Home » Blog » Breastfeeding » Is it okay to take Benadryl while pregnant?

Is it okay to take Benadryl while pregnant?

Understanding Benadryl Use During Pregnancy
As many expectant mothers navigate the challenges of pregnancy, questions about medication safety often arise. One common query is whether it is safe to take Benadryl, a popular antihistamine, during this critical time. The consensus among healthcare professionals is generally reassuring.
Safety Profile of Benadryl
Benadryl, known generically as diphenhydramine, is classified as a “Class B” drug by the FDA. This classification indicates that while animal studies have not shown any harm to the fetus, comprehensive human studies are limited. However, the prevailing view is that Benadryl is safe for use during pregnancy, particularly for alleviating allergy symptoms, sleep disturbances, and even morning sickness.
Research supports the idea that first-generation antihistamines, like Benadryl, do not pose significant risks to unborn babies. Multiple studies have indicated that these medications can be safely taken throughout all three trimesters of pregnancy. This is particularly important for pregnant individuals who may experience heightened allergy symptoms or other conditions that Benadryl can effectively treat.
When to Use Caution
Despite its general safety, there are specific considerations to keep in mind. For instance, it is advised that pregnant individuals avoid using Benadryl during the last two weeks of pregnancy due to potential risks, such as eye disease in newborns. Additionally, while Benadryl can be beneficial, it is always prudent for expectant mothers to consult with their healthcare provider before starting any new medication. This ensures that the treatment aligns with their unique health circumstances and pregnancy progression.
Conclusion
In summary, taking Benadryl during pregnancy is typically considered safe for managing allergies and other related symptoms. However, as with any medication, it is essential to approach its use with caution and seek professional medical advice to ensure the well-being of both mother and baby. As always, informed decisions are the best decisions when it comes to health during pregnancy.

What is the safest antihistamine during pregnancy?

To conclude first generation antihistamines such as chlorpheniramine, hydroxyzine, and dexchlorpheniramine are the safest among antihistamines to be used in pregnancy.

Can I take Benadryl with my prenatal?

Interactions between your drugs
No interactions were found between Benadryl and Prenatal Multivitamins.

How much Benadryl can I take 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.

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.

What allergy medicine is safe during pregnancy?

Newer antihistamines, such as cetirizine and loratadine, also may be safe. There also is a corticosteroid nasal spray that is safe to use during pregnancy. But one of the most common decongestants, pseudoephedrine, has been linked to a small risk of abdominal wall birth defects.

Does 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 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.

Does Benadryl affect the baby 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. However, always remember that no medicine — prescription or OTC — is ever 100 percent safe during pregnancy.

What allergy meds are safe 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)

Does Benadryl affect milk supply?

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.

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.

Leave a Comment