Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride + Zinc Acetate

Generic Details

Generic Name

Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride Zinc Acetate

Other Names

  • Diphenhydramine-Zinc Acetate

Drug Class

  • Antihistamine
  • Zinc Supplement

Chemical Formula

C17H21NO·HCl·C4H6O4Zn

Molecular Weight

469.08 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

  • Diphenhydramine acts as an H1 receptor antagonist, blocking the action of histamine. Zinc acetate provides zinc supplementation, which plays a role in various enzymatic reactions.

Indications

  • Allergic reactions
  • Common cold
  • Flu symptoms
  • Zinc deficiency

Common Dosage Forms

  • Tablet
  • Capsule
  • Syrup

Typical Dosage

  • 25-50 mg diphenhydramine + 50 mg zinc acetate, taken orally every 4-6 hours as needed

Pediatric Dosage

  • Consult pediatrician for appropriate dosage based on weight and age

Geriatric Dosage

  • Lower doses may be needed due to decreased metabolic function in elderly patients

Side Effects

  • Drowsiness
  • Dry mouth
  • Constipation
  • Nausea
  • Metallic taste from zinc

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity to diphenhydramine
  • Severe liver disease
  • Bladder neck obstruction

Pregnancy Category

  • Category B - No proven risk in humans

Lactation Safety

  • Considered compatible with breastfeeding

Drug Interactions

  • Alcohol may enhance drowsiness
  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) may potentiate side effects

Overdose Symptoms

  • Severe drowsiness
  • Confusion
  • Rapid heart rate
  • Seizures

Antidote for Overdose

  • Treatment is supportive and may include activated charcoal

Storage Conditions

  • Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat

Pharmacokinetics

  • Absorption: Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract
  • Distribution: Crosses the blood-brain barrier and is distributed widely in the body
  • Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver
  • Excretion: Mainly excreted in the urine

Precautions

  • Use with caution in the elderly due to increased risk of side effects
  • Avoid driving or operating machinery while taking diphenhydramine due to drowsiness

Warnings

  • Do not exceed the recommended dose
  • Long-term use of diphenhydramine may lead to tolerance and reduced effectiveness

Others

  • Consult a healthcare professional before using diphenhydramine-zinc acetate in children or if you have any underlying medical conditions.