Benadryl is an over-the-counter (OTC) medication that helps relieve allergies, colds, coughs, and sleeplessness when a body fights infections. Although this medication is commonly used, can you take Benadryl while pregnant? Pregnancy can weaken the immune system and make the woman more susceptible to infections (1). Thus, pregnant women may often resort to taking Benadryl. However, before using Benadryl to relieve the symptoms of your illness, it is important to consult a doctor.
What Is Benadryl?
Benadryl, also known as diphenhydramine, is a type of antihistamine that is used to treat a cough, cold, itching, watery eyes, hives, and other allergy symptoms. The drug is available in two major forms, tablets and syrup (2). Other brand names of diphenhydramine include Sominex, Nytol, and Unisom.
Is It Safe To Take Benadryl (Diphenhydramine) While Pregnant?
Yes, it is safe to take Benadryl during pregnancy, but only after consulting your doctor. The US Food and Drug Administration lists Benadryl as a category B drug for pregnancy risks, which means that it has no known harmful side effects (3). However, there is no proof that it is entirely safe during pregnancy, and it should only be taken if prescribed by a doctor.
How Much Benadryl Is Safe To Take During Pregnancy?
The recommended oral dosage of Benadryl is 25mg to 50mg (one to two Benadryl tablets) once every four to six hours as suggested by the doctor for mild symptoms. Your doctor may prescribe an oral dosage of up to 300 mg/day for more severe symptoms (4). This recommended dosage of Benadryl is for all adults, including pregnant women. Benadryl can sometimes lead to drowsiness or dizziness, so avoiding activities such as driving or working with tools or machinery when you are on this medication is better. In any case, take the dosage prescribed by the doctor to stay safe.
What Are Some Reasons Women Take Benadryl During Pregnancy?
Benadryl has been considered safe for pregnant women if prescribed by the doctor; so your doctor may prescribe Benadryl for managing and treating (4):
Allergy symptoms Insomnia Cough Skin rashes (pruritus) Urticaria Symptoms of motion sickness, including dizziness, nausea, and vomiting
What Could Be The Side Effects Of Benadryl During Pregnancy?
Benadryl is not linked to any congenital abnormalities but may cause some potentially adverse side effects. Some of the common side effects of Benadryl include (4):
Headache Constipation Drowsiness Dysuria Dry mouth Blurry vision Hypotension Anorexia Urinary retention Anorexia
When taken in excess, it could put the mother at risk of the following conditions.
What Are The Effects Of Taking Benadryl On The Unborn Baby?
While Benadryl is safe to be taken during all trimesters of pregnancy, if taken in excess or for more than recommended duration, it may also put the unborn baby at risk.
When To Avoid Benadryl During Pregnancy?
Stay off Benadryl if you have any of the following:
Colostomy or ileostomy Breathing issues such as asthma
Gastro and intestinal conditions Liver and kidney problems Urinary problems Glaucoma Blood pressure Thyroid problem
What Are The Alternatives To Benadryl During Pregnancy?
If you are still concerned about taking Benadryl during pregnancy, you can opt for other alternatives. However, do consult a doctor before trying any of these. Your doctor can suggest the right dose of OTC medicines based on your trimester.
You may consider OTC nasal steroid sprays, budesonide, and fluticasone propionate, for managing allergy symptoms during pregnancy (11).
Home remedies, such as gargling with salt water and using saline nasal and eye drops, may also help manage allergy and cold symptoms during pregnancy (12).
You may consider aromatherapy using essential oils to manage insomnia. (13). Some other ways to relax include meditation or gentle self-massage before sleep (14).
Your doctor may also prescribe second-generation antihistamines, including loratadine and cetirizine, as an alternative to Benadryl since they usually cause less drowsiness (15).
You should be very careful while taking medications during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester. No medicine is 100% safe and should be taken only after consulting a doctor. So, if you get yourself thinking, “Can you take Benadryl while pregnant?”- The answer is YES. Benadryl during pregnancy is usually safe, but its usage should be restricted to a minimum and only when prescribed by a physician. It may cause drowsiness, gastrointestinal problems, headaches, or palpitations. So, it is advisable to avoid self-medication and try dealing with minor allergies without using medications.
