Taking Benadryl™ while breastfeeding is considered to be safe in normal doses, although it is best for mothers to consult a doctor prior to use. The manufacturer errs on the side of caution and recommends that women avoid the medication while breastfeeding because it is excreted in breast milk and newborns are particularly sensitive to the effects of antihistamines. Studies have shown, however, that the effects on infants do not occur in most cases or are usually rather mild. Taking Benadryl™ while breastfeeding can have unwanted side effects on the mothers, such as reducing their breast milk supply and causing drowsiness.
Since it is an antihistamine, many women want to take Benadryl™ to control allergies. It blocks the effects of histamine in the body and is used to treat allergy symptoms like runny nose, sneezing, and watery eyes. Some might use it as a sleep aid as well. Women who are breastfeeding should consult a doctor prior to using Benadryl™ or the generic form, diphenhydramine. In some cases, doctors might recommend using other allergy medications such as fexofenadine or loratadine, which are generally milder in terms of side effects.
Typically, taking Benadryl™ while breastfeeding is considered to be safe in low doses or with occasional use because only a small amount passes into breast milk. Studies show that with minimal use, infants experience few or no effects from the Benadryl™ in breast milk. Some side effects can affect breastfed infants when the mothers take high doses or use the medication long term, however. Effects on the infant include irritability, colic, and drowsiness.
Although it is generally safe for women to take Benadryl™ while breastfeeding, there are side effects that might interfere with breastfeeding itself. Benadryl™ can reduce the breast milk supply, especially during early postpartum when the milk is not well established. High doses of the medication can decrease the levels of the hormone prolactin, which is necessary for breast milk production. Women can possibly prevent this from happening by taking a single dose of the drug at night after the final breastfeeding session of the day. Once breastfeeding is well established, this side effect is diminished because the infant's sucking keeps the milk supply steady.
In addition, there are several other side effects on the mothers that can occur when taking Benadryl™ while breastfeeding. Women might feel extremely drowsy or dizzy. It can also cause headache, dry mouth, and difficulty urinating. If the side effects become bothersome or hinder breastfeeding, women should consider switching to a different type of antihistamine.