CONNECTICUT — Health officials in Connecticut are investigating three children's deaths over the past two months from apparent overdoses involving diphenhydramine. This substance is the active ingredient in Benadryl.

Medical experts state that diphenhydramine is safe and effective when used exactly as directed. However, taking too much, whether accidentally or intentionally, can be life-threatening. Diphenhydramine is found in some cold and flu medications, nighttime sleep aids, and multi-symptom allergy and cold products.

Giving more than one medication containing diphenhydramine can result in a dangerous double dose. Experts recommend checking the 'Active Ingredients' section on every medication label before administering medicines to children.

Toxicologists report an increase in cases involving older children and teenagers who may be influenced by misinformation or social media trends. Dr. Alex Harding, Director of Medical Toxicology at Baylor College of Medicine, discussed the nature of information sharing online. "Everybody has kind of the same voice when it comes to social media," Harding said. "Somebody can publish something that is completely unfounded in actual scientific literature and get the same amount of following as somebody with credentials."

Early warning signs of a diphenhydramine overdose can include extreme drowsiness, confusion, and dilated pupils. More serious overdoses may cause rapid heart rate, hallucinations, seizures, trouble breathing, and irregular heart rhythms. Toxicologists recommend storing over-the-counter medications high up and locked away, and keeping them in their original packaging to ensure dosing instructions are accessible.

Harding added that it is important to encourage children to evaluate information sources. He said, "Encouraging them to evaluate the source of the information and make sure they're not taking things at face value is very important." Experts also recommend ensuring children know they can consult a trusted adult, healthcare provider, or pharmacist before trying anything seen online. The national Poison Help number is 1-800-222-1222, and the Poison Center is available 24 hours a day for guidance regarding potential exposure to dangerous substances.