Libby police warn families about dangerous Benadryl challenge

LIBBY, Mont. — The Libby Police Department warned the community about the "Benadryl Challenge," saying the social media trend is pushing people, especially teenagers, to take too much Benadryl and risk serious harm.

Police explained the challenge involved taking excessive amounts of diphenhydramine to try to cause hallucinations or get attention online. The department said that could quickly turn life-threatening.

The department listed possible effects that included seizures, hallucinations, heart problems, trouble breathing, loss of consciousness, lasting medical problems and death.

Police said over-the-counter medicine is only safe when people use it exactly as directed. They urge parents and guardians to talk with children about online challenges, watch social media activity and keep medicine locked up at home.

Anyone with symptoms after taking too much medication should call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or call 911 in an emergency.