When a woman is pregnant, she experiences delight, excitement, and a lot of questions about what is safe for both the mother and the growing fetus. Medication issues are frequently at the forefront of this list. Is it safe to use Benadryl while pregnant?
This article will examine the use of Benadryl during pregnancy, any possible hazards, and circumstances under which it may be regarded as safe.
Is It Safe to Take Benadryl While Pregnant?
If you look at the Benadryl official label, you’ll find a warning advising against using the medication while pregnant or nursing a baby. Nevertheless, the Centers (CDC) points out that Benadryl and several other antihistamines have undergone rigorous testing and, when used as directed, represent minor to no risk to unborn children.
Therefore, it is okay if you consume Benadryl after discovering that you are pregnant. Only make sure to follow the dosage instructions carefully and discuss the amount of usage with your doctor.
What is the Reason Behind Taking Benadryl during Pregnancy?
Benadryl is a commonly prescribed medication used to treat nausea, vomiting, and allergies. It also has soothing properties, making it a popular short-term sleep aid.
To treat these frequent problems, your health professional might suggest you take Benadryl while pregnant. The primary component in Benadryl, diphenhydramine, is also present in many other over-the-counter (OTC) sleep aids, such as Maximum Strength Unisom SleepGels, Nytol, Sominex, and Ease the Pain.
Cold and flu medications, including Excedrin PM, Theraflu for Nighttime Severe Cold and Cough, and Robitussin, also include the same drug.
A few other reasons we have mentioned below:-
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
- Skin Rash
- Eyes getting watery
What are the Various Side Effects of Benadryl in Pregnancy?
Benadryl is not risk-free, even if it does not damage an unborn child. Many people who use this drug report feeling sleepy after taking it. Additionally, it may make you weak and queasy.
These side effects may not only interfere with your usual activities but may be especially concerning if you are pregnant. In the first trimester, vertigo is typical. Balancing problems may occur more frequently as your pregnancy progresses. This is due to how your center of gravity has changed as your tummy grows.
Additionally, these typical pregnancy changes make you more susceptible to accidents like falling or tripping. Diphenhydramine can exacerbate this and perhaps cause more balance problems.
Before using Benadryl, discuss these potential side effects with your doctor. Due to these possible side effects, they could advise that you try an alternative allergy medication.
Alternatives to Benadryl That You Can Give a Try
If you feel the need to take Benadryl at any time during your pregnancy, you are ok. But if you can not take Benadryl for whatever reason, there are alternative solutions.
The following over-the-counter antihistamines are regarded as safe to take during pregnancy if you are searching for relief from allergies or cold-like symptoms:
- Chlorpheniramine
- Dexchlorpheniramine
- Hydroxyzine
Nasal steroid sprays are another option for treating allergies while pregnant. But only some of them are equally secure. Budesonide (Rhinocort) and fluticasone propionate (Flonase) are two OTC nasal steroid sprays that are also regarded as safe.
It is crucial to remember that these drugs do take some time to start functioning. They are, therefore, most effective when administered in advance to prevent allergic symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can Benadryl Be Dangerous to My Child?
According to various studies, taking Benadryl during pregnancy would not damage a developing fetus. It is, however, usually thought to be highly safe and unlikely to hurt a newborn.
2. Can You Use Benadryl During the First Trimester?
Yes, taking Benadryl during the first trimester is safe, but make sure to consult your doctor first.
3. What is the Recommended Dosage Size of Benadryl for a Pregnant Woman?
Benadryl oral dose for moderate symptoms is 25 mg to 50 mg, once every four to six hours, as advised by the doctor. Your doctor could also recommend an oral dose of up to 300 mg/day if you’re suffering from a severe condition. Everyone, including those who are pregnant, should take Benadryl at the prescribed dosage.
Wrapping Up
Given the complexity of the situation, using Benadryl while pregnant should only be done under the advice of a healthcare professional. Although it is often categorized as Pregnancy Category B and may be deemed safe for short-term, low-dose usage, it is crucial to examine the advantages and risks of each situation individually.
Pregnant women should never self-prescribe medicine during pregnancy; instead, they should always speak with the doctor for individualized guidance and treatment choices that put the health and safety of the mother and the unborn child first.
