DIPHENHYDRAMINE (BENADRYL®) FOR NOCTURNAL LEG CRAMPS

Abstract

Nocturnal cramps in the legs are a common symptom. The usual history is that of a severe contraction of the muscles of the calves awakening the patient. The cramp sometimes affects the thigh or foot instead of the calf. The symptom ranges from a mild contraction of the muscle to extreme spasm that may give agonizing pain. The cause of nocturnal cramps is not known. The symptom is not primarily circulatory, often occurring in patients without disease of the arteries or veins. A history of low...