Why are antihistamines bad for infants?

Why are antihistamines bad for infants?

Antihistamines, which affect the central nervous system, can sedate kids, but they can also cause what’s called a “paradoxical reaction,” meaning they can cause hyperactivity. They can also lead to seizures and cardiac arrhythmia.

What can I give my baby instead of Benadryl?

For older infants, children’s Zyrtec is a better choice. “I usually only recommend Benadryl for infants and actually only recommend it for infants six months or younger,” explains Dr. Marks-Cogan. “For infants six months or older I usually recommend children’s Zyrtec, which is also an antihistamine.

What Can I Give My 9 month old for allergies?

Allergy Help for Infants Oral antihistamines like Claritin (loratadine), Zyrtec (cetirizine), and Allegra (fexofenadine) are available OTC in kid-friendly formulations. These meds help with sneezing, itching, eye irritation, and runny nose.

How do you treat an allergic reaction on a baby’s skin?

Applying a moisturizer: Using a hypoallergenic moisturizer after a baby’s bath can help to prevent dry skin. Moisturizers also provide a barrier to protect the skin from irritants. Using 1-percent hydrocortisone cream: Hydrocortisone cream can treat skin rashes relating to eczema or other allergic reactions.

What can I give my infant for an allergic reaction?

Benadryl or Zyrtec is only recommended for infants who are having a mild reaction such as localized hives or redness. Benadryl or Zyrtec will not stop anaphylaxis from happening. Only epinephrine can stop anaphylaxis.

What can you give a 4 month old for allergies?

Is it safe to give Benadryl to an infant?

Therefore, Benadryl is not safe for infants as a general rule. This is because the active ingredient diphenhydramine is an antihistamine, which can be dangerous to children younger than two. Because Benadryl is an antihistamine, it can cause serious or even fatal side effects in infants.

How often should a 2 year old take Benadryl?

Take every 4 to 6 hours, or as directed by a doctor. Do not take more than 6 doses in 24 hours. Children under 2 years: do not use. Children 2 to 5 years: do not use unless directed by a doctor. Children 6 to 11 years: 5 mL to 10 mL.

Which is better for babies Benadryl or Zyrtec?

For older infants, children’s Zyrtec is a better choice. “I usually only recommend Benadryl for infants and actually only recommend it for infants six months or younger,” explains Dr. Marks-Cogan. “For infants six months or older I usually recommend children’s Zyrtec, which is also an antihistamine.

How old do you have to be to take Benadryl for hay fever?

Last updated on June 4, 2020. Use these dosage guides for infants and children younger than 12 years old. Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is an antihistamine used for the temporary relief of symptoms due to hay fever or other upper respiratory allergies: Use only enclosed dosing cup specifically designed for use with this product.