4184]

@@khills thanks for the information

[@und3rcut535]

There are two more histamine receptors I work on a team that is researchimg them you will probably hear about it 1 year later. I wanted this comment section to be the first to know

[@everentropy]

That's very cool! As someone with a disorder that involves histamine (Mast Cell Activation Syndrome) hopefully that will lead to new treatments!

[@robertvondarth1730]

What histamine receptor is associated with orgasm?

[@CF.]

Update please? 😊

[@jadie1272]

Yeee I'd like an update with a link or something to the results!

[@DILFDylF]

It's been 2 years Mr. Scientist, let's see the study 🧐

[@daisydo7669]

I took a benedryl last night cause my eczema was getting really bad and I woke up with less lupus pain too! It was wild!

[@axiomaticidioms3857]

Be careful because antihistamines can dry you out more when you have lupus, sjögrens syndrome, etc.

[@itme999]

I'm prescribed hydroxyzine for my anxiety but it's also good for motion sickness, sleep, and actual allergies. (Great for sleeping on planes and not feeling nauseated.) Good stuff!

[@sasha-taylor]

A few more antihistamine facts I know off the top of my head: Antihistamines are also used to treat anxiety, in the case of hydroxyzine. Seroquel (quetiapine, antipsychotics) is a strong H1 antagonist among its many other effects on the brain, and it's believed to be a component of its method of action. On the topic of first generation vs second generation antihistamines, another important improvement they make was the limitation of anticholinergic side effects. These are the dry mouth, vasoconstriction, and very importantly, wild deliriant-type hallucinations caused by many first-generation antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (benadryl, many many other brand names). It's very interesting to me that diphenhydramine remains by far the most widely available of all the antihistamines even though it's known, almost notoriously so, for these side effects, and we have many other options with the same therapeutic index and fewer side effects.

[@Andrewkosche]

I’ve actually taken all of these meds. I’m also prescribed some loratidine for allergies, and it works but when allergies are bad Benadryl is the only thing that helps, despite the side effects it’s worth it for me sometimes

[@sasha-taylor]

@@Andrewkosche I've also taken all I listed and a few others. Quetiapine was horrid for me, I take loratadine for allergies since cetirizine doesn't seem to work well anymore, I've been prescribed hydroxyzine for anxiety and sleep, I've had promethazine (with codeine) during an episode of strep throat, I use diphenhydramine for breakthrough allergies and anaphylaxis, I've had the almost identical diphenhydrinate as well, and I find doxylamine, aka unisom, to work very well for sleep and breakthrough allergies if I can manage the long duration of action. They've started transitioning unisom to diphenhydramine though so it's harder to find. It has far fewer of the unpleasant side effects of Benadryl, but the long legs can be a positive or negative depending on the situation.

[@megelizabeth9492]

Partly, it might just be that most of the 2d generation antihistamines usually tend to work better when taken on a sustained basis, and don’t work quite as well for the occasional isolated allergy exposure or flare up. (visiting a friend that has cats when you are allergic for example.)

[@megelizabeth9492]

First generation antihistamines also tend to work better for colds, which can be important for people who can’t take decongestants because of high blood pressure, interactions with other medications, allergies, etc.

[@pellaw8011]

I'm currently on Hydroxyzine - prescribed off label for ADHD, weirdly enough.

[@rudythekidd5158]

Wow this touches on my findings that combining Benadryl with sumatriptan makes it more effective at knocking out my headaches.

[@greensheen8759]

Interesting, does Aleve + sumatriptan help for you as well?

[@susanne5803]

I had an old antihistamine prescribed as anxiety release during a severe burnout. The main symptom was uncontrollable shaking so severe I couldn't sleep. It really suppressed this trembling well and permitted recovery. I later discovered it was originally one of the earliest antihistamines making allergic people extremely tired as a side effect. I found out because I asked my therapist why I had nearly no allergy symptoms during those spring weeks. As soon as my burnout got better the medication started making me extremely tired as well. And when I reduced it hayfever returned with a vengeance.

[@TaushaTW]

Being dehydrated releases histamines. Please stay hydrated if you take antihistamines, have allergies, etc.

[@Stormingblessed]

As someone with bad allergies & hives, this is one of my fav videos in recent memory. Ty for the cool info!

