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Diphenhydramine toxicity in a newborn: a case report
1Family Healthcare Medical Group, Thousand Oaks, CA 91361, USA. alvinm@fbcmg.com
Summary
Maternal diphenhydramine (Benadryl) ingestion before birth can cause significant newborn depression. A complete maternal drug history is crucial for evaluating infant behavior after delivery.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Pharmacology
- Obstetrics
Background:
- Maternal medication use during pregnancy can impact neonatal outcomes.
- Anesthetics and narcotics are known to cause central nervous system depression in infants.
- Infants born to substance-abusing mothers may exhibit altered clinical states.
Observation:
- This case report details a newborn experiencing severe depression at birth.
- The infant's condition was apparently linked to maternal ingestion of diphenhydramine (Benadryl) prior to delivery.
Findings:
- Maternal diphenhydramine intake before delivery can lead to neonatal sedation and depression.
- The specific drug, diphenhydramine, demonstrated a significant sedative effect on the neonate.
Implications:
- Accurate maternal drug history is essential for diagnosing and managing neonatal behavioral changes.
- Clinicians should consider maternal medication use when evaluating depressed newborns.
- This highlights the importance of antenatal counseling regarding medication safety.