Is Zyrtec safe to take while breastfeeding?

Understanding Zyrtec and Breastfeeding Safety
When it comes to managing allergies while breastfeeding, many mothers wonder about the safety of medications like Zyrtec, which contains the active ingredient cetirizine. This antihistamine is commonly used to alleviate symptoms associated with allergies, such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. But is it safe for nursing mothers?
Safety Profile of Zyrtec During Breastfeeding
Research indicates that Zyrtec is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. According to medical experts, small or occasional doses of cetirizine are acceptable during lactation. This is largely due to the fact that cetirizine enters breast milk in only small amounts, which minimizes the potential for adverse effects on the breastfeeding infant .
Moreover, there have been no significant reports of negative reactions in breastfeeding mothers or their infants linked to the use of Zyrtec. This long-standing safety record contributes to its recommendation as one of the safer options for allergy relief during breastfeeding .
Potential Effects on Infants
While cetirizine is deemed safe, it is important to note that larger doses or prolonged use may lead to side effects such as drowsiness in infants or a decrease in milk supply. This risk is particularly heightened when cetirizine is combined with other medications, such as sympathomimetics like pseudoephedrine. Therefore, moderation is key, and mothers are advised to stick to small doses when using Zyrtec.
Recommendations from Experts
Experts recommend Zyrtec as one of the preferred antihistamines for breastfeeding mothers, alongside loratadine (Claritin). These medications are favored due to their lower likelihood of causing sedation in both the mother and the nursing child.
In summary, Zyrtec can be a safe choice for breastfeeding mothers, provided it is taken in moderation. As always, it is advisable for mothers to consult with their healthcare provider before starting any new medication to ensure it aligns with their specific health needs and circumstances.

What allergy pill can I take 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).

Can I continue to take Zyrtec while pregnant?

Yes, Zyrtec is considered safe to take during all three trimesters of pregnancy, says Monte Swarup, MD, an OB-GYN based in Arizona and founder of HPV Hub. There have been numerous studies showing no link to birth defects with antihistamines taken during pregnancy.

What drugs can pass through a mother’s breast milk and harm a nursing baby?

Drugs

• If you use amphetamines, ecstasy, cocaine or heroin, you should not breastfeed for 24 hours after use.
• If you smoke cannabis or tobacco you should breastfeed your baby before you smoke, and smoke outside and away from the baby. Do not have your baby in the same room as the smoke.

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.

What is not recommended for breastfeeding?

Medical Contraindications for Breastfeeding
There are a few medical contraindications to breastfeeding, and these include: An infant who has the metabolic disorder of classic galactosemia (galactose 1-phosphate uridyltransferase deficiency). A mother living with human T-cell lymphotrophic virus type I or type II.

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.

Why shouldn’t you take Zyrtec while breastfeeding?

Antihistamines and breastfeeding
In a telephone follow-up study conducted by Motherisk, 10% of mothers reported irritability and colicky symptoms in their infants exposed to various antihistamines, and drowsiness was reported in 1.6% of infants.

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.

Which works better, Claritin or Zyrtec?

Zyrtec (cetirizine) and Claritin (loratadine) are two popular brands. They contain different compounds but appear to be equally effective. Antihistamines can reduce allergy symptoms, such as watering eyes, itchy skin, hives, and swelling.

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?