[@deathrabbit8710]

Antihistamines make me TRIP OUT. Last time I tried them I started seeing tracers, couldn't properly perceive distance and reach for things. Ended up heading to bed and then sleeping for twelve hours. I have no idea why they effect me this way.

[@snazzypazzy]

You might be a slow metabolizer. Do you have a lot of side effects with other meds? Some people metabolize certain drugs really slowly (or quickly) and they often have a lot of more side effects. It's a genetic variation and can be tested if needed.

[@cecee3480]

Same. I was prescribed one for sleeping and I could not move when I would wake up. It was one of the most horrible physical reactions I had to a drug.

[@waltersobchak7275]

Don’t take that crap. I’m positive it messed my heart up. Never I mean ever had a problem with my heart rhythm. I had been taking Benadryl for sleep like five nights in a row. Age 26. Woke up one night after taking one and my heart was pounding and I was all dried out feeling. Heart started skipping a beat every fifteen seconds. Was very scary. Went to the hospital and they hooked me up to ekg. Something wrong with the valve sticking. They blamed drugs only problem is I didn’t do any drugs of any kind. Never had. They absolutely would not buy that diphenhydramine was to blame. It was. I haven’t took it since but still have the friggin heart skip 💩. Only if I get really excited or exercise or stressed out. Never had this problem the 26 years before I took it.

[@herrkulor3771]

That doesn't sound like cetirizine. Anyway I only need a nose spray of antihistamin to take care of my dust mite and grass allergy.

[@grimmscuriosities9411]

I take Cymbalta, which has bad withdrawals if you miss even a day (which I do, often). If I forget to get it refilled (which I do, often), I’ve found I can take Benadryl to help tame those withdrawals. My doc even prescribed me Benadryl (so I didn’t have to buy it, low income) when we started weaning me off of it.

[@ashleybish0p]

I same the same problem with forgetting to take my cymbalta at times. The brain zaps and increased body pain is no joke. Last but not least, seems like it takes it a while to begin improving depression symptoms if I forget to take it. I'll do good for a while and then before I know it...it has been a few days without it.

[@kelsherselves9531]

Same. I was on it and had horrible panic attacks and depression when I stopped taking it (it was affecting my gut health) Benadryl is one of the only things that helped me get through it

[@ashleybish0p]

@@kelsherselves9531 Affecting your gut health how if you don't mind me asking? I'm wondering if the medication is a reason why I'm having issues. Had I known it was a difficult drug to wean off of I I would've never started taking it. I'm already in recovery from addiction so I'm just over ball & chain medications at this point!!

[@kelsherselves9531]

@@ashleybish0p I'm not certain, but I have a problem with getting enough nutrition, especially folate & I think cymbalta can affect your ability to absorb folate specifically. I'm not a medical professional at all though, so please fact check me- it seemed to make me much more light sensitive & have digestion issues. Again tho, I have psoriatic arthritis, which changes things for me. Totally ask your doc if you can to do an autoimmune panel for you if you're having histamine issues and anxiety, bc evidently they can be related to autoimmune conditions & they dont always think to check. Hang in there friend

[@nickim6571]

I didn't know about the bad withdrawal frim Cymbalta until I tried to quit taking it--miserable.

[@aleafa]

As someone with hella environmental allergies, I always have Benadryl on hand, and have long used its drowsy properties for sleepless nights! I was even prescribed a stronger antihistamine for anxiety for the same drowsy calming side effects. So nice we now know how versatile these meds are!

[@DarkMatterThaFirst]

Be careful with long term benadryl use. Research says it's indicated in being associated with dementia.

[@lila-gracenunyasun1334]

If I hadn't stumbled across Hanks 'Carbon is a w**re' I wouldn't be a biotechnologist today - organic chem was my kryptonite

[@kamealh]

carbon is a what!!??

[@Soleilune1995]

@@kamealh it's a w**re

[@thenoblegasargon]

Funny, I saw the same video and became a w**re. That title, though, wow. It must be difficult to grow up in the internet with every dumb thing you ever said still hanging around, waiting to reemerge and embarrass you.

[@lila-gracenunyasun1334]

@@kamealh Carbon will 'get with anything' so she's a w**re 😂

[@lila-gracenunyasun1334]

@@thenoblegasargon it must be embarassing to be so uptight over a silly video name. Seeing as carbon will 'get with anything' aka bond.. I think the title is fitting.

