I am breastfeeding and was wondering if I can take benadryl. If not then what can I take for allergies?

Do not take ANYTHING without consulting with your pediatrician. I thought Benadryl had a warning on the box that nursing mothers couldn't/shouldn't take it. Perhaps it's been removed.

I am breastfeeding and was wondering if I can take benadryl. If not then what can I take for allergies?


Always wise to check with your doctor as the others have said, but many women will use Benadryl while breastfeeding. As with most medicines, it did used to have a warning of not to use while pregnant or nursing, but now says to check with your doctor. It is considered to be a relatively safe med to use. However, because it is an antihistamine, you will want to watch for baby becoming more sleepy than usual. Stay with the lowest dose necessary and for the shortest duration you need for relief. Other alternatives, which may be even better choices are Claritin and Allegra. Stick with the plain forms... probably best to avoid the formulas that have pseudoephedrine in them as the decongestant is thought to effect milk supply for some women.

I am pregnant and suffering from the same problem. I saw an allergy specialist this week. I get tested and was prescribed stronger allergy medicines and a fast acting inhaler. The allergist said these drugs are safe/approved for use in pregnancy. OB doctors may or may not want to go past the basic approved medications. My OB said Claritin is fine but it is not potent enough for me to get any benefit. If you are really suffering I would recommend seeing an allergist and telling them you want a drug safe to use during lactation.