Does Zyrtec dry up breast milk?

Understanding the Impact of Zyrtec on Breast Milk Supply
Zyrtec, a popular antihistamine containing cetirizine, is commonly used to alleviate allergy symptoms. However, its effects on breastfeeding mothers and their milk supply have raised concerns among new moms.
Does Zyrtec Dry Up Breast Milk?
The consensus among health professionals is that small, occasional doses of cetirizine are generally considered acceptable during breastfeeding. However, caution is advised regarding larger doses or prolonged use. Research indicates that such usage may lead to drowsiness in infants and could potentially decrease milk supply. This risk is particularly heightened when cetirizine is combined with other medications, such as sympathomimetics like pseudoephedrine, which are known to further impact lactation negatively.
Moreover, it is important to note that antihistamines, including Zyrtec, can reduce milk production. This is a common concern among breastfeeding mothers, as the demand for milk is crucial for maintaining supply. The more frequently a mother nurses or pumps, the more her body recognizes the need to produce milk. Therefore, introducing medications that may inhibit this process can be counterproductive.
Expert Opinions and Recommendations
Experts recommend that breastfeeding mothers consult with healthcare providers before taking Zyrtec or any antihistamine. While some mothers report using Zyrtec without noticeable effects on their milk supply, individual responses can vary significantly. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) suggests that while cetirizine is relatively safe, it is essential to monitor any changes in both the mother and infant.
In summary, while Zyrtec can be used by breastfeeding mothers in moderation, it is crucial to be aware of its potential to decrease milk supply, especially with higher doses or prolonged use. Mothers should always prioritize open communication with their healthcare providers to ensure both their health and that of their infants are safeguarded.

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®).

Does Zyrtec stop breast milk?

It has been suggested that use of an antihistamine might lower the amount of breast milk made by the body, but this has not been proven. A product label for cetirizine recommends people who are breastfeeding not use this medication. But the benefit of using cetirizine may outweigh possible risks.

Does Benadryl stop lactation?

Benadryl is an antihistamine drug that is considered to be safe during pregnancy. 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.

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.

Is cetirizine bad for breastfeeding?

If your doctor or health visitor says your baby is healthy, you can take cetirizine while breastfeeding. There is some information available which shows that only very small amounts get into breast milk. Cetirizine has been used for many years while breastfeeding without side effects in babies.

Why can’t you take antihistamines while breastfeeding?

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.

Is Claritin better than Zyrtec 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).

What antihistamines will dry up breast milk?

Remember, there are also many medications that can reduce your milk supply. For example, antihistamines like Benadryl, Zyrtec, Allegra, etc, or decongestants like Sudafed, can decrease your milk supply.

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)

What vitamin dries up breast milk?

PIP: Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine hydrochloride) is contained in most prenatal and multivitamin preparations. Available research states that pyridoxine blocks lactation and inhibits the secretion of breast milk in nursing mothers by suppressing the normally elevated prolactin hormone levels encountered during puerperium.