 [ Symptoms ] what non prescription sleep medicine can i take while pregnant [ Disease ] diphenhydramine is a commonly used otc product it is an antihistamine medication with one side effect profile of drowsiness it is found as the active ingredient by itself or in combination products with pain relief medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen if you are pregnant and have trouble sleeping i would first consult your ob gyn before taking any medications diphenhydramine has a pregnancy risk category listed as b which means studies have not been able to prove an increased risk of fetal abnormalities if you were to select an otc product for aid with sleep stay away from the combination products that contain pain aids specifically ibuprofen or nonsteroidal anti inflammatory nsaids medications more importantly continue to keep your health care professionals in the loop about your otc selections while otc medications are easily available for self treatment it does not always mean it is safe and effective for your individual purpose read the bottles carefully and ask questions with your pharmacist