Will Benadryl dry up my milk supply?

Understanding the Impact of Benadryl on Milk Supply
When it comes to managing allergies while breastfeeding, many mothers wonder about the safety and effects of medications like Benadryl, which contains diphenhydramine. A common concern is whether this antihistamine can affect milk supply.
The Connection Between Benadryl and Milk Supply
Research indicates that Benadryl may potentially dry up breast milk supply, although the extent of this effect can vary from person to person. Some anecdotal evidence suggests that mothers have experienced a decrease in milk production after using diphenhydramine. For instance, one mother reported that her doctor recommended using Benadryl at night to help dry up her milk, claiming it was effective in doing so.
Moreover, while small, occasional doses of diphenhydramine are generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers and are unlikely to cause adverse effects in infants, larger doses or prolonged use could lead to a decrease in milk supply. This aligns with findings that certain medications, particularly those containing pseudoephedrine, are known to significantly reduce milk production.
Individual Variability in Response
It’s important to note that the impact of Benadryl on milk supply can differ among individuals. Some healthcare professionals have reported cases where mothers experienced a reduction in milk supply after taking Benadryl, while others have not noticed any significant changes. This variability suggests that while Benadryl has the potential to affect milk supply, it may not do so universally.
Recommendations for Breastfeeding Mothers
For mothers who are concerned about their milk supply, especially those already facing challenges with lactation, it may be wise to approach the use of Benadryl with caution. Consulting with a healthcare provider is crucial to weigh the benefits of allergy relief against the potential risks to milk production. If a mother is in the later stages of lactation or has existing milk supply issues, avoiding medications like Benadryl might be advisable.
In summary, while Benadryl can be effective for allergy relief, its potential to dry up milk supply is a valid concern for breastfeeding mothers. Individual responses can vary, so personalized medical advice is essential for making informed decisions about medication use during lactation.

Does Benadryl help dry up?

This medication works by blocking a certain natural substance (histamine) that your body makes during an allergic reaction. Its drying effects on such symptoms as watery eyes and runny nose are caused by blocking another natural substance made by your body (acetylcholine).

What medicine will dry up breast milk?

Birth control methods with estrogen, cold medications with pseudoephedrine, and the fertility medication clomiphene can all dry up your breast milk supply. Some people have suggested that diphenhydramine (Benadryl) may affect breast milk supply, too.

Does Benadryl affect breast milk supply?

Benadryl doesn’t affect the amount of milk your body makes. However, it may decrease the flow of milk from your breasts. Benadryl can also be passed to your child through your breast milk when you take the pills or use it on your skin.

Do antihistamines dry up your milk supply?

One mother reported a reduction in milk production after taking 10mg of loratadine. There have been no studies looking at other antihistamines, lower doses, or what effect any changes in prolactin might have on milk production.

What pills stop milk production?

Using medication to stop your breast milk
Taking drugs such as Cabergoline or Dostinex® to stop breast milk works best for mothers who have not been breastfeeding for long. Talk to your doctor, midwife or nurse if you would like more information about these drugs.

How do I dry up breast milk asap?

Tips for Drying Up Your Breast Milk

1. Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen.
2. Put cold packs on your breasts.
3. Use cold cabbage leaves (wash fresh cabbage and refrigerate; pull off one leaf at a time and lay them over your breasts; keep the leaves on your skin until they get soft).

What dries up milk supply fast?

To help dry up your milk supply: 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.

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.

Can you take Benadryl to stop breastfeeding?

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.

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)