How much Benadryl can I take while breastfeeding?

Understanding Benadryl Use While Breastfeeding
When it comes to managing allergy symptoms during breastfeeding, many mothers wonder about the safety of medications like Benadryl, which contains diphenhydramine. This antihistamine is commonly used to alleviate allergic reactions, but its effects on breastfeeding and infants are crucial considerations for nursing mothers.
Safety of Benadryl During Breastfeeding
Research indicates that occasional use of Benadryl while breastfeeding is generally considered safe. Small doses of diphenhydramine are unlikely to cause adverse effects in breastfed infants. The medication does transfer into breast milk, but the amount is typically low enough that it does not pose significant risks to the baby.
However, it is essential to note that larger doses or prolonged use may lead to potential side effects in infants, such as sedation or decreased milk supply. This is particularly true if combined with other medications that stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, like pseudoephedrine.
Recommended Dosage
For adults, the standard dosage of Benadryl is 25 mg to 50 mg every 4 to 6 hours, with a maximum of 300 mg in a 24-hour period unless otherwise directed by a healthcare provider. If a lower dose effectively manages symptoms, it is advisable to stick with that to minimize any potential risks to the breastfeeding infant.
Alternatives and Considerations
While Benadryl may be safe for occasional use, healthcare professionals often recommend exploring safer and more effective alternatives, especially for chronic allergy symptoms. Non-sedating antihistamines, such as loratadine (Claritin) or cetirizine (Zyrtec), might be preferable as they are less likely to affect milk supply or cause sedation in infants.
Conclusion
In summary, occasional doses of Benadryl can be taken while breastfeeding, but it is crucial to monitor the infant for any unusual reactions. Consulting with a healthcare provider is always recommended to ensure the best choices for both mother and child, particularly when considering long-term use or higher doses.

Can I safely take 50 mg of Benadryl?

The most common dose contains 25 mg of diphenhydramine in each tablet or capsule. This is the formulation we’ll be discussing here. The recommended adult Benadryl dosage for allergies is 1 to 2 tablets or capsules by mouth every 4 to 6 hours as needed. You shouldn’t take more than 6 doses (300 mg) in a 24-hour period.

Is diphenhydramine safe while breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding while taking diphenhydramine:
Short-term or occasional use of diphenhydramine is not expected to increase the chance of side effects during breastfeeding. If you need to take an antihistamine regularly, ask your healthcare provider about which medication is best for you.

Can I take 50 mg of Benadryl while pregnant?

Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is a safe allergy medication to take during pregnancy. It belongs to a class of medications called antihistamines. Benadryl can cause drowsiness, dizziness, or weakness. These can raise your risk of falling or accidentally hurting yourself during pregnancy.

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).

Why is Benadryl not safe for breastfeeding?

Taking Benadryl occasionally during breastfeeding is safe. However, taking Benadryl regularly or in large doses may cause side effects in a child who is breastfed. It may also reduce your milk supply. Antihistamines that cause less sleepiness are usually preferred over oral Benadryl while breastfeeding.

Will Benadryl dry up breast milk?

Remember, there are also many medications that can reduce your milk supply. For example, antihistamines like Benadryl, Zyrtec, Allegra, etc, or decongestants like Sudafed, can decrease your milk supply.

How long does Benadryl stay in your system baby?

How long does Benadryl stay in your system? For most adults, Benadryl can stay in your system for up to about 60 hours (2.5 days). For children, it doesn’t stick around quite as long. Children retain Benadryl in their bodies for up to about 35 hours (about 1.5 days).

How much Benadryl can a 24 lb baby have?

Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) Dose Table

Child’s weight (pounds)	20-24	25-37
Liquid 12.5 mg/ 5 milliliters (mL)	4	5
Liquid 12.5 mg/ 1 teaspoon (tsp)	¾	1
Chewable 12.5 mg	—	1
Tablets 25 mg	—	½

Is 25mg of Benadryl too much for a child?

Children ages 6 to 11 years old: Give 5 mL to 10 mL (12.5 mg to 25 mg) by mouth every 4 to 6 hours as needed. Don’t take more than 6 doses (150 mg) in a 24-hour period. Children under 2 to 5 years old: Don’t give unless your child’s healthcare provider gives you the OK and provides a safe dosage.

How long after taking antihistamines can I breastfeed?

Antihistamines, used at normal therapeutic doses are unlikely to affect breast milk production, especially where lactation is established, i.e. after 6-8 weeks postpartum.