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How much Benadryl can I take while pregnant?

Understanding Benadryl Use During Pregnancy
When it comes to managing allergies or sleep disturbances during pregnancy, many expectant mothers find themselves questioning the safety of medications like Benadryl, which contains diphenhydramine. The good news is that Benadryl is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy, but there are important guidelines and considerations to keep in mind.
Safety and Dosage
Most experts agree that taking Benadryl during pregnancy is typically safe, particularly during the first and second trimesters. Studies have not shown a clear association between the use of antihistamines like Benadryl and an increased risk of complications for the unborn baby. In fact, multiple studies indicate that Benadryl does not pose harm to fetuses, making it a viable option for treating allergy symptoms or sleep issues throughout all three trimesters.
The recommended dosage for Benadryl is usually between 25 to 50 milligrams. However, it is crucial to adhere to this dosage and avoid exceeding it, as taking significantly more can lead to serious complications, including heart problems and seizures, even in non-pregnant individuals.
Timing and Precautions
While Benadryl can be used safely during most of pregnancy, there are specific recommendations regarding its use in the later stages. It is advised to avoid using Benadryl during the last two weeks of pregnancy due to potential risks, such as eye disease in newborns.
Before starting any medication, including over-the-counter options like Benadryl, it is essential for pregnant women to consult with their healthcare provider. This ensures that the medication is appropriate for their specific health needs and circumstances.
Conclusion
In summary, Benadryl can be a safe choice for managing allergies and sleep issues during pregnancy when taken within the recommended dosage. However, as with any medication, it is vital to discuss its use with a healthcare professional to ensure the safety of both the mother and the developing baby.

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.

Can I take 2 25mg Benadryl while pregnant?

Yes, Benadryl is considered safe to take during pregnancy. Benadryl has been available for quite some time. This has allowed experts to study it thoroughly. Multiple studies have shown that Benadryl and other first-generation antihistamines don’t cause harm to unborn babies.

Can too much Benadryl hurt a baby?

Because Benadryl is an antihistamine, it can cause serious or even fatal side effects in infants. These side effects include rapid heartbeat and convulsions. If your child has allergies, then you should talk to the pediatrician about the proper medication to use during a reaction.

How much antihistamine can I take in 24 hours while pregnant?

Chlorpheniramine, such as Triaminic Allergy, and diphenhydramine, such as Benadryl, are safe to take during pregnancy. However, both can cause drowsiness, so these are best taken at bedtime. The maximum dosage for chlorpheniramine is 32 mg in 24 hours.

How long will 50 mg of Benadryl make you sleepy?

6. How to cope with side effects of diphenhydramine. What to do about: feeling sleepy, or drowsy, during the daytime – drowsiness usually wears off 8 hours after a dose.

What can I take to help me sleep while pregnant?

Sleep medicines are advised against using during pregnancy, but there are other medicines and home remedies that can help you sleep. These include over-the-counter medicines (antihistamines), herbal remedies (ginseng, honey, nutmeg), melatonin, and prescription medications.

Can taking Benadryl every night be harmful while pregnant?

Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is an antihistamine that’s considered safe during pregnancy, and is used to treat allergies, allergic reactions, sleep problems, and morning sickness. It’s classified as a “Class B” drug during pregnancy by the FDA, meaning animal studies show it doesn’t cause harm to a fetus.

Is it safe to take 4 25mg Benadryl?

Additionally, some people take more than the recommended amount because they want to get high. Benadryl produces mild sedative effects, and in larger amounts, that can feel like intoxication. However, taking more than 25 mg can be extremely dangerous and is more likely to cause harm than produce any euphoria.

Is it safe to take Zyrtec or Benadryl while pregnant?

Many allergy drugs may be fine to keep taking during pregnancy, but have the discussion so you can have peace of mind. Oral antihistamines, like cetirizine (Zyrtec), chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton), diphenhydramine (Benadryl), fexofenadine (Allegra), and loratadine (Claritin) seem to be safe.

What is the safest allergy pill to take while pregnant?

Safe OTC medications:

  • Diphenhydramine (Benadryl®)
  • Loratidine (Claritin®)
  • Cetirizine (Zyrtec®)
  • Nasal steroid (Flonase®)
  • Guaifenesin (plain Mucinex®)
  • Mentholated cream (Vicks Vapor Rub®)
  • Afrin® may be used, but only for a short time (three days or less)
Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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