Can you take diphenhydramine with codeine?

Answer 1

Diphenhydramine (also known under the brand names of Benadryl in the US or Nytol in the UK) is a potentiator for codeine. This means the effects of codeine are increased if taken in combination with diphenhydramine. The chances of an overdose are therefore increased when taking diphenhydramine alongside codeine.

Answer 2

As a recreational user of dyphenhydramine, I have personally mixed opioids (in non-recreational dosages) with it (in recreational doses =<500mg). Based solely on my personal experience, there seem to be no major side effects in the short-term. If you're taking both in non-recreational dosages, you should be fine, but check with your doctor or at least a pharmacist for info specific to your opioid and personal health situation.

Recreationally, do your research on the opioid you'll be using first to see if it has any history of bad reactions specific to DPH, and pass on any opioid or opioid mixture that relies on the kidneys for elimination (like vicodin), or can cause tachycardia (like demerol), or ones that can impair judgement. I'd also favor DPH above the opioid since opiates in general can cause hallucinogenic effects and DPH can cause visuals at dosages as low as 150mg. Also, since both are respiratory depressants, I don't think it would be too good of an idea to take both in recreational dosages for any extended period of time.

Answer 3

Noop. It is an antihistamine. Some street drug dealers will add diphenhydramine to their drug as a cutting agent.

Answer 4

No