Is it safe to take hydroxyzine while breastfeeding?

Understanding Hydroxyzine and Breastfeeding Safety
Hydroxyzine, a first-generation antihistamine commonly prescribed for anxiety and allergic reactions, raises important questions regarding its safety during breastfeeding. As many new mothers seek relief from anxiety or allergy symptoms, understanding the implications of taking hydroxyzine while nursing is crucial.
Safety Profile of Hydroxyzine in Breastfeeding
Research indicates that small occasional doses of hydroxyzine are generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. According to the LactMed database, these doses are unlikely to cause adverse effects in breastfed infants. However, caution is advised with larger doses or prolonged use, as these may lead to sedation in infants or potentially decrease milk supply, especially when combined with other medications that stimulate the sympathetic nervous system.
Monitoring and Recommendations
Healthcare professionals recommend that mothers taking hydroxyzine should closely monitor their infants for any signs of sedation or irritability. Additionally, it is advised against bed-sharing while on this medication to ensure the safety of the infant. The potential for hydroxyzine to cause sedation in infants is a significant concern, as it has been reported in some cases.
Alternatives and Considerations
For mothers seeking alternatives, cetirizine, a metabolite of hydroxyzine, is often cited as a safer option during breastfeeding. It is known to be compatible with nursing and may provide similar antihistaminic effects without the same level of sedation risk. Ultimately, the decision to use hydroxyzine should involve a careful discussion between the mother and her healthcare provider, weighing the benefits of symptom relief against the potential risks to the infant.
Conclusion
In summary, while hydroxyzine can be used safely in small doses during breastfeeding, it is essential for mothers to remain vigilant about their infants’ reactions and consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice. The balance between managing maternal health and ensuring infant safety is paramount, and informed decisions can help navigate this complex issue effectively.

Can hydroxyzine affect the baby?

When it comes to phenothiazine (class C), its use should be avoided during pregnancy. Hydroxyzine, in the first trimester, increases the risk of fetal defects. It can also cause hypotension, myoclonus, hypoxia, and central nervous system (CNS) depression. In animal studies, hydroxyzine was teratogenic.

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 are the nursing considerations of hydroxyzine?

Do not breastfeed while taking hydroxyzine. talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking hydroxyzine if you are 65 years of age or older. Older adults should not usually take hydroxyzine because it is not as safe as other medications that can be used to treat the same condition.

Who Cannot take hydroxyzine?

Hydroxyzine can cause abnormal heart rhythms and low blood pressure. Your risk for these side effects is higher if you already have heart problems before taking hydroxyzine. Liver or kidney problems. If you have liver or kidney problems, tell your doctor before starting hydroxyzine oral tablets.

Who should avoid hydroxyzine?

Heart disease or. Heart failure, uncompensated or. Heart rhythm problems (eg, long QT syndrome, slow heartbeat), or family history of—Use with caution. May cause side effects to become worse.

Can I take hydroxyzine and breastfeeding?

The preferred choice of sedating antihistamine is chlorphenamine due to extensive experience of safe use. Hydroxyzine or promethazine can be used when breastfeeding with caution and close monitoring, if chlorphenamine is not suitable.

What can I take for anxiety while breastfeeding?

Safe medication in breastfeeding
They include, in no particular order: SSRI antidepressants e.g. sertraline, citalopram, fluoxetine, paroxetine all have anti- anxiety activity. They take 4 to 6 weeks to exert full benefit. Tri-cyclic antidepressants e.g. amitriptyline, imipramine.

What is hydroxyzine used for in infants?

It is used to put your child to sleep for surgery. It is used to treat mood problems. It is used to treat upset stomach and throwing up. It may be given to your child for other reasons.

What is the best sedative for breastfeeding patients?

This includes the benzodiazepines and antihistamines such as promethazine. However, the ‘z- drugs’ (zolpidem and zopiclone) are preferred for the short-term management of insomnia during breastfeeding, as they have shorter half-lives than the benzodiazepines and appear to pass into breast milk in small amounts.

Can my anxiety affect my breastfed baby?

Stress May Affect Cortisol Levels
As your stress level rises, the level of cortisol in your breast milk also increases. When your baby nurses, they may consume some of this extra cortisol.