[@santiagobenites]

Taking Benadryl / Diphenhydramine triggered terrible restless leg syndrome (which I never get otherwise), so that one is a big no-no for me.

[@aponiaa]

So strange that this video was just released yesterday, as today I was prescribed Vistaril and I thought it was strange that an antihistamine could be an effective treatment for anxiety. The timing was on point!

[@WinkLinkletter]

How is your Vistaril treatment working out?

[@Cinnmnbn564]

It does nothing at all for me Not even for sleep

[@eschwarz1003]

Yes, wondered about this since so many seemingly unrelated ailments end up being about inflammation/histamines.

[@ShenJones]

I use a lot of different antihistamines (h2, h1 blockers and mast cell stabilizers) every single day. I have mast cell activation syndrome and several true allergies so I have to take them, or else I have anaphylaxis to random things constantly (still have anaphylaxis on them sometimes but they have saved my life multiple times along with glorious epinephrine). I discovered during the beginning of the pandemic that they were using the meds I was using daily to control cytokinesis in covid patient’s bodies, that was really interesting to me.

[@dvklaveren]

I use antihistamines for sleep; My feet get really itchy and I get really irritated when I'm trying to sleep once every year for a week or two. Usually around the shift from autumn to winter. It can also be provoked by lack of sleep and blood flow to the point where the depressions of my socks off the day will cause me to itch for many hours after taking them off. Antihistamines work like a charm.

[@UlexiteTVStoneLexite]

Yeah I have allergies and I will get itchy in various places and taking some good old Benadryl usually helps and then I can sleep

[@5353Jumper]

Sounds like a liver issue but weird it happens so infrequently. Have your doctor's ever had any input on it? Or do you live in the USA and cannot afford to get checked out for a minor symptom?

[@UlexiteTVStoneLexite]

@@5353Jumper no they said it happens when they're switching seasons that means it's an allergy thing

[@duckies61493]

They can also cause RLS if used in high doses from the drop in dopamine. I'm currently dealing with this for using them for sleep. They did nothing for my anxiety in small doses as well. I guess I've built a tolerance.

[@dvklaveren]

@@duckies61493 Anti-histamines cause that for you?

[@jelenahegser445]

but diphenhydramine was a very "durty" drug in that sense, that it was not only an antihistamin, but also an anticholinergic of the muscarinic acetylcholine receptore (which causes the halucinations, drymouth, dry eyes, dry skin, increased heart rate, delusions, peranoia...) and a serotonin reuptake inhibitor, what sparked the devolpment of modern SSRI Antidepressents.

[@jamesduncan6729]

Doc, in English, please! 😵

[@DavidTheBrain_]

@@jamesduncan6729 take alot of benadryl and you will be in a living nightmare seeing shadow people, spiders, have conversations with people who arent real

[@_sumina]

Also some people including me get restless legs, arms from antihistamines..it’s THE WORSE

[@pluspiping]

That makes sense. My anxiety gets worse on benadryl (and I had nightmares EVERY time I used them as a sleep aid), and I've had a horrible time on SSRI's every time my doctor tried to give them to me. I'm now using doxylamine (unisom) as a sleep aid and it seems to work better, all around.

[@megelizabeth9492]

Are these type of effects dependent on the person?

[@wendysherbert3257]

I love how you are genuinely happy that you learned something new about anaphylactic stuff..lol Never lose that joy. I tell my students when that happens that it is your brain feeling good!

[@emilyhendrickson5384]

Benadryl actually makes me incredibly anxious and totally unable to sleep. It's really awful. Apparently that happens to a small percentage of people like me. On the bottle it warns "excitability may occur." I really wish I could take it for sleep.

[@cait9266]

Yeap and it took numerous times telling doctors in ers that I can't take it yet they would try anyway and then I'd have to suffer until they either gave me something else or just ignored me. Now I just keep it in my allergy list lol.

[@nickim6571]

That used to happen to me with lots of meds. Sometimes I'd get really hyper from the ones that "may cause drowsiness" and sleepy from the ones that "may cause excitalbility."🙄

[@chelseatappa284]

OMG ME TOO

[@maggielovestoads]

That really sucks. Benadryl conks me out like there’s no tomorrow so I’m always excited when I need it for allergies before bed because I know I’ll get a goodnight sleep😂

[@ShadoeLandman]

It makes me really sleepy but also really restless, so I really want to sleep but can’t sleep.

