Benadryl (diphenhydramine) can be safely taken with Robitussin (dextromethorphan) as there is no interaction between the two drugs.
I do want to point out that although "Robitussin" is generally associated with the drug dextromethorphan, Robitussin is itself a brand name.
A variety of over-the-counter cough/cold products use that name, many of which contain different ingredients.
Below, I list the most common Robitussin products, their ingredients, and whether or
not they can be used with Benadryl.
Robitussin Family Of Products With Benadryl
Robitussin Cough & Chest Congestion DM
- Dextromethorphan (cough suppressant)
- Guaifenesin (expectorant)
Robitussin Cough & Chest Congestion DM is safe to take with Benadryl and there is no interaction between the two.
Robitussin Night Time Cough DM
- Dextromethorphan (cough suppressant)
- Doxylamine (sedating antihistamine)
Benadryl should not be taken with Robitussin Night Time Cough DM.
This Robitussin product already contains a sedating, first-generation antihistamine (doxylamine) and therefore Benadryl should not be needed.
Taking both together may cause excess sedation and side effects such as dry mouth, dry eyes, constipation, etc...
Robitussin 12 Hour Cough Relief
- Dextromethorphan (cough suppressant)
Benadryl is safe to take with Robitussin 12 Hour Cough Relief
Robitussin Severe Multi-Symptom Cough Cold & Flu
- Acetaminophen (analgesic)
- Dextromethorphan (cough suppressant)
- Guaifenesin (expectorant)
- Phenylephrine (nasal decongestant)
Benadryl is safe to take with Robitussin Severe Multi-Symptom Cough Cold & Flu.
Robitussin Severe Multi-Symptom Cough Cold & Flu Nighttime
- Acetaminophen (analgesic)
- Diphenhydramine (sedating antihistamine)
- Phenylephrine (nasal decongestant)
Benadryl should not be taken with Robitussin Severe Multi-Symptom Cough Cold & Flu Nighttime. The product already contains Benadryl (diphenhydramine).
Robitussin Severe Cough & Sore Throat
- Acetaminophen (analgesic)
- Dextromethorphan (cough suppressant)
Benadryl is safe to take with Robitussin Severe Cough & Sore Throat
Robitussin Multi-Symptom Cold CF
- Dextromethorphan (cough suppressant)
- Guaifenesin (expectorant)
- Phenylephrine (nasal decongestant)
Benadryl is safe to take Robitussin Multi-Symptom Cold CF.
Summary
As shown above, Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is safe to take with most Robitussin products. Benadryl should only be avoided with Robitussin products that already contain an antihistamine. Robitussin products that contain an antihistamine include:
- Robitussin Severe Multi-Symptom Cough Cold & Flu Nighttime
- Robitussin Night Time Cough DM
Benadryl is safe to take with all other Robitussin products.
This information is generalized and not intended as specific medical advice. Consult your healthcare professional before taking or discontinuing any drug or commencing any course of treatment.
Medical warning:
Very Serious. These medicines may interact and cause very harmful effects and are usually not taken together. Contact your healthcare professional (e.g. doctor or pharmacist) for more information.
How the interaction occurs:
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) may increase the effects of your antihistamine.
What might happen:
Your blood pressure may drop dangerously low.
What you should do about this interaction:
Let your healthcare professionals (e.g. doctor or pharmacist) know right away that you are taking these medicines together. Your doctor may want to change your medicine. Let your doctor know right away if you have any weakness, dizziness, fainting, or blurred vision.Your healthcare professionals may already be aware of this interaction and may be monitoring you for it. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with them first.
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CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.