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Does Flonase affect breast milk?

Understanding Flonase and Its Impact on Breast Milk
Flonase, a nasal spray containing the active ingredient fluticasone, is commonly used to relieve allergy symptoms. For breastfeeding mothers, concerns often arise regarding the safety of using such medications and their potential effects on breast milk and nursing infants.
Safety Profile of Flonase During Breastfeeding
According to expert opinions and medical guidelines, Flonase is generally considered safe for use while breastfeeding. The amounts of fluticasone that may enter the maternal bloodstream and subsequently be excreted into breast milk are believed to be minimal. This is particularly true for inhaled and nasal corticosteroids, which are often deemed acceptable for breastfeeding mothers.
The National Health Service (NHS) also provides reassurance, indicating that while there is limited data on the specific effects of fluticasone nasal spray during breastfeeding, the consensus is that it poses a low risk to breastfed infants.
Effects on Milk Supply and Infant Health
Concerns about Flonase affecting milk supply have been raised in various forums, with mothers questioning whether its use could lead to decreased lactation. However, current evidence does not support the notion that Flonase negatively impacts breast milk production. Inhaled corticosteroids, like fluticasone, are not associated with significant systemic absorption that would affect lactation.
Moreover, the potential effects on breastfed infants are considered negligible. The concentrations of fluticasone in breast milk are likely too low to cause any adverse effects in infants. This aligns with findings from the Drugs and Lactation Database, which suggests that the systemic effects of inhaled corticosteroids are minimal and unlikely to pose a risk to breastfeeding.
Conclusion
In summary, Flonase appears to be a safe option for breastfeeding mothers seeking relief from allergy symptoms. The low levels of fluticasone that may be present in breast milk, combined with the lack of evidence suggesting adverse effects on milk supply or infant health, support its use during lactation. However, as with any medication, it is always advisable for mothers to consult with healthcare providers to discuss their specific circumstances and any potential risks.

What is safe to take for nasal congestion while breastfeeding?

Safe decongestants for breastfeeding moms
Options like Robitussin, Delsym, Triaminic and Vicks DayQuil Cough are unlikely to affect your supply and have no reported infant side effects.

What is the best nasal spray for allergies 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.

Is nasal steroid spray safe while breastfeeding?

only tiny amounts are likely to be in breast milk when used as a nasal spray. It’s very unlikely to cause any side effects in your baby.

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 medications dry up the breast milk supply?

Epinephrine. Labetolol. High dose steroids (such as Solumedrol) Strong antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl)

Can breastfeeding moms take Flonase?

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. Your baby will not absorb a lot of fluticasone into their body from the breast milk.

Does nasal spray affect breast milk?

Nose Sprays: Nose sprays can be used. A decongestant spray (such as Afrin) is a safe choice while breastfeeding.

Is Flonase nasal spray safe while breastfeeding?

Flonase and Nasacort are nasal sprays that can help with sinus pressure and congestion. They are considered safe for breastmilk and babies but may take days or weeks to work. Tylenol (acetaminophen) is safe for babies and milk supply and may help mild to moderate pain or headaches.

Does allergy medicine affect breast milk?

There are relatively fewer data on the nonsedating second-generation antihistamines; however, published studies are reassuring. 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.

Will Flonase dry up breast milk?

Flonase and Nasacort are nasal sprays that can help with sinus pressure and congestion. They are considered safe for breastmilk and babies but may take days or weeks to work. Tylenol (acetaminophen) is safe for babies and milk supply and may help mild to moderate pain or headaches.

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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