Originally Posted by
panic_down_under
The otc antihistamine diphenhydramine (*Benadryl) can also be used for occasional insomnia. It also has some anti anxiety properties, though it is not as effective as hydroxyzine.
* the antihistamine in Benadryl differs in some countries, and/or in some formulations. I understand that in the UK Benadryl usually contains either acrivastine or cetirizine. Both are non sedating antihistamines, but there may be some formulations containing diphenhydramine so ask your chemist/pharmacist.