Does doxylamine succinate dry up breast milk?

Understanding Doxylamine Succinate and Its Effects on Breast Milk
Doxylamine succinate, a first-generation antihistamine commonly used as a sleep aid and for allergy relief, raises important questions regarding its safety for breastfeeding mothers and its potential impact on breast milk production.
Impact on Milk Supply
Research indicates that doxylamine succinate can potentially decrease breast milk supply, particularly when used in larger doses or over extended periods. While small, occasional doses are generally not expected to cause adverse effects in breastfed infants, higher doses may lead to drowsiness in the infant and a reduction in milk production. This is particularly concerning for nursing mothers who rely on a steady milk supply for their infants.
Transfer to Breast Milk
The amount of doxylamine that transfers into breast milk is relatively low, estimated at about 0.6% of the mother’s dose. However, this does not negate the potential risks associated with its use. Antihistamines like doxylamine are known to have sedative effects, which can also affect the nursing infant, leading to drowsiness or irritability.
Recommendations for Nursing Mothers
Given the potential for doxylamine to affect both milk supply and the infant’s well-being, healthcare professionals often advise caution. For mothers who are breastfeeding, it is recommended to avoid exceeding the prescribed doses and to monitor any changes in milk production or infant behavior closely. If a mother notices a significant decrease in milk supply or any concerning symptoms in her baby, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider.
Conclusion
In summary, while doxylamine succinate may be safe in small doses for breastfeeding mothers, there is a notable risk of decreased milk supply and potential side effects for the infant. Mothers should weigh these risks carefully and consider alternatives if they are concerned about their milk production or their baby’s health. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication while breastfeeding.

What pill dries up breast milk?

Key takeaways: Birth control methods with estrogen, cold medications with pseudoephedrine, and the fertility medication clomiphene can all dry up your breast milk supply. Some people have suggested that diphenhydramine (Benadryl) may affect breast milk supply, too.

Can a Z pack decrease milk supply?

Pseudoephedrine: Look out for this ingredient in your cold medicine. It can cause a drop in milk production. Zithromax: Also known as azithromycin, this antibiotic is generally considered safe to take while breastfeeding.

What causes drastic drop in milk supply?

A decrease in milk supply can be caused by a variety of different factors. A very common (and solvable) problem is not pumping or feeding enough. Because milk production works on a supply and demand basis, not pumping on a frequent schedule will signal to your body that it does not need to produce milk.

What antihistamines will dry up breast milk?

First generation antihistamines, like Benadryl (diphenhydramine), have effects beyond relieving allergy symptoms. They may decrease supply if used at high doses and for long periods of time. It may be best to avoid these antihistamines if possible.

Is it safe to take doxycycline while breastfeeding?

Doxycycline and breastfeeding
Doxycycline passes into breast milk in fairly small amounts. However, the calcium in your milk sticks to the doxycycline so the baby cannot absorb very much. When used for a short time, doxycycline is unlikely to cause side effects in your baby.

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)

What dries up breast milk fast?

Drink one mug of sage or peppermint tea 3 or 4 times per day, for 2 to 3 days. 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.

What are the negative effects of doxylamine succinate?

What side effects can this medication cause?

• dry mouth, nose, and throat.
• drowsiness.
• nausea.
• increased chest congestion.
• headache.
• excitement.
• nervousness.

Is doxylamine succinate safe for breastfeeding?

Antihistamines that can make people drowsy, such as doxylamine succinate, could cause drowsiness or irritability in a breastfeeding infant. Be cautious if you are breastfeeding a premature or newborn baby, or a baby who has breathing problems, or if your breastmilk supply has not been well established.

Can I take 25mg of Benadryl while breastfeeding?

Taking Benadryl occasionally during breastfeeding is safe. However, taking Benadryl regularly or in large doses may cause side effects in a child who is breastfed. It may also reduce your milk supply. Antihistamines that cause less sleepiness are usually preferred over oral Benadryl while breastfeeding.