Social media can be fun but it has also given rise to dangerous viral challenges. There are some that are harmless like the dance trends. But things are getting serious with life-threatening challenges like the one going on TikTok. The Benadryl Challenge is the one trending on TikTok these days. A 13-year-old girl landed in the emergency room following an overdose.

It’s a serious reminder of how online trends can put children’s lives at risk.

What Is the Benadryl Challenge?

The Benadryl Challenge first appeared on TikTok a few years ago. Young people are encouraged to take large amounts of Benadryl to experience hallucinations.

Benadryl is an over-the-counter allergy medicine usually taken to get relief from flu, itching and runny nose.

What many kids don’t realize is that taking too much of this medicine can cause severe health problems.

Side Effects of Benadryl Overdose

1. High heart rate
2. Seizures
3. Dangerous changes in blood pressure
4. Confusion and delirium
5. Even cardiac arrest in extreme cases

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The Teen Who Suffered

A 13-year-old girl from Horry County, South Carolina, tried the challenge and ended up overdosing. Her social media was full of videos of other teens who were performing the same trend. The girl had purchased the medicine from a nearby store where she went to buy batteries.

She had to be rushed to the hospital’s emergency department. While doctors were able to treat her in time. The situation could have been far worse if she wasn’t brought to the hospital on time.

Are we even realising the repercussions of such stunts?

Why Kids Are Drawn to Such Challenges

Parents often wonder: “Why would my child even think of doing something like this?”

Well, social media is a big ditch where children don’t realise what they are doing. Moreover, the curiosity and peer pressure add on. Also, lack of awareness plays a vital role in such incidents.

How Parents Can Protect Their Kids

1. Talk to your children about online challenges, even if you think they already know.
2. Let them know the risks behind following dangerous trends.
3. If possible, monitor their online activity.

What Can Schools and Communities Do?

Parents aren’t the only ones who need to stay alert. Schools and communities also play a big role. They can do awareness programs and workshops that can help children understand the dangers of such viral challenges.

Children today live in a digital world where dangerous content spreads faster than ever. We cannot shield them from everything, but we can guide so they make safer choices.