How much Benadryl do I take for hives?

Benadryl is also indicated to relieve itchy skin (pruritus) caused by histamine release due to an allergic reaction (contact dermatitis), hives (urticaria), or insect bites. Adults and adolescents (12 years and older): 25-50 mg every four to six hours.

Does Benadryl help with skin hives?

Take an over-the-counter antihistamine, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), cetirizine (Reactine), or loratadine (Claritin), to help stop the hives and calm the itching.

How long does it take Benadryl to start working for hives?

Benadryl is absorbed quickly in the body. You’ll probably notice the effects within about 20 to 30 minutes. The medicine should continue to work for about four to six hours.

Which anti allergy is best for hives?

Antihistamines. Antihistamines are the best, first-line treatment for hives, both acute and chronic. 1 They work by suppressing histamine, a chemical produced by the immune system that triggers allergy symptoms. Newer antihistamines are non-drowsy and their effects may last for as long as 24 hours.

Can I take 2 Benadryl at once?

1 to 2 chewable tablets (12.5 mg to 25 mg) every 4 to 6 hours or as directed by a doctor. Do not use unless directed by a doctor. Do not use. Do not take more than 6 doses in 24 hours.

What happens if hives Don’t go away with Benadryl?

Call Your Doctor If: Severe hives not better after 2 doses of Benadryl. Itch not better after 24 hours on Benadryl.

Why are hives worse at night?

Getting hives at night could mean you’re coming into contact with a trigger close to bedtime. Maybe it’s in response to something you ate for dinner, a medication you normally take before bed, or the fabric of your pajamas or your sheets.

What helps hives go away fast?

Apply a cold compress, such as ice cubes wrapped in a washcloth, to the itchy skin several times a day—unless cold triggers your hives. Use anti-itch medication that you can buy without a prescription, such as an antihistamine or calamine lotion.

What is better than Benadryl for hives?

Over the counter antihistamines such as loratadine (Claritin), fexofenadine (Allegra), levocetirizine, (Xyzal) and cetirizine (Zyrtec) are less likely to cause drowsiness than Benadryl. Whatever is used does not permanently make the hives disappear. When the medications are discontinued the hives can return.

What can help with hives?

Some studies suggest that stress or fatigue can trigger hives. Use an anti-itch drug available without a prescription. A nonprescription oral antihistamine, such as loratadine (Alavert, Claritin, others), cetirizine (Zyrtec Allergy, others) or diphenhydramine (Benadryl Allergy, others), may help relieve itching.