Exact Answer: 24 Hours
Both of the drugs, i.e., Xyzal and Benadryl are used to treat a person showing symptoms of any kind of allergy. Xyzal and Benadryl are the brand names for the drugs Levocetirizine and Diphenhydramine, respectively. The difference between both medicines is that Xyzal is the second generation of antihistamine, while Benadryl is a first-generation antihistamine. That is why the side effect of sedation is higher in Benadryl as compared with Xyzal. But taking Xyzal also causes some drowsiness. Both of these antihistamines are taken orally, with or without food. But can you take both of these medications? If yes, then how long after taking Xyzal can you take Benadryl?
How Long After Xyzal Can I Take Benadryl?
| Medication | Effects Last for |
| Xyzal | 24 Hours |
| Benadryl | 4 – 6 Hours |
Xyzal (also known as levocetirizine) is prescribed to treat allergy symptoms of sneezing, watery or itching eyes, and nose. Xyzal is sold either as tablets or in liquid form and the dosage of this medication depends upon the individual’s age and medical condition. Most of the time you are told to consume this medication only once a day. A common side effect of taking Xyzal which you will experience is drowsiness.
On the other hand, Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is known for treating symptoms of hay fever (allergic rhinitis), and cold. Benadryl is also sold as tablets or in liquid form. For this medication, you will be told to consume it 30 minutes before bedtime, or in the case where you will be traveling, 30 minutes before your travel. This is because consuming Benadryl puts you under heavy sedation.
When you take Xyzal, its effect lasts for about 24 hours, and in the case of Benadryl, the effects last for almost 4 to 6 hours. But doctors never prescribe both of these medications, as you must never consume both of these medications at the same time. Consuming both of these medications at the same time might expose you to various side effects. Yet, if you wish to consume both of these medications, you should only consume them when one of the medications’ effects wears off. If you are taking Xyzal first and then Benadryl, you must wait for the effects of Xyzal to wear off. As the effects of Xyzal last for 24 hours, you can only consume Benadryl 24 hours after taking Xyzal.
Why Can I Take Benadryl That Long After Xyzal?
In most cases, a 5mg tablet of Xyzal is prescribed, and when the symptoms are minor, a 2.5mg tablet also works. When you consume Xyzal, you will start experiencing its effects within 1 hour. Some side effects which you are likely to face include drowsiness and tiredness. In the case of children, fever and cough might also occur.
When Benadryl is prescribed to you, the dosage is between 25mg – 50mg, depending on the severity of the symptoms. It takes at most 20 – 30minutes for Benadryl to start working. Heavy sedation is one of the main side effects of Benadryl. Other side effects of Benadryl include dizziness, constipation, and impaired vision.
After an allergic reaction happens, your body starts developing a natural substance called histamine. The antihistamines Xyzal and Benadryl work in stopping these substances and giving you relief. But even though it gives you relief from these symptoms, both of them are not made to treat or prevent you from serious allergic reactions like anaphylaxis.
Thus, as both of these medications are prescribed for treating similar symptoms, it is not recommended to take both of them at the same time. As mentioned before, you must wait till one of the medications’ effects wears off, and then only you can take the other. This is because of the side effects these medications show. When you consume both of them together, there is a risk of you experiencing additive antihistamine side-effects, which include dry mouth and eyes, extreme drowsiness, and constipation. Therefore, if you are taking Xyzal first, you must wait for 24 hours, and then consume Benadryl.
Conclusion
Consuming Xyzal and Benadryl at the same time is rarely prescribed as they don’t give you any additional benefit. But when you’re taking both of them, it is quite necessary to take precautions and avoid the additive antihistamine effects. Earlier it was mentioned that you should take Benadryl only when the effects of Xyzal wear off. But when you are taking Benadryl first, there also you must wait for its effects to wear off ( i.e., 4 – 6 hours). However, as the effects of Benadryl take less time to wear off when compared to Xyzal, it is recommended to take Benadryl first.
This article provides valuable information about the differences between Xyzal and Benadryl and I appreciate that. It really helps in understanding how to deal with allergy symptoms.
I agree, it provides a clear distinction between the two medications and when to use them. Very informative!
As a medical professional, I find this article insightful and accurate. Patients often have questions about mixing medications, and this article provides useful guidance on that matter.
I second your opinion. This article could be a useful reference for patients wondering about taking Xyzal and Benadryl together.
I find the article to be educational and informative, especially the explanation of when not to take these medications together.
I couldn’t have said it better. The article is an excellent resource for understanding Xyzal and Benadryl.
Absolutely, the article addresses important considerations when using these medications.
The article effectively communicates the differences in effects and duration of Xyzal and Benadryl. Really informative and well-written.
I couldn’t agree more. The article serves as an important resource for those needing clarification about these medications.
Absolutely, it’s always beneficial to have accurate and detailed information about medications. Well done!
This article provides valuable guidance on the usage of Xyzal and Benadryl. It’s imperative to understand the appropriate timing and precautions for these medications.
I completely agree. The article offers essential information about the safe use of these medications.
The article is a helpful guide to understanding the usage of Xyzal and Benadryl. I appreciate the clarity it offers.
Completely agree. It provides a clear overview of the intended use of these medications.
I find the information provided in this article very helpful for understanding the effects of Xyzal and Benadryl. It’s always good to be informed about medications.
Absolutely agree. The article is insightful and provides practical advice on the proper use of these medications.
The article is very detailed and enlightening, shedding light on the need to be cautious when considering the use of Xyzal and Benadryl together.
This article is thoughtful and comprehensive in explaining the differences between Xyzal and Benadryl. Great job!
The clarity in explaining why one should not take Xyzal and Benadryl together is commendable. Insightful details.
Yes, it effectively communicates the potential risks of taking both medications concurrently.