[@potatocow3305]

I've wondered whether antihistamines work on more than allergies for a while now. This is way more than I expected!

[@robinnilsson9487]

I was using benadryl for anxiety, nausea, and insomnia for years. HOWEVER, you build tolerance over time, AND it is addictive (despite what the internet will tell you). The main reason I stopped was because there's a strong chance using this regularly will cause dementia (search for studies online). Not only this, but I noticed significant short term memory loss. I knew if I had a test, I couldn't take benadryl while studying and needed to wait until the test was over. BE CAUTIOUS USING THIS BECAUSE THE WITHDRAWALS ARE HARD WHEN STOPPING.

[@yammytho]

I've also built a tolerance for it over the years but have had zero issues with addiction or withdrawl symptoms. I have, however, noticed the memory loss, which is amplified by my fibro fatigue, autism brain fog AND allergies on top of it. Lol i cant win. But yeah it's possible it's addictive to some but not all? Idk how that works tbh. Guess it just depends on the individual. I just wish any other antihistamine worked at all for me.

[@jjbud3124]

@@yammytho It's not addictive in the way that cocaine or heroin are addictive. You build a tolerance, take more, and if you stop you can get rebound symptoms of your allergies or sleeplessness or whatever you were taking it for. You don't get "cravings" for Benadryl like you do with hard drugs. At least I've never heard of such a thing - but I don't know everything.🙂

[@robinnilsson9487]

@@yammytho my withdraw symptoms are usually panic attacks and going 2 nights without being able to sleep at all. Also my appetite goes away almost entirely. Im glad you haven't felt any addiction to it!

[@roxcyn]

@@robinnilsson9487 - have you try taking one Benadryl on top of another antihistamine?

[@robinnilsson9487]

@@roxcyn no. Wouldn't doing that be a bad idea?

[@GO-ls8hn]

I like how the video summed up the info at the end . It was a great recap

[@emmemagnolia]

Hydroxyzine has been life changing for me in treating anxiety.

[@jjbud3124]

I recently read a study at the NIH where they are studying histamine receptors as a cause for arthritis. I've been tested a couple of times for allergies and I have no allergic reactions to anything the allergist tested. I have every single allergic symptom you can imagine - from hives, eczema, stuffy nose, migraines, etc., etc. I had genetic testing that showed a high probability for histamine intolerance. I'm not surprised that histamine has a large job in the way the body works, but I've found that too much of it can be very unpleasant. Some people lack enough of the enzyme that controls overproduction of histamine (i.e., me for one).

[@Vretens]

Thanks for the info, I also have a long history of allergic reactions, albeit not as extreme overall as yours, without being allergic to anything specific except timothy, so this seems like something I can investigate further.

[@pij3333]

Do you experience these reactions to alcohol as well? I've always had an allergic reaction to alcohol which seems to trigger exactly at a certain alcohol level. It goes crazy when I hit a booze (maybe like 5 beers, depending on how much time has passed), then goes away after 3-4 minutes. I recently read an article that listed these symptomes as possible histamine intolerance

[@Silverstreamhomecrafts]

I'm in the same boat, my respiratory consultant tested me for a load of allergies and nothing, and yet I have symptoms of allergic rhinitis, nasal steriod sprays haven't worked either. My asthma attacks where fairly uncontrollable until I started an immunosuppressant for a completely different condition. Still don't know why because I tested negative for eosinophilic asthma

[@kelsherselves9531]

I'm the same. I have psoriatic arthritis and antihistamines make a huge difference.

[@jjbud3124]

@@Vretens Good luck. Unfortunately there isn't much you can do about it. There is an enzyme (DAO) you can take 30 minutes before each time you eat, but darn if I can remember to do that and it's not cheap. There is a large list of foods that make it worse, which is anything fermented or aged, and some foods that have high amounts of histamine naturally. Antihistamines help, but not much. I'm going to try a higher dose. P.S. When I told my physician about histamine intolerance, he hadn't heard of it, so I gave him links to the studies. The next time I saw him, he told me he was contacting a friend who specialized in allergy at UM. I haven't seen him again since then to see if he has anything new about it.

