3 Connecticut children die from apparent diphenhydramine overdoses

Three children in Connecticut have died in the past two months due to apparent overdoses of diphenhydramine, an antihistamine sold under brand names like Benadryl. The Connecticut Office of the Child Advocate confirmed the deaths in a statement on June 10, 2026, following media inquiries. Officials emphasized the need for safe medication storage and prevention strategies, collaborating with the state Department of Public Health to warn providers about the risks of diphenhydramine misuse. The deaths coincide with growing awareness of the 'Benadryl challenge,' a dangerous social media trend encouraging excessive consumption of the drug. While the state could not confirm if the recent cases were linked to the challenge, officials urged parents and caregivers to monitor adolescents for potential misuse. The agency also stressed the importance of mental health resources, noting that 17 children daily visit emergency departments in Connecticut for self-harm or suicidal ideation. Diphenhydramine, available over-the-counter, can cause side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, and hyperactivity in children, with severe reactions possible in some cases. The Connecticut Office of the Child Advocate provided a list of crisis centers and resources for families in need. Kenvue, the manufacturer of Benadryl, condemned the social media trend, stating it had worked with platforms to remove dangerous content and prioritized product safety. Officials highlighted the broader risk of medication misuse, urging parents to store all prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs securely. The warning follows similar alerts in other states about the dangers of diphenhydramine overdoses, particularly among younger populations. The agency’s statement underscored the need for vigilance in preventing accidental or intentional exposure to harmful substances.