Allergies, itching, insomnia, and symptoms of the common cold can be a hassle to deal with. One product that is often used to help mitigate these ailments is Benadryl. However, with so many different products on the market with Benadryl as an ingredient, it can be challenging to determine which ones are animal-free.
What is in Benadryl (Diphenhydramine)?
Benadryl is the brand name for diphenhydramine. Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine medication that is used to treat allergies, insomnia, itching, and symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections such as cough. It works by blocking the effects of antihistamines, which are the byproduct the body produces in response to allergens or other irritants.
Benadryl is available in several over-the-counter formulations including topical creams/sprays/ gels, tablets, dissolving tablets, capsules, and liquids. These products are generally considered safe and effective when taken as directed, but it is always important to consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking any new medications.
Is Benadryl Animal-Free?
Below is a list of Benadryl products and our current knowledge of their ingredients:
Benadryl (diphenhydramine) only products
Benadryl Allergy Dye-Free Soft Gel ✘ Not Vegan Friendly
Benadryl Topical Extra Strength Itch Cooling Spray ✓ Verified Animal Free
Benadryl Topical Extra Strength Gel ✓ Verified Animal Free
Benadryl Allergy Ultratab ✘ Not Vegan Friendly
Children’s Benadryl ® Dye-Free Allergy Liquid Diphenhydramine Antihistamine Allergy Medicine ✘ Not Vegan Friendly
Children’s Benadryl® Chewables Allergy Relief Tablets Antihistamine Allergy Medicine for Kids ✘ Not Vegan Friendly
Children’s Benadryl ® Allergy Plus Congestion Nasal Decongestant & Sinus Medicine for Kids ✘ Not Vegan Friendly
Children’s Benadryl ® Allergy Relief Liquid Medicine with Diphenhydramine HCl ✘ Not Vegan Friendly
Benadryl ® Extra Strength Allergy Relief Antihistamine Tablets with 50 mg of Diphenhydramine HCl ✘ Not Vegan Friendly
Benadryl (diphenhydramine) + Zinc Acetate (skin protectant)
Benadryl Extra Strength Itch Stopping Cream ✓ Verified Animal Free
Benadryl Topical Extra Strength Stick ✓ Verified Animal Free
Is There a Certified Animal-Free Diphenhydramine?
VeganMed has certified ONE animal-free diphenhydramine product:
In conclusion, contending with allergies, itching, insomnia, and common cold symptoms can be a frustrating challenge, but the availability of diphenhydramine-containing products like Benadryl offers potential relief. In this landscape where animal-free alternatives are not always abundant, GenCare's Certified Animal Free diphenhydramine emerges as a safe, effective, and animal-free option. When a product is certified by VeganMed, it means that the manufacturer has met strict standards. This includes ensuring that no animal-derived ingredients are used in the final product. You can find GenCare's certified diphenhydramine and other verified animal-free allergy relief products in our marketplace.
Co-authored by: Cora Altomari
Disclaimer: The product and/or information provided on VeganMed is of a general nature and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not lab test the products to confirm that they are free from animal ingredients, and it is possible that the formulation and ingredients could have changed. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or product. The information provided in this post is accurate and up to date as of the date it was written. However, please note that circumstances and facts may change over time, and new information may become available that could alter the accuracy or relevance of the content. We encourage readers to verify and cross-reference any information provided here with trusted sources or consult relevant professionals for the most current and accurate updates.
Looking for certified and verified animal-free products?
Thank you for your awareness and concern for animal-derived ingredients!
As a reminder, please comment on our FDA Citizen Petition, requesting clear labeling of animal-derived ingredients in medications. Together, we can make a difference.
If you have any further questions about ingredients in your medicines and supplements, feel free to reach out to the VeganMed team!