Teenager remains without brain activity after alleged viral challenge with medication in Oklahoma
The young woman's family said that she had participated in an alleged challenge spread on social networks related to the excessive consumption of an antihistamine.
An Oklahoma teenager remains hospitalized after her family said she suffered a medical emergency associated with an alleged challenge spread on social media.
Leah Presson, 15, was taken to a hospital in Oklahoma City after developing a serious medical condition that her father said was linked to excessive Benadryl consumption.
His father, Richard Presson, told KFOR that he decided to speak publicly about the case to promote greater education and prevention among families and adolescents.
As he explained, his daughter had initially been taken to the emergency area when her symptoms were interpreted as possible respiratory distress.
Subsequently, the situation evolved into a critical situation.
Doctors warn about the risks of excessive consumption of diphenhydramine
According to statements cited by medical specialists, the so-called “Benadryl Challenge” is known within the healthcare field for the risk it represents.
Dr. Ryan Brown, a pediatrician at OU Health, explained to the portal that excessive consumption of diphenhydramine—the active ingredient in the medication—can cause seizures and serious heart rhythm disturbances.
According to him, in some cases these complications can lead to cardiac arrest, reduced blood flow to the brain and severe neurological injuries.
The family later reported that the teenager was declared without brain activity.
Her father publicly stated that he continues to hope for a favorable evolution while remaining with her in the hospital.
He also indicated that they decided to move forward with an organ donation process, a decision that he linked to the supportive personality that, as he described, characterized his daughter.
Specialists call to pay attention to warning signs
During statements cited by local media, doctors insisted on the importance of supervising access to medications and observing behavioral changes that may indicate a risk situation.
Among the recommendations mentioned by specialists include checking the environment when a minor presents unusual symptoms or sudden changes in their physical condition.
The teenager's mother reported that the medical diagnosis of absence of brain activity was communicated on Sunday.
While medical and family support continues, the case has reactivated warnings about the risks associated with the misuse of medications and challenges that circulate on digital platforms.