diphenhydramine
Diphenhydramine is used to treat allergy and cold symptoms: sneezing runny nose red, itchy, watery eyes itching of the nose or throat Diphenhydramine is also used to treat insomnia (difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep) in adults, but should not be used to make a child sleepy. Diphenhydramine is in a class of medications called antihistamines. It works by blocking the action of histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms. Diphenhydramine is also available in combination with other medications. This monograph only includes information about the use of diphenhydramine alone. If you are taking the combination product, read the information on the package label or ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Full drug information on MedlinePlus →This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Decisions about medication use during pregnancy or breastfeeding should be made with your healthcare provider.
Can taking diphenhydramine affect fertility or make it harder to get pregnant?
It is not known whether diphenhydramine can make it harder to get pregnant. If you have concerns about fertility while taking this medication, it is best to discuss them with your healthcare provider.
Does taking diphenhydramine increase the risk of miscarriage?
Miscarriage can occur in any pregnancy for many reasons. The fact sheet notes that results from one study did not show an increased chance of miscarriage with the use of antihistamines, including diphenhydramine, in early pregnancy. Any individual concerns should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
Does taking diphenhydramine increase the risk of birth defects?
The fact sheet explains that a few studies have suggested a higher chance of birth defects when diphenhydramine is used during the first trimester, but these studies do not all agree, and no consistent pattern of birth defects has been noted. Several other studies have reported no increased chance of birth defects with early-pregnancy use. Your healthcare provider can help you weigh this information for your situation.
Can taking diphenhydramine during pregnancy cause other pregnancy-related complications?
Occasional use at recommended doses is not expected to increase the chance of problems such as preterm delivery or low birth weight, according to the fact sheet. There are reports of uterine contractions and, very rarely, fetal death with third-trimester use, though these reports usually involved higher-than-recommended doses or longer-than-recommended use. The fact sheet also notes a possible concern when diphenhydramine is combined with the benzodiazepine temazepam, so anyone taking that combination should speak with their healthcare provider.
Can taking diphenhydramine during pregnancy affect the child's brain development, learning, or behavior?
The fact sheet states that it is not known whether diphenhydramine can increase the chance of behavior or learning issues for the child. There are reports of temporary withdrawal-type symptoms (such as tremors and diarrhea) in newborns exposed to diphenhydramine daily throughout pregnancy, so letting your healthcare providers know about your use can help them care for your baby if any symptoms arise.
Is it safe to breastfeed while taking diphenhydramine?
Diphenhydramine passes into breastmilk in small amounts and can cause sleepiness in both adults and nursing babies; two studies reported irritability and changes in sleep patterns in breastfed babies exposed to antihistamines, including diphenhydramine. The fact sheet indicates short-term or occasional use is not expected to increase the chance of side effects, and recommends contacting the child's healthcare provider if symptoms like irritability or sleep changes occur. If regular antihistamine use is needed, talk with your healthcare provider about which option is best for you.
Source: National Library of Medicine
diphenhydramine