Need to know : Can You Take Benadryl When Breastfeeding?

Can You Take Benadryl When Breastfeeding?

As a breastfeeding mother, it’s natural to wonder about the safety of taking medications, especially those like Benadryl that are commonly used to relieve allergy symptoms.

What is Benadryl?

According to the Canadian Family Physician that states that Benadryl, also known as diphenhydramine, is an antihistamine medication used to relieve allergy symptoms, itching, and hives . While it’s generally considered safe for most adults, its safety during breastfeeding is a concern.

Is Benadryl Safe During Breastfeeding?

The safety of Benadryl during breastfeeding depends on several factors, including the dosage, frequency of use, and your baby’s age. According to Dr. Thomas Hale, a leading expert in lactation pharmacology, Benadryl is considered compatible with breastfeeding when used occasionally and in recommended doses. However, it’s not without potential side effects.

Key Points to Consider:

• Transfer to Breast Milk: Diphenhydramine does pass into breast milk, but in small amounts.
• Potential Side Effects: Your baby may experience drowsiness, irritability, or even colic-like symptoms.
• Impact on Milk Supply: Benadryl can reduce milk supply in some women due to its anticholinergic effects.

According to the Center for Women’s Mental Health in 2024, Benadryl is considered a “level 2” medication, which means it’s considered “usually compatible with breastfeeding”.

Potential Side effects of Benadryl During Breastfeeding

• Drowsiness and sedation: According to the American Academy of Family Physicians in 2022 ,Benadryl can cause drowsiness and sedation in breastfeeding mothers, which can impact their ability to care for their baby .
• Baby’s exposure to diphenhydramine: According to the American Family Physician in 2001, Benadryl can pass into breast milk, potentially exposing the baby to diphenhydramine .
•  A 2021 review in the American Academy of Pediatrics and Food and Drug Administration highlighted that infants under 2 months old are more sensitive to the effects of antihistamines like Benadryl. 

Safe Dosage of Benadryl While Breastfeeding

According to the LactMed , The typical dose for adults is 25-50 mg every 4-6 hours, but breastfeeding mums should aim for the lowest effective dose.

Tips for Safe Use:

Monitor Your Baby: Watch for signs of drowsiness or irritability.

Timing: Take Benadryl right after breastfeeding or before your baby’s longest sleep period to minimize exposure.

Short-Term Use: Avoid using Benadryl for more than a few days in a row.

When to Avoid Benadryl Completely:

• If your baby is under 3 months old (due to sensitivity to sedation)
• If your baby has a history of feeding issues
• If you struggle with low milk supply

Alternatives to Benadryl During Breastfeeding

If you’re concerned about taking Benadryl while breastfeeding, there are alternative options available.

Natural Remedies for Allergy Relief

• Quercetin: A study in Molecules 2016 found that Quercetin which is a natural antihistamine found in foods like apples, onions, and garlic .
• Local honey: A study in Frontier in Pharmacology in 2021 suggests that local honey can help alleviate allergy symptoms .
• Saline Nasal Sprays: According to the study in American Journal of Rhinology & Allergy in 2012 states that it Helps to clear nasal congestion without affecting milk supply.
• Ginger-Honey Tea: International Journal of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Pharmacology states that it Soothes sore throats and reduces inflammation naturally.
• Steam Inhalation: According to the study in British Journal of General Practice states that steam inhalation Clears nasal passages effectively without medication.

Prescription Medications for Allergy Relief

Unlike Benadryl, loratadine (Claritin) and cetirizine (Zyrtec) are considered safer during breastfeeding.

According to Hale’s Medications and Mothers’ Milk (2022):

• Loratadine(Claritin) : A non-drowsy antihistamine that’s considered safe for breastfeeding mothers and have minimal transfer into breast milk. .
• Cetirizine(Zyrtec): : Another non-drowsy antihistamine that’s considered safe for breastfeeding mothers .
• Fexofenadine (Allegra): A non-drowsy option for allergy relief.

Conclusion: can you take benadryl when breastfeeding

As a breastfeeding mother, it’s essential to be mindful of the medications you take, including Benadryl. While Benadryl is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers, it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before taking it. By understanding the benefits and risks of Benadryl during breastfeeding, you can make informed decisions about your health and the health of your baby.

FAQs: can you take Benadryl when breastfeeding