[@DeRien8]

I was taught in organic chemistry that only one of diphenhydramine's enantiomers was responsible for the drowsiness, but that there was no cost-effective synthesis with a bias, so drug companies didn't bother selecting for or separating them for most products. Now I'm wondering how valid that claim was from my lab instructor

[@TaiChiKnees]

It's the same exact molecule whether you buy it as an antiallergy pill in benedryl or antiinsomnia pill in Nytol etc. I suggest buying 25 mg diphenhydramine generic for cheap. It's not only good for allergy and sleep but also nausea and cough. Just be careful about the sleepiness problem. Also be aware that it can sometimes have a paradoxical effect in kids and the elderly, making them more awake. Always read the Drug Facts panel on any product you buy and talk to your healthcare provider with questions.

[@mikeday5776]

I have an Immunoglobulin E over 140 times normal levels. Allergies and anaphylactic shock are part of life. To put it into perspective I’m under the constant care of the local hospice. Thanks for a clear and well thought out video.

[@hecate235]

From my own experience, I think researchers are on the wrong track for depression. As a freshmen in college, I had a growng bout of depression. Then one spring afternoon, I remembered I didn't feel that way when I took anti-histamines. Grabbed my father's bottle from his car. and 1/2 hr later, my depression was gone. So, I believe it's the allergy causing the depression (and that humans can be allergic to a lot more things than doctors think) and the antihistamines block the reaction. But since this is merely "anecdotal," no researcher will ever consider it.

[@OgdenM]

I'm not a doctor but, I have researched some stuff and noticed how I react to things. It's not a X causes Y. It's an X causes Y and Y causes X. Allergies can cause depression and depression (and stress) can cause allergies. Ever heard of stress hives? They flat out look like AND feel like an allergic rash to either a skin contacted thing or to medication that someone is allergic to. I've had both a stress rash and medication rash in my life. Everything is a feedback loop.

[@kellymcphaul2793]

That is very interesting. I agree that humans could be allergic to practically everything that doctors haven’t gotten to yet. I also struggle with depression, I’m sorry for all of us that deal with any mental health struggles.

[@pluspiping]

I'll also reiterate that it is DEPRESSING AS HELL to struggle to breathe, or sniffle all the time, have constant congestion, headaches, nausea, stomach and gut problems, etc. (I definitely feel a lot less depressed on days when I don't have a runny nose, etc.) And that's not even getting into the brain/body chemical feedback loop with depression and allergies! It's a horrible mess all around. I hope antihistamines continue to help you when you need them!

[@olaruud9366]

this is merely "anecdotal," no researcher will ever consider it Wasnt this clip a description of how reserachers are actually considering it ? Several antidepressants are also antihistamines so i would venture a guess that we are already on track with the link of histamines and depression symptoms.

[@Thunderblock7889]

Respect to your mythical races theory and H. Longi. Your theory is both nonsencical and not based on any scientific evudence. For starters most of the creatures you mentioned where based on EUROPEAN MYTHOLOGY, meaning that only european populations made them up. Second of all, all the creatures who mentioned had neutral to hostile behaviours towards humans based on mytholgy. Third, we do not "remember" because it was just certain early cro magnons who encountered other species, not modern homo sapiens. And thats not how memeory works. Fourth, its sapience not sentience. And its not about sapience, its about other species of our genus. Fifth, we are not lonely because our populations are quite diverse. And those species going extinct has not altered anything nor has affected us at all. We are perfectly fine without them. It would mean nothing weather they where still alive or not. So nope, your theory is both false and based on emotions and not actual science.

[@JNCressey]

10:47 "regression to the mean". It's statistically expected that after a re-test the worst will get better and the best will get worse.

[@circuitdotlt]

From psychological standpoint, there is a strong link between anxiety and allergies, stomach acids, muscle tension/pain, etc. So it all may boil down to histamines, maybe there is one single thing that unifies all of them.

[@ghostbeef5139]

RIP Ranitidine. Gone but not forgotten.

