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Is Flonase safe while breastfeeding?

Understanding Flonase and Breastfeeding Safety
Flonase, a nasal spray containing the active ingredient fluticasone, is commonly used to relieve allergy symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing, and runny nose. For breastfeeding mothers, the safety of using Flonase is a pertinent concern, especially as they navigate the complexities of medication use while nursing.
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 breast milk are believed to be minimal, and thus unlikely to affect a nursing infant. Specifically, inhaled and nasal corticosteroids, including Flonase, are regarded as acceptable options for breastfeeding mothers.
The NHS also provides guidance indicating that while the use of fluticasone nasal spray is permissible during breastfeeding, it is always advisable for mothers to consult with their healthcare providers before starting any new medication. This is particularly important as individual health circumstances can vary widely.
Potential Effects on Infants
While there is limited direct research on the effects of Flonase on breastfed infants, the consensus among healthcare professionals is that the systemic absorption of fluticasone is low. This means that even if small amounts were to be excreted in breast milk, they would likely be insufficient to cause any adverse effects in infants.
Moreover, topical forms of fluticasone have not been extensively studied in breastfeeding contexts, but the risk of significant systemic effects from short-term use is considered low. This reinforces the notion that occasional use of Flonase is unlikely to pose a risk to nursing infants.
Recommendations for Breastfeeding Mothers
For mothers experiencing allergy symptoms, the discomfort can be significant, impacting their ability to care for their infants. Flonase can provide relief, but it is crucial to approach its use thoughtfully. Consulting with a healthcare provider can help ensure that the benefits of using Flonase outweigh any potential risks.
In summary, while Flonase is generally deemed safe for breastfeeding mothers, personalized medical advice is essential to address individual health needs and circumstances. This proactive approach not only ensures the well-being of the mother but also safeguards the health of the breastfeeding infant.

Can I use Flonase with breastfeeding?

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.

Is it safe to use FLONASE nasal spray while pregnant?

Safe Medications During Pregnancy
These OTC meds are safe when taken as directed: Colds and flu: Robitussin, Vicks, saline nasal drops and spray, Flonase, Actifed, Nasocort, Sudafed (not in first trimester), Tylenol and Tylenol cold.

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.

Is it safe to use Flonase while pregnant?

Safe Medications During Pregnancy
These OTC meds are safe when taken as directed: Colds and flu: Robitussin, Vicks, saline nasal drops and spray, Flonase, Actifed, Nasocort, Sudafed (not in first trimester), Tylenol and Tylenol cold. Do not use sustained action forms or multiple symptom forms of these drugs.

Why is Zyrtec not recommended while breastfeeding?

Zyrtec, although generally safe, is not recommended during breastfeeding because it passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. Possible side effects on the baby include irritation or lethargy. Always consult your healthcare provider before taking any medication while breastfeeding.

What is the best decongestant to stop breastfeeding?

Take Sudafed.
Pseudoephedrine, or Sudafed, is a common over-the-counter decongestant. Research shows the Sudafed causes a noticeable decrease in milk production. Like birth control, Sudafed should only be used to suppress lactation under the supervision of a doctor.

What nasal spray can I use 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 it safe to use FLONASE while pregnant?

Safe Medications During Pregnancy
These OTC meds are safe when taken as directed: Colds and flu: Robitussin, Vicks, saline nasal drops and spray, Flonase, Actifed, Nasocort, Sudafed (not in first trimester), Tylenol and Tylenol cold. Do not use sustained action forms or multiple symptom forms of these drugs.

Why is Zyrtec not recommended for breastfeeding?

However, caution is advised for cetirizine use while breastfeeding due to the theoretical risk of CNS depression based on limited human data and risk of decreased milk production.

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)

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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