First time BF mom made a mistake?

Question

I took a benadryl because I was having a horrible time with my sinuses this evening. Like a moron I didn't research the effects until AFTER I took it?! I am really tired! So my question is can it harm my LO because I read that the dyphenhydramine is secreted in breastmilk. If that is the case what do I do? Pump and dump or wait for it to get out of my system? Advice?

Answer 1

This is what kellymom.com has to say:

Mom's use of Benadryl and Chlor-Trimeton are generally regarded to be compatible with breastfeeding, but always double-check the active ingredients. Monitor your infant for possible drowsiness if you use an antihistamine. The non-sedating antihistamines (below) are generally preferred and are less likely to sedate baby.

The ingredients of Claritin, Claritin-D, Allegra, Allegra-D, Actifed (the decongestant pseudoephedrine plus triprolidine) and Seldane have been approved by the AAP for use by nursing moms. Loratadine (Claritin) has been studied and the amount of loratadine that passes into breastmilk is extremely low. Claritin-D and Allegra-D have pseudoephedrine added (which is AAP approved, but see above about possible effect on milk supply). Dr. Hale has said that he prefers the nonsedating antihistamines (even though they are long-acting) over the sedating allergy medications.  

Answer 2

If that drug is dangerous for the baby, pump and dump is not gonna make it. As long as it is in your system, it's in your milk -no matter how much of it you dump. When you don't feel the effects anymore, it'll probably be fine.

I suggest you wait it out and give formula in the mean time, or if you already have pumped milk from before you took the medicine, use it.

You could still call a nurse or a doctor to know how long this drug stays in your system and if it'll harm your little one.

Good luck xx

Answer 3

You can ask the pharmacist what to do. I am sure they can tell you over the phone.

Answer 4

I don't think it's going to affect your milk. I was given Vicodin while I was breast feeding (a newborn!) and it didn't have any effect on him.

The best thing to do is to call a Pharmacy and ask to speak to a Pharmacist. They can give you all the information on pumping and dumping (if that is in fact needed.)

Answer 5

Antihistamines Benadryl, Chlor-Trimeton May reduce milk supply and cause infant drowsiness or fussiness  

Answer 6

Benadryl is safe to take! It's rated an L2, so you're fine.

http://www.kellymom.com/health/meds/cold...

(It's down near the bottom.)