Introduction
If you’re someone who suffered from skin allergies or constant hives, you might remember how Benadryl cream was a lifesaver. But now, it has been discontinued without warning, leaving many people feeling lost and uncertain about how to get relief.
The discontinuation of Benadryl cream has been a huge blow to those who rely on it for allergies and hives, so let’s dive into why it was discontinued and what alternatives you can use instead.
Investigative Report
According to medical experts and news reports, the reason behind the discontinuation of Benadryl cream is due to the theoretical risk of skin cancer. The FDA issued a statement in 2019 calling for the discontinuation of all over-the-counter (OTC) topical products that contain the antihistamine diphenhydramine, including Benadryl cream.
According to Dr. Adam Friedman, a professor of dermatology at George Washington University School of Medicine, “while it’s difficult to definitely link the use of topical diphenhydramine to the development of skin cancer, it’s prudent to avoid using these products.”
However, some people believe that the discontinuation of Benadryl cream was due to the decline in demand, leading to the product being unprofitable for the manufacturers.
Regardless of the reasons, many affected individuals have voiced their grievances. For instance, Carolina, a frequent user of the cream, says, “now I don’t know what to use, and the alternatives don’t work as quickly as Benadryl cream did.”
Alternatives to Benadryl Cream
There are many over-the-counter alternatives to Benadryl cream that you can try. Some popular ones include:
1. Hydrocortisone cream: This cream is a type of steroid that reduces inflammation, swelling, and itching. It’s available in many drugstores and is great for skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis.
2. Calamine lotion: This lotion is widely used for skin irritation and allergic reactions such as poison ivy or bug bites. It helps to cool the skin and dry out any oozing.
3. Lidocaine: This is a topical anesthetic that’s great for pain relief and post-procedure skin treatments.
Before you switch to any of these alternatives, it’s essential to know the right way to use them. Some of them may have certain side effects, so it’s crucial to follow the application instructions correctly. And if you have any questions or uncertainty about using these alternatives, speak with your medical provider first.
Benadryl Cream Recalls and Side Effects
The main reason Benadryl cream was discontinued was due to the safety concerns caused by the significant amount of diphenhydramine found in the product. Diphenhydramine made the product dangerous to use for a prolonged period or in particular circumstances. When a person overdosed on Benadryl cream, it could cause respiratory depression and even coma.
There have been numerous recalls of the product over the years due to these concerns. In 2009, for instance, the product was recalled for potential contamination by bacteria strains found during manufacturing. And, in 2020, another recall took place because of the same concerns.
To this day, though, no definitive link has been made between the use of Benadryl cream and skin cancer. But, the diphenhydramine in the product was a potential carcinogen, and the FDA called for its discontinuation out of an abundance of caution.
The Impact of Benadryl Cream’s Discontinuation
The discontinuation of Benadryl cream had a profound impact on many people, particularly those who used it frequently for skin allergies. Not having access to the same kind of relief they once had can take a severe toll on people’s mental and physical health.
Moreover, the discontinuation of Benadryl cream has had an impact on the industry as a whole. It’s a wake-up call for other topical products containing diphenhydramine, and there may be a reconsideration of other topical products created by the manufacturers themselves.
Historical Context and Future Possibilities
The history of Benadryl cream goes back several decades and has been a popular antihistamine for a long time. The discontinuation of the product left a gap in the market, and people are looking forward to a potential return of a safer and better Benadryl cream.
In the future, it’s possible that new versions of Benadryl cream will appear without the potential carcinogens that led to its discontinuation. The manufacturers will take into consideration the issues that led to the withdrawal of the product and correct them to ensure that consumers feel safe while using the product.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the discontinuation of Benadryl cream was due to the potential risks it posed to consumers. However, worry not, this article has provided you with adequate alternatives and the necessary knowledge to use them effectively. Regardless, it’s essential to know the background behind Benadryl cream and the factors that led to the discontinuation. Stay informed, and if you have any concerns or medical issues related to allergies, reach out to your healthcare provider.
Disclaimer: This article only provides general information and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns or before trying out any new treatments.