Is Benedryl for sleep habit forming?

Benadryl is not.

“The sleep inducing dose is 50 milligrams taken before bed.”

“Another precaution relates to whether or not this drug is habit forming. While some people think they can become addicted to Benadryl, in all truthfulness it isn’t an addiction that is created, but more of a emotional dependency. What might happen is that if you take the drug repeatedly for long periods of time, you can become dependent on it, but it doesn’t appear to be a physical addiction. Depending on the length of time you have taken this medicine, it could take a few weeks before you are able to completely stop taking it. If you have taken it for a long time and you want to stop, it’s probably best to reduce the amount you take by slowly weaning yourself so you won’t feel the effects as dramatically.”

Source

Actually, it is a decongestant, and while it can be used as a short term sleep remedy, it is somewhat troublesome due to the drying of mucous membranes. You need to increase fluids while using the product.
Is there perhaps a reason why sleep is not coming easily? Going to the source of the problem can often times be more effective.

I have been taking Benydryl for the last 10 years and have had no addiction from it.

The cheapest is at WalMart and made by Equate. 100 capsules, 25 mg. for $4.00.

I’m pretty sure Benydryl is the exact same active ingredient as sleeping pills.

@Mariah Some of the OTC’s have the same active ingredient.

I would say anything you need to take every night to fall asleep is habit forming. Even if you are not physiologically addicted, you become psychologically addicted. If you are just taking it for a few days no big deal. But, if you are trying to figure out what you can take ongoing because you have trouble falling asleep, I would try other things before medicating yourself. Maybe you have already? I don’t know of course.

Great answer! @JLeslie I tell you, mate, every night same rituals=good night sleep. Exercise every am-makes for a better day, too.

I wouldn’t say it is habit forming, but if taken over the long-term, the sleep-inducing effects will wear off.

@lonelydragon That’s part of addiction in my opinion. And, then the addict needs more and more to get the same affect.