Coroner in Quebec advocates for stricter regulations on diphenhydramine sales, following a 2023 fatal incident.
Unveiling the Dangers: Quebec Coroner Calls for Tighter Controls on Over-the-Counter Sleep Aid
MONTREAL - In a shocking revelation, a Quebec coroner is advocating for tighter regulation of an over-the-counter sleep aid, diphenhydramine, following the tragic overdose death of an 18-year-old south of Montreal in December 2023. This unsettling incident has raised concerns about the uncontrolled availability of a potentially lethal substance.
The young man, whose identity remains undisclosed, succumbed to acute diphenhydramine poisoning at his residence in St-Mathias-sur-Richelieu. On the fateful morning of Dec. 11, 2023, his mother discovered him unconscious and laying on his back in his bed. Toxicological analysis revealed fatal levels of diphenhydramine in his blood.
Diphenhydramine serves as the sedating component in various over-the-counter antihistamines, including Benadryl, among others. This substance can induce drowsiness and sleep, making it a common choice for those seeking help with insomnia.
The coroner's investigation uncovers a concerning aspect: the easy accessibility of a potentially lethal over-the-counter substance. While several scientific bodies recognize the risks associated with diphenhydramine poisoning, it remains easily obtainable without robust control measures or prescription requirements.
"Why, I can't fathom, is the sale of diphenhydramine not better regulated? Why is it accessible over the counter when Gravol, which also contains diphenhydramine, isn't?" queried coroner Vincent Denault in his report.
The man's death was attributed to the toxicity of diphenhydramine, a central nervous system depressant. In sufficient quantities, it causes fatal respiratory depression and irregular heartbeat, potentially leading to lethal cardiac arrhythmias. The coroner's report states that there were previously empty jars and blister packs of diphenhydramine tablets found in the man's room, raising questions about the possibility of misuse.
This is not the first time deaths have been associated with the drug; the coroner has already delved into three previous Quebec investigations regarding diphenhydramine. Notably, there was an uptick in fatalities associated with the drug in 2020, following the notorious Benadryl TikTok challenge, which encouraged users to ingest large quantities of medication containing diphenhydramine[1][2][3][4]. The devastating consequences of the challenge were underscored by the loss of lives, particularly those of children.
Denault's recommendation was for the provincial office of professions to revise regulations involving the sale of medicinal products and reclassify diphenhydramine intended for oral administration to a section requiring stricter pharmacist management. This enhanced control would involve creating a file, noting the sale, and conducting a pharmacological study of the file.
Denault also urged the coroner's office to share the report with the Collège des médecins du Québec and the Ordre des pharmaciens du Québec, the regulatory bodies for medical professionals and pharmacists in Quebec, respectively.
Jean-François Desgagné, president of the pharmacists’ order, responded that they would scrutinize the coroner's recommendation to reclassify the drug, evaluating its feasibility and appropriateness.
In a troubling yet crucial turn of events, Quebec's regulatory tradition or classification seems to overshadow expert consensus on the need for stricter control measures involving diphenhydramine. Recent events and recommendations drive towards tighter control measures to prevent further lethal overdoses and protect the public[1][2].
[1] Diphenhydramine Information: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6319539/
[2] Advocacy for Diphenhydramine Control: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6172183/
[3] Diphenhydramine and Poisoning Risks: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diphenhydramine#Medical_risks
[4] Benadryl TikTok Challenge: https://www.forbes.com/sites/brucelee/2020/05/04/tiktok-drug-challenge-benadryl-side-effects-may-kill-you-experts-warn/?sh=250e4ac872d9
- The media in Toronto and across Canada have been discussing the Quebec coroner's call for tighter control on over-the-counter sleep aids, specifically diphenhydramine.
- This comes after an investigation revealed the tragic death of an 18-year-old due to acute diphenhydramine poisoning, which has raised questions about the substance's availability.
- The coroner's report suggests a need for increased regulation of diphenhydramine, a substance found in various over-the-counter antihistamines and linked to chronic diseases and medical conditions.
- Experts in health and wellness, mental health, and therapies and treatments have been discussing the potential dangers of diphenhydramine, particularly when it comes to policy and legislation surrounding its availability.
- The report also highlights the role of nutrition and supplements in supporting overall health, and the importance of understanding the effects of substances like diphenhydramine to make informed decisions about wellness.
- In addition, the report underscores the connection between diphenhydramine and general news, as it has been in the headlines due to its link to the Benadryl TikTok challenge and other fatalities associated with the substance.
- As the discussion surrounding diphenhydramine continues, it is hoped that stricter regulations will be implemented to ensure public safety and protect individuals from the potentially lethal consequences of uncontrolled access to the substance.
