The Pharmaceutical Journal
Vol 271 No 7258 p81
19 July 2003

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Letters to the Editor

Branding

Collaboration should extend beyond borders

From Ms H. J. Evans, MRPharmS

Robert Lowe writes about the confusion surrounding the use of the name Benadryl for different ingredients (PJ, 7 June, p792). I can add another to his list. Benadryl capsules and liquid in the United States contains diphenhydramine.

Although I realise that this form is unlikely to appear on the shelves of a British pharmacy, imagine the confusion to tourists from each country. It would be reasonable for a British tourist purchasing Benadryl in the US not to expect drowsiness as a side effect if they have used either form of Benadryl available in the United Kingdom.

In the US many over-the-counter products are available for self selection so it is highly likely that there will be no pharmacist intervention and hence no verbal warning of the likelihood of drowsiness occurring.

I agree, therefore, that one brand name should be associated with one particular drug and that, in this age of international travel, collaboration on this issue should extend beyond borders.

Hilary Evans
Pembroke, Bermuda

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