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Does Allegra affect breast milk?

Understanding Allegra and Its Effects on Breast Milk
Allegra, known generically as fexofenadine, is a popular over-the-counter antihistamine primarily used to alleviate symptoms associated with seasonal allergies. As many breastfeeding mothers seek relief from allergies, a common concern arises: Does Allegra affect breast milk?
Safety Profile of Allegra During Breastfeeding
Research indicates that fexofenadine is generally considered safe for use during breastfeeding. According to available literature, the amount of fexofenadine that passes into breast milk is minimal. This low transfer rate suggests that the medication is unlikely to have significant effects on a breastfeeding infant.
The American Academy of Pediatrics categorizes fexofenadine as a medication that is usually compatible with breastfeeding. This classification is based on studies showing that the drug does not accumulate in breast milk to levels that would pose a risk to infants.
Potential Side Effects and Precautions
While fexofenadine is deemed safe, some mothers may experience side effects that could indirectly affect breastfeeding. For instance, antihistamines can sometimes lead to dryness of mucous membranes, which might impact a mother’s comfort while nursing. Additionally, some sedating antihistamines can cause drowsiness, which may affect a mother’s alertness during feeding sessions.
It’s also important to note that while fexofenadine itself is safe, individual responses can vary. Mothers should monitor their infants for any unusual symptoms, such as increased irritability or changes in feeding patterns, after taking the medication.
Conclusion
In summary, Allegra (fexofenadine) is considered safe for breastfeeding mothers, with minimal transfer to breast milk and a low risk of adverse effects on infants. However, as with any medication, it is advisable for mothers to consult with healthcare providers to ensure that their specific circumstances are taken into account. This personalized approach helps to balance the need for allergy relief with the health and well-being of both mother and child.

Is Allegra M safe in breastfeeding?

Allegra-M Tablet is safe to be used during breastfeeding. It appears in breast milk in a very small amount which is not known to harm your baby. However, it is advised to consult your doctor before taking this medicine.

Can I take Allevia if breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding while taking fexofenadine:
Fexofenadine gets into breastmilk in small amounts. This amount is likely too low to cause problems for the baby. Be sure to talk to your healthcare provider about all your breastfeeding questions.

Will Allegra affect my milk supply?

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

Who should avoid Allegra?

Caution is advised if you have diabetes, phenylketonuria (PKU), or any other condition that requires you to limit/avoid these substances in your diet. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about using this product safely. During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed.

Is it safe to take Allegra while pregnant?

Some oral antihistamines like Allegra (fexofenadine), Benadryl (diphenhydramine), Chlor-Trimeton (chlorpheniramine), Claritin (loratadine) and Zyrtec (cetirizine) appear to be safe after the first trimester. That means they have caused no known harm in studies so far.

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®).

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)

Is it OK to take Allegra when pregnant?

Many allergy drugs may be fine to keep taking during pregnancy, but have the discussion so you can have peace of mind. Oral antihistamines, like cetirizine (Zyrtec), chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton), diphenhydramine (Benadryl), fexofenadine (Allegra), and loratadine (Claritin) seem to be safe.

Do antihistamines dry up breast milk?

There is conflicting data on the effect of antihistamines and breast milk production, and the evidence is very limited. Antihistamines, used at normal therapeutic doses are unlikely to affect breast milk production, especially where lactation is established, i.e. after 6-8 weeks postpartum.

What is the safest antihistamine 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)

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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