When it comes to hallucinogens, few compounds can hope to top diphenhydramine. It is one of the most potent deliriants and it is surprisingly available.
It is an H1 antihistamine, which inhibits the reuptake of serotonin. First produced in 1943, it was approved by the FDA for use against various allergies, in 1946. Since 1980, it has been available over-the-counter as a generic anti-allergic solution. Those looking to “milk” the compound for more than just its anti-allergic effects, usually overdose on it.
Benadryl is one of the common brand names of diphenhydramine. It is also available as Sominex and ZzzQuil.
The effects of diphenhydramine are dose dependant, but the way the users’ body responds to dose increases is non-linear. What this means in this case is that lower doses generate a feeling of “high,” while high doses result in well formed hallucinations. In-between the two states, a medley of nausea, discomfort, and generally unwanted effects dominates.
What constitutes a high and a low diphenhydramine dose?
25-100 mg are considered to be the threshold dose. Anything between 100 mg and 200 mg would be considered a light dose.
Between 200 mg and 400 mg, we are looking at a common dose, while 400 mg to 700 mg is a strong one.
Anything above 700 mg is – for all intents and purposes – overdosing.
Given the fact that we are dealing with a synthesized compound here, dosage does not come with the usual caveats. It can be done quite precisely.
What effects does diphenhydramine elicit in users?
Before we delve into the intricacies of the subjective effects of this compound, let us put forth that it is not a walk in the park effects-wise. Most people who tried it reported unpleasant effects of the type they would not want to experience again.
Sedation is one of the top physical effects of diphenhydramine. To achieve it, low doses are recommended. With such usage, diphenhydramine is a potent sleep aid.
Tactile enhancement. Some people have reported major tactile enhancement with diphenhydramine. While these sensations are only present at the peak of the compound’s action, thanks to them users have apparently achieved “turbo orgasms.”
Under such conditions, tactile hallucinations are quite common as well. They are accompanied by olfactory and visual hallucinations, as well as physical fatigue.
Diphenhydramine’s physical effects also include: dizziness, restless leg syndrome, abnormal heart beat, tactile suppression (numbness), dehydration, increased body temperature, itchiness, skin flushing, and erectile dysfunction. Some of these effects are the opposites of previously detailed ones.
This duality carries through to the cognitive effects of the drug. It produces sleepiness at lower doses. At higher doses, diphenhydramine tends to act as a stimulant.
The dream potentiation effects of the compound are impressive. Not only does it generate more vivid dreams, but it apparently influences dream content as well. People using the substance have reported some extremely bizarre dreams.
Cognitive fatigue, depression and confusion are also parts of the diphenhydramine effects-package. They come together with decreased libido, language- and memory suppression, etc.