ST. MARYS, Ga. — Police are urging parents to talk with their children about a dangerous social media trend called the “Benadryl Challenge” after a St. Marys Middle School student was taken to a hospital.
The student was hospitalized, the St. Marys Police Department announced, after reportedly taking too much Benadryl.
The department described the challenge as “extremely dangerous and potentially deadly.” The online challenge encourages children to take large amounts of allergy medicine to see things that aren’t there.
Officials warn taking too much Benadryl can cause serious heart problems, seizures, trouble breathing and death.
Police asked parents to ask their children about videos and challenges they see on TikTok, Snapchat and other social media apps. They also urged parents to remind children that medicine sold in stores is not necessarily safe to take in large amounts.
Parents are encouraged to store medications at home safely and out of reach.
“If you think your child has taken too much medicine, don’t wait for them to feel sick,” the department said. Parents should call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222, or 911 in an emergency.
St. Marys police are encouraging children to speak up if they, or a friend, have taken medication improperly or are being pressured to participate in something dangerous.
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