[@dixietenbroeck8717]

As an RN, I've recommended a low dose of *Chlorpheniramine Maleate (CPM)* for insomnia since about 1984! *CPM* is what I like to think of as a "pure" antihistamine with a normal "adult dose" of 4mg. I've advised a "kiddy dose" of 2 mg for mild-to-moderate sleeplessness (insomnia). As *CPM* usually comes as an elongated, dry tablet, it's relatively easy to break one into two "kiddy doses." My 1st job as an RN was at the County jail, so I told the officers about *CPM.* They not only were happy that they then had restful sleep, but they didn't awake groggy at all, _AND_ *CPM* is pretty cheap to boot!

[@csn583]

Yeah, so, maybe DON'T! "A large study on people 65 years old or older, linked the development of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia to the use of chlorphenamine and other first-generation antihistamines, due to their anticholinergic properties.[6]" (wiki)

[@pluspiping]

That's wild to hear that chlorpheniramine makes a lot of people drowsy - it's one of the few 1st gens that doesn't make me drowsy! Would you be able to share your opinions on chlorpheniramine vs doxylamine for sleep? Not gonna hold you responsible for binding medical advice, just like... have you observed anything?

[@Stellina]

For the past few weeks, I've been getting a super runny nose when ever I go for a walk. It's November, so it's cold and rainy, nothing is in bloom and the only thing I'm allergic to (mildly, at that) is pollen of a few trees and weeds. I diagnosed myself as having non-allergic rhinitis, because Zyrtec and Claritin did not do anything to fix the situation. I had a GERD flare up, too, so I started taking famotidine for a few days and guess what? No heartburn, but also no runny nose anymore when walking outside... I think SciShow heard me scratching my head and decided to answer my question LOL. Thanks, SciShow and Hank!

[@BRUXXUS]

I was taking Zyrtec for a long time for my ulcerative colitis, which it did help with. But, if you take it for a long time it does have some unpleasant withdrawal symptoms I never had with Claratin or Allegra.

[@lenabreijer1311]

Nothing in bloom except mould! That is one of mine.

[@maggieo]

When I was covered in hives, my physician suggest doubling the dose of omeperzole (taken for GERD), and by goodness, the hives skedaddled.

[@steveipsen6293]

I had a similar experience when I first got omeprazole for GERD. My sinuses cleared up. Amazing. Also, unfortunately, short lived.

[@tim40gabby25]

Serendipity applies. We need a bulletin board for odd stuff observations - like those who sneeze when sunlight hits them, or when they have erotic thoughts. Put it all in the blender.. out pops H5, or whatever :)

[@Nawmps]

I can't have many antihistamines because I experience a paradoxical excitatory response when I take them, usually resulting in strong feelings of anxiety and delirium even at low doses :(

[@dixietenbroeck8717]

That's how I react to muscle relaxants -- "Every Body *IS DIFFERENT!"*

[@graveyardfuzz9066]

Me too!

[@ShokoFlow]

Sounds like a natural high tolerance to them (since large doses of antihistamines are known for delirium). I believe your race can actually be a factor. For example. I remember hearing Asian people are more sensitive to certain medications.

[@evolvingboard]

It's so funny that I learned and Googled about this topic earlier today because I was experiencing dizziness and nausea (felt like motion sickness but I was not in a car?) and here you are with a relevant video.

[@_Al__]

I take antihistamine 2s (famotidine specifically) when I'm struggling with PMDD and it has changed my life, I hope more research is done into hormonal effects on the brain and how it relates to histamines.

[@cavios8889]

I'm SOOOO glad you just did this video. A month ago, an online commenter told me that depression has recently been shown to have some origin in inflammation. I tried looking at the research papers, but I didn't understand enough to know if I should put any stock in what they'd said. I have a physical condition that lends itself to chronic bodily inflammation! No wonder smoking weed makes me feel better with my mood - it's relieving some of the inflammation, maybe, but I should really just get professional drugs from a doctor.

[@DILFDylF]

It probably elevates your mood because it's a psychoactive drug known to boost mood, not bc of potential anti-inflammatory effects

[@rohan6502]

I hadn't been able to sleep properly for a whole month, and just yesterday I took antihistamines, and BAM! sleep at last, this really explains a lot

[@littalwabbit]

Try taking them regularly ans then stopping. You will not sleep anything

[@katyhaynes1765]

I've used unisom, and over the counter anti-histamine, to treat nausea and insomnia during pregnancy. It was the only thing that worked well without really undesirable side effects. I'm a big fan!

