Will Benadryl dry up breast milk?

Understanding the Impact of Benadryl on Breast Milk Supply
As many new mothers navigate the challenges of breastfeeding, questions often arise about the safety of various medications, including Benadryl, a common antihistamine. The concern is not just about the medication’s effects on the infant but also its potential impact on breast milk production.
Benadryl and Its Ingredients
Benadryl, which contains diphenhydramine, is primarily used to relieve allergy symptoms, but it is also known for its sedative properties. While occasional use may not pose significant risks, there are indications that it could affect breast milk supply. Research suggests that larger doses or prolonged use of diphenhydramine may lead to decreased milk production, particularly if taken before lactation is well established.
Potential for Milk Supply Reduction
The consensus among healthcare professionals is that while Benadryl is not explicitly listed as a medication that dries up breast milk, it may contribute to a reduction in supply. This is particularly true when combined with other medications known to affect lactation, such as pseudoephedrine, which is found in some cold medications. Some anecdotal evidence from mothers suggests that Benadryl can slow or even dry up breast milk, prompting some to reconsider its use during breastfeeding.
Alternatives and Recommendations
For breastfeeding mothers, the best approach is to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any medication. There are safer alternatives to Benadryl that do not carry the same risks of affecting milk supply. Non-sedating antihistamines are often recommended as they are less likely to interfere with breastfeeding.
In summary, while Benadryl may not be the primary culprit in drying up breast milk, its use—especially in larger doses or over extended periods—could potentially impact milk production. Mothers should weigh the benefits and risks and consider consulting a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

What happens if you take Benadryl while 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.

How to tell when breast milk is drying up?

The following are signs your baby isn’t getting enough milk:

1. Poor weight gain. It’s normal for newborns to lose 5% to 7% of their birth weight in the first few days – some lose up to 10%.
2. Insufficient, wet or dirty nappies.
3. Dehydration.

What medications dry up breast milk supply?

What medications do you think have been found to decrease milk supply? Choose 1 or more:

• Epinephrine.
• Labetolol.
• High dose steroids (such as Solumedrol)
• Strong antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
• Testosterone.
• Estrogen.
• Methylergonovine (Methergine)
• Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed)

How much Benadryl will dry up breast milk?

“I tell my clients not to take any antihistamines—if they can avoid them—because they tend to dry up the breastfeeding [parent’s] milk. Although everyone’s body is different, just one dose can impact milk supply,” claims Lexi Hess, a certified lactation counselor in Ohio.

What dries up breast milk fast?

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.

What decreases milk supply?

Other things that can also lead you to have low milk production include:

• Smoking or drinking.
• Some medicines and herbs.
• Hormonal forms of birth control. This is especially true for birth control that has estrogen.
• Nursing or pumping less often.
• Getting sick.
• Feeling stressed.
• Getting pregnant again.

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 long is Benadryl in your system?

The quick answer is it takes our body 24 to 48 hours to process the substance. However, it can show up in urine tests up to four days after ingestion. You should understand the timeline of diphenhydramine in your system so you know when to take the next dosage. That’s because taking too much causes nasty side effects.

Do antihistamines decrease milk supply?

There is conflicting data on the effect of antihistamines and breast milk production, and the evidence is very limited. 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.

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.