Can I take Benadryl for sleep while breastfeeding?

Understanding Benadryl Use While Breastfeeding
When it comes to managing allergies or sleep issues, many new mothers may wonder about the safety of taking Benadryl (diphenhydramine) while breastfeeding. This common antihistamine is known for its sedative effects, which can be appealing for those struggling with sleep. However, the implications for both mother and child require careful consideration.
Safety Profile of Benadryl During Breastfeeding
Benadryl is generally used to alleviate symptoms associated with allergies, hay fever, and the common cold. While it is often deemed safe for use during breastfeeding, there are important nuances to consider. Research indicates that Benadryl can pass into breast milk, albeit in small amounts, which raises concerns about its potential effects on infants.
Occasional use of Benadryl while breastfeeding is unlikely to cause significant problems for most mothers or their babies. However, experts suggest that there may be safer and more effective alternatives available, especially for those with chronic allergy symptoms.
Potential Effects on Infants
While small, occasional doses of diphenhydramine are not expected to lead to adverse effects in breastfed infants, larger doses or prolonged use could pose risks. Some studies have noted that infants exposed to diphenhydramine may exhibit increased sleepiness or irritability. Additionally, there is a possibility that such medications could impact milk supply, particularly when combined with other drugs.
Recommendations for Nursing Mothers
For nursing mothers considering Benadryl for sleep, it is crucial to weigh the benefits against potential risks. While the medication may provide temporary relief, the effects on the infant and the mother’s milk production should not be overlooked. Health professionals often recommend discussing any medication use with a healthcare provider to explore safer alternatives that can effectively address allergy symptoms without compromising breastfeeding.
In summary, while occasional use of Benadryl may be acceptable, it is advisable for breastfeeding mothers to consult with their healthcare provider to ensure the best outcomes for both themselves and their babies.

Is it safe to take melatonin while breastfeeding?

Breast milk naturally contains melatonin, but when you take manufactured melatonin, it is not known how much of it passes into breast milk. It’s thought to be a small amount that is unlikely to cause any side effects in your baby. However, if taken for longer periods of time, it might make your baby sleepy.

How do I dry up breast milk asap?

Tips for Drying Up Your Breast Milk

1. Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen.
2. Put cold packs on your breasts.
3. Use cold cabbage leaves (wash fresh cabbage and refrigerate; pull off one leaf at a time and lay them over your breasts; keep the leaves on your skin until they get soft).

Which drug is usually avoided with breastfeeding?

Table. Examples of drugs contraindicated in breastfeeding.

Drug	Comment
Iodine	High doses (>150 micrograms daily) lead to risk of infant hypothyroidism
Lithium	Breastfeeding only feasible with rigorous monitoring
Radiopharmaceuticals	Contact obstetric information service
Retinoids (oral)	Potential for serious adverse effects

What is the most safe antihistamine while breastfeeding?

Zyrtec (cetirizine) is the preferred antihistamine when breastfeeding. Other second-generation antihistamines are also considered safe, but do not have as much research to support their use. These include Allegra (fexofenadine), Claritin (loratidine), and Xyzal (levocetirizine).

Can Benadryl affect babies?

Serious side effects, such as seizures, are more likely to occur in younger children and could pose greater risk to infants or young children when compared to older children or adults. In general, children are more sensitive than adults to the side effects of antihistamines.

Is it OK to take Benadryl to sleep while pregnant?

According to the FDA, Benadryl is a Category B medication, meaning that it is considered generally safe for pregnant people to take the recommended adult dose. National Library of Medicine: MedlinePlus.

What sleep aid is safe while breastfeeding?

However, the ‘z- drugs’ (zolpidem and zopiclone) are preferred for the short-term management of insomnia during breastfeeding, as they have shorter half-lives than the benzodiazepines and appear to pass into breast milk in small amounts. Melatonin can also be used in breastfeeding with caution.

How much Benadryl will dry up breast milk?

“I tell my clients not to take any antihistamines—if they can avoid them—because they tend to dry up the breastfeeding [parent’s] milk. Although everyone’s body is different, just one dose can impact milk supply,” claims Lexi Hess, a certified lactation counselor in Ohio.

How can I stop falling asleep while breastfeeding?

Ask someone to stay with you while you’re breastfeeding.
The person can wake you up if you start to doze off or can put the baby in a separate sleep area for you if you fall asleep. If you don’t have someone to help you stay awake, set a timer to go off every few minutes to keep you awake.

Is Benadryl safe to take while breastfeeding?

Benadryl is an antihistamine drug that is considered to be safe during pregnancy. However, Benadryl can be passed through breastmilk and cause a baby to become drowsy, excitable or irritable. Allergy medications may decrease a mother’s milk supply while breastfeeding.