Experts sound alarm about deadly Benadryl TikTok challenge - Eyewitness News 3

(WFSB) - A 13-year-old boy from Ohio died from trying a popular challenge on the video app TikTok.

The challenge involves taking 12 to 14 Benadryl pills to hallucinate.

Connecticut pharmacists said the drug is supposed to be used for allergies, but the trend on TikTok has them issuing a warning.

“Yes, they’re over the counter. Yes, you may think they’re safe, but they’re not,” explained Lynda Rowland, a pharmacist. “Even Tylenol can kill you.”

Rowland said she has been a pharmacist for more than 40 years. She believed kids were doing the challenge to get a sort of high, even though the drugs are more likely to bring them down than up.

“Most of the time it’s the classic drowsiness, sleepiness chest congestion. Focus becomes difficult and usually the next thing is you fall asleep,” she said. “So, I’m assuming this child just stopped breathing.”

Social media experts said they were also concerned about the trend. Channel 3 spoke with Scott Driscoll, an internet safety expert.

He said when an incident like this happens, the app usually takes down similar videos.

Eyewitness News searched the trend to see what came up. A screen popped up that informed users about how drugs can affect the mind, body, and behavior.

When talking to children about TikTok, Driscoll recommended reminding them that the video represented an actual person with real consequences.

“I always tell kids ‘put yourself in that persons shoes.’ You might laugh at it and like it if someone gets hurt, but what if that’s you instead of someone texting you asking if you’re ok? We’re liking something on social media if someone gets hurt,” Driscoll said.

He added that speaking out can prevent trends from becoming dangerous and deadly.

“Maybe reach out to the person or report it to our parents, report to police, and say someone’s in danger,” Driscoll said. “Instead of adding fuel to the fire, let’s get involved the right way.”

Driscoll also wanted to remind parents that according to TikTok’s terms and conditions, 13 is the minimum age for the app.

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