A 4-month-old baby boy was found dead [1] 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 [2]. 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 [3], 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 [4], be sure to follow the instructions on the product's packaging, or consult your child's physician for more information.