July 24, 2026 | Andrew Yockey
Here’s how public health officials are trying to stop this deadly viral trend
A dangerous social media trend that started in 2020 has persisted into 2026, with heartbreaking consequences.
In May and June 2026, four American teens died participating in the “Benadryl Challenge.” This trend encourages adolescents and young adults to consume excessive amounts of diphenhydramine—the active ingredient in Benadryl—to induce hallucinations.
Incoming HK Assistant Professor Andrew Yockey wrote about this dilemma in The Conversation.
Editor’s note:
To reach Andrew Yockey, email ayockey@illinois.edu.
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