Why does Benadryl make us sleepy?

Chemistry For Your Life

#203

In this episode, Jam recounts a humorous yet enlightening story of accidentally taking a dog-sized dose of Benadryl and the sleepy consequences that followed. Melissa, a chemist, dives deep into the chemistry of antihistamines, explaining the difference between first-generation (drowsy) and second-generation (non-drowsy) antihistamines. The episode covers the role of histamine in the body's allergic reactions and how different antihistamines interact with histamine receptors. Melissa elucidates the chemical structures of these medicines and how their polarity affects their ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, ultimately influencing whether they cause drowsiness.

00:00 A Benadryl Mishap
02:12 Understanding Antihistamines
03:28 The Science Behind Benadryl
04:55 How Antihistamines Work
10:41 Non-Drowsy Antihistamines
18:29 Personal Allergy Experiences
27:52 Allergy Medication Preferences
35:11 Supporting the Show

Thanks to our monthly supporters

• Julie S
• Heather R
• Autoclave
• Chelsea M
• Dorien V
• Scott B
• Jessie R
• Ciara L
• J0HNTR0Y
• Jeannette N
• Cullyn R
• Erica B
• Elizabeth P
• Sarah M
• Rachel R
• Letila
• Katrina B
• Suzanne P
• Venus R
• Lyn S
• Jacob T
• Brian K
• Emerson W
• Kristina G
• Timothy P
• Steven B
• Chris and Claire S
• Chelsea B
• Avishai B
• Hunter R

★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ ★ Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel ★

Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com

Watch our episodes on YouTube

Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife