Benadryl brain study halted after just 3 volunteers

NCT ID NCT05219604

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study aimed to measure how a single IV dose of diphenhydramine (Benadryl) affects thinking, memory, and alertness over time. Researchers planned to compare effects in middle-aged and older adults. However, the study was terminated early after enrolling only 3 participants, so the findings are very limited.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

diphenhydramine (Benadryl)

What this could lead to

If successful, this could help doctors better understand how antihistamines like diphenhydramine affect thinking and alertness, especially in older adults.

What could go wrong

The study was terminated early and only enrolled 3 people, so results are very limited and may not apply to the general population.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Dent Neurologic Institute

    Amherst, New York, 14226, United States