How much does Benadryl affect milk supply?

Understanding the Impact of Benadryl on Milk Supply
Benadryl, known generically as diphenhydramine, is an antihistamine commonly used to relieve allergy symptoms, but its effects on breastfeeding mothers and their milk supply are a topic of considerable interest and concern. As many new mothers navigate the challenges of breastfeeding, understanding how medications like Benadryl can influence lactation is crucial.
The Effects of Benadryl on Milk Supply
Research indicates that small, occasional doses of Benadryl are unlikely to significantly affect breast milk production. For most breastfeeding mothers, taking Benadryl in moderation does not lead to noticeable decreases in milk supply. However, caution is advised for those who are still establishing their milk supply or who may be taking the medication in larger doses or for extended periods. In such cases, prolonged use or high doses of Benadryl can potentially reduce milk supply.
The mechanism behind this reduction is linked to the medication’s sedative properties, which can lead to decreased stimulation of the breast. Additionally, when combined with other medications that have drying effects, such as pseudoephedrine (found in some cold medications), the risk of reduced milk supply may increase.
Safety Considerations for Breastfeeding Mothers
While occasional use of Benadryl is generally considered safe, mothers should be mindful of their dosage and duration of use. Larger doses or prolonged use can not only affect milk supply but may also have adverse effects on the infant. For instance, some mothers have reported that taking Benadryl multiple times a day over several days did not impact their milk supply, suggesting that individual responses can vary significantly.
Healthcare professionals often recommend that breastfeeding mothers consult with their doctors before starting any new medication, including Benadryl, especially if they are concerned about their milk supply. This is particularly important for mothers who are still in the early stages of breastfeeding, as establishing a robust milk supply is critical during this period.
Conclusion
In summary, while Benadryl can affect milk supply, its impact is generally minimal with occasional use. Mothers should exercise caution with higher doses or prolonged use, as these factors can lead to a decrease in milk production. As always, consulting with a healthcare provider can provide personalized guidance and ensure that both mother and baby remain healthy and well-supported during the breastfeeding journey.

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)

Will Benadryl decrease milk supply?

For example, antihistamines like Benadryl, Zyrtec, Allegra, etc, or decongestants like Sudafed, can decrease your milk supply. So please call us if you are breastfeeding and need clarification on the safety of a medication or to see if a medication you are taking may be affecting your milk supply while breastfeeding.

What is the fastest way to dry up breast milk?

Drink one mug of sage or peppermint tea 3 or 4 times per day, for 2 to 3 days. Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) can help dry up your milk, but ask your doctor before using this medicine, and do not take it if you have kidney or thyroid problems, or if you have glaucoma. Take Benadryl as directed on the package.

Will allergy meds dry up breast milk?

Affect on Milk Supply
Studies show some nasal decongestants, though considered safe to take while breastfeeding, have been shown to decrease milk supply. Therefore, avoid allergy medications that are combined with a decongestant whenever possible.

Why is Zyrtec not recommended for 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 pills are good for increasing breast milk supply?

Domperidone is the most effective medicine used to improve breast milk supply. It was developed to treat nausea, vomiting, indigestion and gastric reflux, but has been found to be effective when used to increase milk supply.

What medication dries up milk supply?

Women sometimes to ask for a tablet to stop their milk supply. This medication works best if it is taken within 12- 24 hours of your baby’s birth. The medication is not routinely prescribed in hospital due to the many side effects and health risks with this medication. The medication is called cabergoline (Dostinex®).

What sedative is used for breastfeeding moms?

Oral Agents
Triazolam and diazepam are used as oral pre-operative sedatives, often taken one hour prior to a procedure with a sip of water. If a patient is breastfeeding, the oral sedative of choice would be triazolam with a half life of 1.5-5.5 hours compared to diazepam’s half life of 43 hours.

How much sleep do breastfeeding mothers lose?

Even with this in mind, it’s a fact that all new parents will lose about 350 hours of sleep in the first year of parenting, regardless of feeding method, so here are a few easy tips to get more hours of rest in those first few months.

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.