I am breastfeeding a 13 month old baby morning and night. Can I take an over-the-counter sleep aid (generic sleepaid) at night before bed?

Question

Alexandre Chagnon · Accepted Answer

Hello Ma'am, Sleepaid contains diphenhydramine otherwise known as Benadryl which is used for allergies, its main side effect is drowsiness and will therefore help sleep. Taking this medication could be safe if taken occasionally. In fact, I recommend that you start with 25 mg (half a 50 mg tablet) and increase to 50 mg (1 full tablet) if insufficient after the evening feed. I suggest you watch for sedation or irritability in your baby. Also, it could potentially decrease milk production. If there are any effects on the baby or a decrease in milk production, then I suggest you stop it. Sleep is sometimes not always easy with an infant. I suggest you have a good sleep routine. Here is a list of tips to help you sleep better: Avoiding technology for a few hours before going to sleep will prevent further disruptions to your sleep cycle Try to get into a routine, sleeping and waking up at the same time every day (even on the weekends) Keep your bedroom dark and quiet, it should only be used for sleeping and intimate activities Go for a walk. Get fresh air during the day, take advantage of sunlight to help realign your circadian rhythm Avoid daytime naps and caffeine Try relaxation techniques (deep breathing, meditation while in bed) If you've been in bed for more than 30 minutes with no success, get up, get some water, walk around for a bit and then get back in bed. Try to see if there are any other causes that may be keeping you awake and your overall stress level. Here's a little guide on insomnia that may help you further: https://www.chumontreal.qc.ca/sites/default/files/2019-01/229-1-Insomnie.pdf Don't hesitate to contact me with any additional questions. Happy day, Kamilia Idir, pharmacy intern. Supervised by Alexandre Chagnon, pharmacist.