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Can I use Flonase with breastfeeding?

Can I Use Flonase While Breastfeeding?
Flonase, a nasal spray containing the active ingredient fluticasone, is commonly used to relieve symptoms of allergies and nasal congestion. For breastfeeding mothers, the safety of using Flonase is a pertinent concern, especially given the need to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the infant.
Safety Profile of Flonase During Breastfeeding
According to expert opinions and medical guidelines, the use of fluticasone, particularly in its inhaled or nasal forms, is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. The amounts of fluticasone that might be absorbed into the maternal bloodstream and subsequently excreted into breast milk are believed to be minimal. This suggests that the risk of significant effects on a breastfed infant is low.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) and other health resources indicate that while specific studies on fluticasone nasal spray during breastfeeding are limited, the consensus is that inhaled and nasal corticosteroids are acceptable for use during lactation. This is largely due to the low systemic absorption of these medications, which minimizes the potential for adverse effects on the infant.
Consultation with Healthcare Providers
Despite the general safety profile, it is crucial for breastfeeding mothers to consult with their healthcare providers before starting any new medication, including Flonase. Individual health circumstances, such as the severity of symptoms and any underlying health conditions, should be taken into account. A healthcare provider can help weigh the benefits of symptom relief against any potential risks.
Potential Effects on Milk Supply
Some anecdotal reports from breastfeeding mothers suggest concerns about Flonase potentially affecting milk supply. However, there is no substantial clinical evidence to support this claim. It is always advisable for mothers to monitor their milk supply and discuss any concerns with a lactation consultant or healthcare provider.
Conclusion
In summary, Flonase is generally regarded as safe for use during breastfeeding, with minimal risk to the infant. However, as with any medication, it is essential for mothers to engage in a dialogue with their healthcare providers to ensure that their specific health needs are met while maintaining the safety of their breastfeeding journey.

Is Flonase safe to use while breastfeeding?

It’s usually OK to use your fluticasone nasal spray or drops as normal while you’re breastfeeding. It’s not known how much fluticasone gets into breast milk, but it’s likely to be a tiny amount.

Why is Zyrtec not recommended while breastfeeding?

However, caution is advised for cetirizine use while breastfeeding due to the theoretical risk of CNS depression based on limited human data and risk of decreased milk production.

How do you clear a stuffy nose with breast milk?

Believe it or not, breastmilk can function as a great home remedy when your baby is congested. Use a dropper to insert a couple of drops directly into baby’s nose. Similarly to saline drops, breast milk can help break up mucus, and its antiviral properties may help treat the cold.

What nasal sprays are safe while breastfeeding?

Corticosteroid nasal sprays containing beclomethasone and budesonide are considered safe to use during breastfeeding. Decongestant nasal sprays containing oxymetazoline, xylometazoline or tramazoline may be used if corticosteroid and antihistamine nasal sprays have not relieved the symptoms.

Why is Zyrtec not recommended for breastfeeding?

However, caution is advised for cetirizine use while breastfeeding due to the theoretical risk of CNS depression based on limited human data and risk of decreased milk production.

What is the safest allergy medicine to take while breastfeeding?

Non-sedating antihistamines are the preferred choice for a breastfeeding mother: Loratadine (Clarityn®) (Powell 2007, Hilbert 1997), Cetirizine (Zirtek®, BecoAllergy®, Piriteze®, Benadryl®) reaches low levels in breastmilk and is recommended by the British Society for Allergy and Clinical Immunology (Powell 2007)

When should you not use Flonase?

FLONASE is for the treatment of allergy-related symptoms. If you feel severe pain in your face, have thick nasal discharge, or think you may have a sinus infection, stop using FLONASE and see your doctor. Your doctor may want to consider if other medicines are needed.

Is it safe to use Flonase while pregnant?

Safe Medications During Pregnancy
These OTC meds are safe when taken as directed: Colds and flu: Robitussin, Vicks, saline nasal drops and spray, Flonase, Actifed, Nasocort, Sudafed (not in first trimester), Tylenol and Tylenol cold. Do not use sustained action forms or multiple symptom forms of these drugs.

Will Flonase dry up my milk supply?

Most allergy medication are considered safe for use while breastfeeding and will not impact your milk supply.

What is safe to take for nasal congestion while breastfeeding?

It’s recommended to only use oral decongestants on a limited basis. You should avoid using oral decongestants during your first trimester, while breastfeeding or if you have high blood pressure. Nasal saline sprays are considered a safe alternative for treating nasal congestion while pregnant or breastfeeding.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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