Can you take allergy relief D while breastfeeding?

Understanding Allergy Relief While Breastfeeding
For breastfeeding mothers, managing allergies can be a delicate balance between finding relief and ensuring the safety of their nursing infants. The question of whether one can take allergy relief medications, particularly those containing decongestants like pseudoephedrine, is a common concern.
Safety of Allergy Medications
Research indicates that many antihistamines are generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. Medications such as loratadine (Claritin) and cetirizine (Zyrtec) are often recommended due to their minimal transfer into breast milk and low risk of adverse effects on infants. These medications are classified as second-generation antihistamines, which are less sedating and have a better safety profile compared to first-generation antihistamines.
However, caution is advised with certain medications. First-generation antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), can cause sedation in both mothers and infants and are not the first choice for breastfeeding mothers. Additionally, medications that include decongestants, like pseudoephedrine, should be approached with caution. While some studies suggest that the amounts excreted in breast milk are minimal, they can potentially affect milk supply and may lead to side effects in infants.
Recommendations for Use
For mothers seeking relief from allergies, it is advisable to:
– Choose the Right Medication: Opt for second-generation antihistamines like Claritin or Zyrtec, which are deemed safer for breastfeeding.
– Timing Matters: If taking medication, consider timing it right after breastfeeding. This strategy minimizes the amount of medication that the infant might ingest.
– Monitor for Side Effects: Always observe the infant for any unusual reactions when starting a new medication. If any concerns arise, consulting a healthcare provider is crucial.
Conclusion
In summary, while many allergy relief medications are compatible with breastfeeding, it is essential for mothers to be informed about their choices. Second-generation antihistamines are generally safe, while first-generation antihistamines and decongestants should be used with caution. As always, consulting with a healthcare professional can provide personalized guidance tailored to individual health needs and circumstances.

What medications should be avoided while breastfeeding?

Common medicines that are not recommended when you’re breastfeeding include:

• codeine phosphate.
• decongestants that come as tablets, liquids or powders that you swallow.
• some nasal decongestants that come as nose sprays or drops – check with a GP or pharmacist before using them.
• aspirin for pain relief.

What medication dries up milk supply?

Women sometimes to ask for a tablet to stop their milk supply. This medication works best if it is taken within 12- 24 hours of your baby’s birth. The medication is not routinely prescribed in hospital due to the many side effects and health risks with this medication. The medication is called cabergoline (Dostinex®).

Will Claritin D dry up breast milk?

While regular Claritin is completely fine, taking Claritin-D while breastfeeding may reduce milk supply. Claritin-D contains both loratadine, an antihistamine, and pseudoephedrine sulfate, a nasal decongestant,2 which may reduce milk supply, says Silverman.

What is not recommended for breastfeeding?

Medical Contraindications for Breastfeeding
There are a few medical contraindications to breastfeeding, and these include: An infant who has the metabolic disorder of classic galactosemia (galactose 1-phosphate uridyltransferase deficiency). A mother living with human T-cell lymphotrophic virus type I or type II.

Which drug decreases milk supply?

Certain medications can suppress lactation (reduce milk production) in breastfeeding moms. Some of the medications that can decrease milk supply include: Antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and cetirizine (Zyrtec). Decongestants like pseudoephedrine (Sudafed, Claritin-D, Zyrtec-D, and Allegra-D).

Is Zyrtec D safe during pregnancy?

Because there are no adequate and well-controlled trials in pregnant women, ZYRTEC-D (cetirizine, pseudoephedrine) Tablets should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

What allergy pill can I take while breastfeeding?

Zyrtec (cetirizine) is the preferred antihistamine when breastfeeding. Other second-generation antihistamines are also considered safe, but do not have as much research to support their use. These include Allegra (fexofenadine), Claritin (loratidine), and Xyzal (levocetirizine).

Can you take Zyrtec D while breastfeeding?

Cold and allergy meds that are safe while breastfeeding include: Cetirizine (Zyrtec) and loratadine (Claritin) are the recommended antihistamines when breastfeeding. Other antihistamines are also considered safe but do not have as much research to support this. These include Allegra and Xyzal.

Will allergy meds dry up breast milk?

Affect on Milk Supply
Studies show some nasal decongestants, though considered safe to take while breastfeeding, have been shown to decrease milk supply. Therefore, avoid allergy medications that are combined with a decongestant whenever possible.

Can I take allergy D while breastfeeding?

All antihistamines are considered safe to use during breastfeeding, as minimal amounts are excreted in the breast milk and would not cause any adverse effects on a breastfeeding infant.