[@DandyParrott]

An overlooked condition called histimine intolerance can cause alot of symptoms like headaches, anxiety/depression, chronic pain, racing heart, etc

[@tjthrash0143]

Antihistamines have been a part of my life since i was born. Almost literally. I was allergic to dang near everything. My mother included.

[@amenxiacodm830]

You were allergic to your mother?

[@Cinnmnbn564]

He’s being fictitious! 😒 not to be taken “literal”

[@AllinaNegrea13]

:)))))

[@CF.]

This made me lol

[@novampires223]

I found out as a kid I was allergic to artificial flavoring in food, easy to spot way back then, wasn't so much poison in our food then..

[@user255]

This does *NOT* mean that you can treat any of those conditions (except allergy symptoms) just by taking some random antihistamine. The way they put that was very misleading. It's just that example some antihistamines are also antidepressants, *not* that all antihistamines are antidepressants.

[@user255]

@benji Yes, that I had in my mind. Depression is still somewhat taboo in some cultures and people might try stupid things when encouraged.

[@melaniecrane2755]

Thank you 🙏🏼 this just explained everything I’ve been trying to people!

[@clairewillow6475]

When I was pregnant I went off one of my medications because I was worried about how it might effect my son. I used Benadryl as a replacement and it was surprisingly effective for a while

[@beccastyver]

For me IV Benadryl helped chemo induced nausea/vomiting far better than expensive antiemetics

[@catlyn777]

Did your oncologist say it was ok to take?

[@mynotificationsareoff.400]

Dr gave me hydroxyzine (first generation antihistamine) for anxiety and sleep related ptsd. Its a wonder drug for me. I also have a severe marijuana allergy that i didnt have until I handled a crop one season, then suddenly i went to the hospital after rolling a joint. What a relevant video!

[@BeingBetter]

It also helped my agoraphobia tremendously, and I don't have to take it anymore but am still cured.

[@meadownicholls2780]

I think I might be allergic to weed. Used to smoke everyday. One day I had a massive ‘panic attack’ and after that every-time I smoked my pulse would just increase. It didn’t matter how hard I tried to think positive my body just reacted. Docs said there’s nothing wrong with my heart. Does this sound like an allergy?

[@user-gj8ms7jd8v]

Ergotamine saved my life for like 10yrs before & after they came out with early migraine meds. This vid kind of proves inflammation is base of most diseases/illnesses.

[@mayankgupta460]

Love how scishow gives us a tonn of details in form of short to long videos and makes it all clear too. It saves a lot of research time and also educates us to the things that we go through in daily life. Awesome videos guys!!!

[@PaulRudd1941]

"Whiskey; it's not just for breakfast anymore!"

[@crystalkubby1809]

Thank you for doing a video on anti-histamines! Can there be a follow-up video on mast cells? Mast cells play a crucial role in histamine production, as well as in releasing other inflammatory compounds (like leukotrienes). Overall, they’re a crucial part of the immune system that the general public knows little about. Plus, there’s very interesting on-going research looking into potential links between mast cells/mast cell conditions, and COVID/“long”-COVID symptoms and disease severity! There’s also emerging evidence linking increased mast cell counts in intestinal tissue with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). And there’s still much, much more to be learned in how mast cells function and how they affect us! I’m not an expert in this field, but I have been clinically diagnosed with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), among other chronic health conditions. It’s hard to explain to a lot of people because they don’t know what mast cells are, so I’ve had to at least learn enough to explain what my condition is, how it is currently understood to work, and how can MCAS present itself. Between the general lack of knowledge in the public about them, despite playing a key role in immune system function and overall health, I hope @SciShow would consider making a future video dedicated to mast cells!

[@everentropy]

Mast cells have also been found to be directly tied to the sleep cycle. I'm hoping getting my MCAS more under control will help my insomnia. They have so many functions!

[@princcess0139]

Yes, Let's learn about mast cells!!! We NEED to educate ourselves. So many issues with having naughty mast cells.

[@terminaldeity]

I'm a medication coordinator for a psychiatric rehabilitation facility. One of the most common medications that my clients are prescribed is Hydroxyzine, often prescribed for anxiety, depression, nausea relief, sleep aid, on top of being an allergy med. It's generally well tolerated, and can be taken on an as needed basis. Basically a cure-all.

