What is the deference between a non-drying medicine such as Sudafed and a drying medicine such as Benadryl?

Question

Along with that question i would also like to add, When is the best time to take a drying medicine over a non-drying. Right now iv got I guess what is a cold (I usually just say I'm sick LOL I'm not all into the medical terminology.) Or it could be allergies but w.e. And my head isnt stuffed up but runny so thats why I am wondering what the differ. is between the non-dyring and drying medicine.

Thanks for the help!!!

Answer 1

Ret, is right except I would not use the word dry as that implies an answer to the original question. Antihistamines are the drying agents and Sudafed is a decongestant. Sudafed is related to speed, that is why they make Meth out of it. Some people can take it at bedtime to clear their sinuses, but I can not.

Traditional antihistamines cause a lot of drowsiness and are often used as sleep aids or in PM pain relievers. Do not try to work unless you know they do not effect you this way. Often they mix a antihistamine with the decongestants which can cancel each other out, for some people.

Then there are the new non drowse antihistamines, but many people find them ineffective. I like to recommend the non drowsy antihistamine with or without the decongestant, for day time use, and benadryl at night, with a nasal spray for congestion.

Your friendly pharmacist

Answer 2

many antihistamines like benadryl have what are called anticholinergic effects in addition to blocking histamine. anti-cholinergics decrease bodily secretions, which improve runny nose/drainage but also cause dry mouth in many people and sometimes urinary retention, decreases in sweating, etc (mostly only noticed by susceptible people). sudafed is a decongestant, and decongestants generally dont have anticholinergic effects so they dont "dry you up." many antihistamines (excluding claritan and usually zyrtec) make you drowsy and decongestants can pep you up.

Answer 3

Sudafed dries up mucus, Benadryl blocks histamine and controls the allergies that make the mucus.

Sudafed during the day (it will wire you!) benadryl at night (it causes drowsiness).

I've used both for MANY years now.