Is it safe to take Benadryl or Zyrtec while breastfeeding?

Understanding the Safety of Benadryl and Zyrtec While Breastfeeding
As many new mothers navigate the challenges of breastfeeding, questions about medication safety often arise, particularly concerning common antihistamines like Benadryl (diphenhydramine) and Zyrtec (cetirizine). Both medications are widely used to alleviate allergy symptoms, but their safety profiles during lactation differ significantly.
Benadryl: Caution Advised
Benadryl, a first-generation antihistamine, is known for its sedative effects. While it is generally considered safe for occasional use during breastfeeding, caution is advised. The drug can pass into breast milk, and its sedative properties may lead to drowsiness in infants. Health professionals often recommend monitoring the baby for any signs of excessive sleepiness or irritability if the mother chooses to take Benadryl.
Moreover, the potential for Benadryl to decrease milk supply is a concern, especially with prolonged use or higher doses. Therefore, while it may be compatible with breastfeeding, it is often suggested that mothers opt for alternatives that pose fewer risks.
Zyrtec: A Safer Alternative
In contrast, Zyrtec is classified as a second-generation antihistamine, which is generally preferred for breastfeeding mothers. Research indicates that cetirizine reaches lower levels in breast milk compared to first-generation antihistamines, making it a safer choice for managing allergy symptoms while nursing. The British Society for Allergy and Clinical Immunology recommends cetirizine as a suitable option, highlighting its minimal impact on both the mother and the infant.
While small, occasional doses of Zyrtec are considered acceptable, larger doses or prolonged use may still pose risks, such as drowsiness in the infant or potential effects on milk supply. Thus, moderation is key, and mothers should consult healthcare providers for personalized advice.
Conclusion: Making Informed Choices
In summary, while both Benadryl and Zyrtec can be used by breastfeeding mothers, Zyrtec is generally regarded as the safer option due to its lower sedative effects and reduced transfer into breast milk. Mothers should always consult with their healthcare providers before starting any medication to ensure it aligns with their specific health needs and breastfeeding goals. Monitoring the infant for any adverse reactions is also crucial, regardless of the antihistamine chosen.

Can Zyrtec harm my baby?

Does taking cetirizine increase the chance of birth defects? Every pregnancy starts out with a 3-5% chance of having a birth defect. This is called the background risk. Studies involving over 1,300 babies exposed to cetirizine in the first trimester of pregnancy did not show an increased chance of birth defects.

Is Zyrtec safe for pregnancy?

Yes, Zyrtec is safe to take during pregnancy, including during early pregnancy. Studies have shown that there is no known link between most antihistamines, including Zyrtec, and birth defects.

Why can’t babies have Zyrtec?

Children under 2 years of age should not be given any kind of cough and cold product that contains a decongestant or antihistamine because serious and possibly life-threatening side effects could occur. Reported side effects of these products included convulsions, rapid heart rates and death. What about older children?

What medications should be avoided while breastfeeding?

Common medicines that are not recommended when you’re breastfeeding include:

• codeine phosphate.
• decongestants that come as tablets, liquids or powders that you swallow.
• some nasal decongestants that come as nose sprays or drops – check with a GP or pharmacist before using them.
• aspirin for pain relief.

Is Benadryl safe 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.

Is Zyrtec ok while breastfeeding?

Cold and allergy meds that are safe while breastfeeding include: Cetirizine (Zyrtec) and loratadine (Claritin) are the recommended antihistamines when breastfeeding. Other antihistamines are also considered safe but do not have as much research to support this. These include Allegra and Xyzal.

How long after Zyrtec can I take Benadryl?

How long to wait between doses of two oral antihistamines depends on the specific medications. If you’ve taken an antihistamine like Zyrtec, its effects can last for up to 24 hours. So you’d want to wait until it’s been at least 24 hours since taking Zyrtec to take Benadryl (or another antihistamine).

Will allergy meds dry up breast milk?

Affect on Milk Supply
Studies show some nasal decongestants, though considered safe to take while breastfeeding, have been shown to decrease milk supply. Therefore, avoid allergy medications that are combined with a decongestant whenever possible.

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)

Can I pass my allergies to my baby through breastfeeding?

Food allergens in the mother’s diet can pass through into the breastmilk so a breastfed baby can have an allergic response or intolerance to something in the mother’s diet.