[@meese9140]

Doctor prescribed a specific antihistamine for anxiety! Found a dose that fights off the anxiety without making him fall asleep. And it keeps scheduled drugs out of it! Crazy stuff.

[@humphrke]

as someone with suspected mcas, I'm not surprised by any of this lmao

[@StarryVoidDust]

Oh yeah I use Benadryl to help with depression and insomnia. It actually helps out a lot! It also helps with my IBS attacks as well. Aaaaand when I want to stop a panic attack in it’s tracks.

[@DJCannon5]

Im prescribed them and they help with anxiety and insomnia at same time, Ive tried many through the years and had the best results so far using them.

[@kims7387]

Common anti-cholinergic drugs like Benadryl are linked to increased dementia risk. I was told this while visiting with a neurologist, who told me not to give it to any family members.

[@VampyreVladimira]

I had a massive allergic reaction to IV and oral antibiotics in 2007, and nearly died. Since then, I've been on Vistiril because without it, my body will break out as it thinks it's allergic to itself sometimes. Just recently, past 5 or so years, my psychiatrist has started asking if Vistiril helps my anxiety (for me, personally, it doesn't, at least not at the dose I'm on), but I always wondered why/how an allergy medication could help with anxiety, and now I know! Thank you SciShow! ♥

[@incognitonegress3453]

Vasculitis. Autoimmune. I believe mines was medication induced cuz i am healthy otherwise

[@jeffersonian000]

I deal with a number of autoimmune disorders including arthritis, irritable bowel syndrome, and bi-polar II. I take acetaminophen, Benadryl, and CBD to treat it, which makes my life livable. The anti-inflammatory nature of acetaminophen also helps treat my early onset dementia, which is directly related to my autoimmune disorders. Better living through chemistry.

[@annas.5894]

Acetaminophen is not an anti inflammatory.

[@jeffersonian000]

@@annas.5894 Yes it is. Read the side of the bottle.

[@daisydo7669]

Bipolar is an autoimmune disorder?? I never knew! Just found out benedryl helps my lupus pain tho!

[@jeffersonian000]

@@daisydo7669 Not all Bi Polar types are caused by an autoimmune disorder, but the one I have which used to be called Manic Depression and is now part of the Bi Polar II spectrum is directly related to my irritable bowel syndrome, which is an autoimmune disorder. Treating my Bi Polar with medication intended for some or most other Bi Polars has adverse effects not related to my disorder. And this is pretty common. By treating my autoimmune system, I have an overall improvement to each of my other health issues.

[@soyburglar1878]

I started taking a couple of Benadryl (aka diphenhydramine) at night to sleep back in 1999. And I’ve taken it every night since. Not only does it help with my insomnia, but it is a great treatment for acute anxiety since I prefer not to take very addictive benzodiazepines that most doctors want to give you. Aaaand it helps to regulate my blood pressure, as well. The best thing about diphenhydramine, though, is the fact that for me, there are zero unwanted side effects, you don’t build a tolerance to it (if you do, it’s in your head), and even extended decades-long use doesn’t harm your body.

[@Daktangle]

My partner experiences skin crawling/formication along with super sensitivity to touch every so often, and they have found that antihistamines help ease it.

[@illiengalene2285]

I have antihistamines against dsps, anxiety and depression, in addition to my allergies against: Sugar Sunshine Hazel Lemons Dust mites... I use them for ALL of the described things.

[@nenmaster5218]

Galene? I have the (arguably ssilly) hobby to recommend science-channel and such to people - AT RANDOM! May I?

[@illiengalene2285]

@@nenmaster5218I don't really understand... so, elaborate

[@csn583]

I didn't even know it was possible to mention Ergot without bringing up LSD! Also, Modafinil (a "wakefulness agent", not technically a stimulant) appears to partly work by increasing neural histamine. For some causing allergic reactions.

[@michelebriere9569]

I once had 2nd degree sunburn. Hurt so much I could put clothes on for a week. When I finally got to work, in a clinic, I asked one of my melanoma doctors about the burn. He said the pain of a burn is caused by a histomin reaction. Take an antohistomin. 2 benadryl later, about 80% of the pain was gone.

[@anyascelticcreations]

A few days ago my dr put me on a new antihistamine. This one is for anxiety and insomnia. It almost immediately made me feels calm. Peaceful. And as a really cool side benefit, it also immediately calmed my essential tremor. Cool!