Benadryl has for decades been used as a go-to drug to treat everything from bee stings to mysterious toddler hives. But a growing number of doctors now say the antihistamine is less effective and less safe than newer alternatives. A position statement from the Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology warns against Benadryl and other first-generation H1 antihistamines as first-line treatments for hay fever and hives in adults and children. The group of doctors say the medication is over-used because of its easy availability. They say it should be restricted to behind-the-counter access in pharmacies. Dr. David Fischer, a clinical allergist in Barrie, Ont., says the medicinal ingredient in Benadryl, diphenhydramine hydrochloride, makes you drowsy and irritable. He says newer generation H1 antihistamines — such as Reactine, Claritin and Aerius — are safer, more effective and work more quickly. Health Canada is reviewing the group's statement.