Can I use Benadryl while breastfeeding?

Understanding Benadryl Use During Breastfeeding
When it comes to managing allergy symptoms while breastfeeding, many mothers wonder about the safety of using Benadryl, a common antihistamine. The active ingredient in Benadryl is diphenhydramine, which is known for its effectiveness in alleviating symptoms of allergies, hay fever, and the common cold. However, the implications of its use during breastfeeding require careful consideration.
Safety Profile of Benadryl
Research indicates that occasional doses of Benadryl are generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. The medication does pass into breast milk, but the amounts are typically small. For most mothers, using Benadryl sporadically is unlikely to cause adverse effects in their infants. However, it is crucial to note that larger doses or prolonged use may lead to potential side effects in breastfed infants, such as increased drowsiness or irritability.
Potential Effects on Infants
While small, occasional doses may not pose significant risks, mothers should be vigilant about monitoring their babies for any unusual behavior. Some studies have reported that infants exposed to diphenhydramine may exhibit symptoms like increased sleepiness or irritability. This is particularly important for mothers who may be using other medications concurrently, as combinations can amplify side effects.
Alternatives to Consider
Healthcare professionals often recommend exploring safer and more effective alternatives for managing allergy symptoms, especially for chronic conditions. Non-sedating antihistamines or other allergy medications may be preferable, as they are less likely to affect the nursing infant.
Conclusion
In summary, while occasional use of Benadryl during breastfeeding is generally deemed safe, mothers should approach its use with caution. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider to discuss individual circumstances and consider alternative treatments that may pose less risk to the nursing infant. Monitoring the baby for any side effects is also essential to ensure their well-being while managing allergy symptoms effectively.

Why is Benadryl given during labor?

Vistaril or Benadryl it can be given alone or in combination with a narcotic. It will relax you, it may also be used if you are nauseous and vomiting. It can be given at any time and usually does not slow down your labor.

How to get rid of a cold while breastfeeding?

Try the following to help the discomfort of a cold or a sore throat when breastfeeding:

1. Take honey and lemon mixed in hot water, or sip on other warm fluids like natural teas to keep your throat moist.
2. Gargle some salt water.
3. If you have a cough, try a cough medicine that is based on glycerine and honey.

What is the best sleep aid for breastfeeding moms?

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.

Is Benadryl ok to take while pregnant?

Benadryl is considered to be safe during pregnancy. Doctors and nurses recommend this OTC medication to help relieve allergy symptoms, even while you’re pregnant. Recent studies have found Benadryl to be safe.

What cold medicine can I take while breastfeeding?

Most cold medicines are safe while breastfeeding, especially if you take them short term and only when you need them. Some of the medications that are safe include: Expectorants that contain guaifenesin (Mucinex®, Robitussin® and others). Cough suppressants that contain dextromethorphan (DayQuil®, Delsym® and others).

Why is Zyrtec not recommended while breastfeeding?

However, caution is advised for cetirizine use while breastfeeding due to the theoretical risk of CNS depression based on limited human data and risk of decreased milk production.

What is the safest antihistamine while breastfeeding?

Non-sedating antihistamines are the preferred choice for a breastfeeding mother: Loratadine (Clarityn®) (Powell 2007, Hilbert 1997), Cetirizine (Zirtek®, BecoAllergy®, Piriteze®, Benadryl®) reaches low levels in breastmilk and is recommended by the British Society for Allergy and Clinical Immunology (Powell 2007)

What are the safest antihistamines during pregnancy?

Safety of antihistamines during pregnancy
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) have recommended chlorpheniramine and tripelennamine as the antihistamines of choice for pregnant women.

Is it safe to take Benadryl 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.

Can I take Claritin while breastfeeding?

Cold and allergy meds that are safe while breastfeeding include: Cetirizine (Zyrtec) and loratadine (Claritin) are the recommended antihistamines when breastfeeding. Other antihistamines are also considered safe but do not have as much research to support this. These include Allegra and Xyzal.