Does antihistamine dry up breast milk?

Understanding the Impact of Antihistamines on Breast Milk Supply
The question of whether antihistamines can dry up breast milk is a significant concern for breastfeeding mothers who may need to manage allergies or other conditions. Antihistamines, particularly the sedating types like Benadryl, have been scrutinized for their potential effects on lactation.
Antihistamines and Milk Supply
Research indicates that certain antihistamines can indeed have a negative impact on breast milk production. Medications such as Benadryl, Zyrtec, and Allegra are known to potentially decrease milk supply. This is particularly relevant for mothers who are already struggling with lactation, as the use of these medications could exacerbate the issue.
The mechanism behind this effect is not entirely understood, but it is believed that antihistamines may interfere with the hormonal signals that promote milk production. This is a crucial consideration for breastfeeding mothers, especially those who rely on consistent milk supply for their infants.
Safety and Recommendations
While some studies suggest that antihistamines are not excreted in breast milk in significant amounts, leading to minimal risk for breastfeeding infants , the potential for reduced milk supply remains a concern. Therefore, healthcare providers often recommend that breastfeeding mothers avoid sedating antihistamines unless absolutely necessary.
For those who need to manage allergy symptoms, alternatives such as steroid nasal sprays may be more suitable, as they act locally and have little to no passage into breast milk.
Conclusion
In summary, while antihistamines can provide relief for allergy symptoms, they carry the risk of reducing breast milk supply, particularly the sedating varieties. Mothers should consult with healthcare professionals to explore safer alternatives and ensure that their breastfeeding journey remains as smooth as possible. Balancing the need for medication with the desire to maintain a healthy milk supply is essential for the well-being of both mother and child.

Does Zyrtec decrease milk supply?

High doses of sedating antihistamines have been reported by mothers to decrease milk production, but there is no scientific proof this occurs.

Will Zyrtec dry up my milk supply?

High doses of sedating antihistamines have been reported by mothers to decrease milk production, but there is no scientific proof this occurs.

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)

How to tell when breast milk is drying up?

The following are signs your baby isn’t getting enough milk:

1. Poor weight gain. It’s normal for newborns to lose 5% to 7% of their birth weight in the first few days – some lose up to 10%.
2. Insufficient, wet or dirty nappies.
3. Dehydration.

Do soft breasts mean low milk supply?

Your breasts feel softer
This happens as your milk supply adjusts to your baby’s needs. The initial breast fullness reduces in the first few weeks. At around 6 weeks, breast fullness is completely gone and your breasts may feel soft. This is completely normal and has no effect on your milk supply.

What medicine dries up breast milk?

Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) can help dry up your milk, but ask your doctor before using this medicine, and do not take it if you have kidney or thyroid problems, or if you have glaucoma. Take Benadryl as directed on the package.

Do antihistamines decrease milk supply?

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. One small study, reported a possible increase in the time until milk secretion postpartum when promethazine (dose unknown) was given during labour.

What does Benadryl do to breast milk?

However, Benadryl can be passed through breastmilk and cause a baby to become drowsy, excitable or irritable. Allergy medications may decrease a mother’s milk supply while breastfeeding. Claritin is an alternative to consider while breastfeeding, as well as nasal sprays and some decongestants.

What is the best natural antihistamine?

Top 8 natural antihistamines for allergies

• Vitamin C.
• Quercetin.
• Ceylon cinnamon.
• Butterbur.
• Probiotics.
• Black pepper extract.
• Berberine.
• Spirulina.

What causes breast milk to dry up?

Possible causes of low supply
Nearly all babies need to feed at least 8 to 12 times in 24 hours. Your baby does not feed effectively at the breast. You have started using formula milk as well as breastfeeding. You have had breast surgery that is affecting your milk supply.