What You Need to Know About Babies and Benadryl in the Wake of an Infant's Death

A 4-month-old baby boy was found dead at an unlicensed day-care center in Connecticut this past March, and the police have now ruled it a homicide after finding high levels of Benadryl in the infant's system. The autopsy concluded that the cause of Adam Gregory Vasaturo Seagull's death was acute diphenhydramine intoxication, a result of antihistamines in the blood, which have a sedating effect.

According to the dosages on Children's Benadryl Liquid, children under 2 should not be given the medication, children aged 2 to 5 should only take if directed by a doctor, and children 6 to 11 years old should follow the dosages on the back on the box.

If you're considering giving your child an antihistamine that is similar to Benadryl to help ease allergies, be sure to follow the instructions on the product's packaging, or consult your child's physician for more information.