Diphenhydramine and Twitching: Experiences?

[SgcPuppy567]

Another question ...

Has anyone heard that diphenhydramine can cause fasciculations/twitching?

I've been using this for years to help me sleep at night (without it it can take 2-3 hours to fall asleep) and recently (within last 4 months) I've developed random fasciculations.

I recently read that long term use of diphenhydramine can cause twitching, and I'm just wondering if anyone on this board has had similar experiences with it?

I stopped taking it a few nights ago and, although the twitching has not stopped completely, it is much better. The problem is, I'm back to not being able to sleep.

 

[melyssa221]

Yes i believe i read that long term use of these types of drugs can lead to benign fasciculations in some people.

 

[totaltwirls]

My neuro actually told me that drugs such as benadryl and albuterol, which I have used for years for asthma, can cause and contribute to this condition.

 

[SgcPuppy567]

Thank you for the replies.

So --- should I stop taking the Benadryl? Will constant twitching eventually turn to ALS?

Does anyone think Benadryl can cause ALS?

Sharon -- does your Neuro think it is safe to continue taking the Benadryl?

 

[melyssa221]

No i dont think benadryl will cause als.. it may only make you fasciculations worse.. take klonopin or valium.. it will help your BFS and will help you get a good nights sleep.

 

[totaltwirls]

No my neuro does not think this causes ALS. Remember....twitching/fasciculations without atrophy/weakness....keep telling yourself that. Believe me, 3 1/2 months into this myself and it is hard, but I'm trying. As I only took Benadryl occasionally, I just decided not to take it at all; however, weaning myself from the Albuterol was the harder part. Had to work with my asthma doctor to see what we could try and put me on. Singulair seemed to do the trick and am now virtually not reliant on Albuterol.

My neuro has prescribed Diazepam (anti-anxiety meds) for me and that works very well in helping me relax and get some sleep, which was my biggest issue. I have also read throughout this forum that a nice glass of wine before bed doesn't hurt either.