Should I take Claritin or Zyrtec while breastfeeding?

Claritin vs. Zyrtec: A Breastfeeding Perspective
When it comes to managing allergies while breastfeeding, many mothers find themselves weighing the options between Claritin (loratadine) and Zyrtec (cetirizine). Both medications are popular antihistamines, but their safety profiles during lactation can influence a mother’s choice.
Safety of Antihistamines During Breastfeeding
Research indicates that both Claritin and Zyrtec are generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. According to recent guidelines, loratadine, the active ingredient in Claritin, is often recommended due to its minimal sedative effects and low transfer into breast milk. This makes it a favorable option for mothers who need relief from allergy symptoms without risking drowsiness in their infants.
On the other hand, cetirizine, the active ingredient in Zyrtec, is also deemed acceptable for occasional use during breastfeeding. However, it is important to note that larger doses or prolonged use of cetirizine may lead to potential side effects such as drowsiness in infants or a decrease in milk supply. Therefore, while small doses are generally safe, caution is advised with higher doses.
Considerations for Use
When choosing between Claritin and Zyrtec, mothers should consider their specific symptoms and how each medication affects them personally. Claritin is less likely to cause sedation, making it a better choice for those who need to remain alert and active throughout the day. In contrast, Zyrtec may provide more effective relief for severe allergy symptoms but carries a slightly higher risk of sedation.
It is also crucial for breastfeeding mothers to consult with their healthcare provider before starting any new medication. This ensures that the chosen antihistamine aligns with their health needs and those of their baby.
Conclusion
In summary, both Claritin and Zyrtec can be safely used by breastfeeding mothers, but individual circumstances and preferences should guide the choice. Claritin may be preferable for those seeking a non-sedating option, while Zyrtec can be effective for more intense allergy relief, provided it is used judiciously. Always prioritize a discussion with a healthcare professional to tailor the decision to your specific situation.

What cold medicine won’t affect my milk supply?

Options like Robitussin, Delsym, Triaminic and Vicks DayQuil Cough are unlikely to affect your supply and have no reported infant side effects. Pseudoephedrine. Another cold medicine safe for breastfeeding moms and their little ones is pseudoephedrine, the active ingredient in Sudafed and Allegra D.

What can I take for allergies 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 is the safest antihistamine while breastfeeding?

Recommendation. 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.

Does Claritin affect baby?

Claritin is safe to take during pregnancy and nursing. However, a person should always consult a doctor before taking any medication while pregnant or nursing. While most antihistamines are safe, other medications, such as decongestants, may pose a risk to the pregnant person and fetus.

Is Zyrtec or Claritin better for babies?

In order of preference, I recommend: Zyrtec (cetirizine) – Zyrtec can be given to children as young as 6-months and has a quick onset of action (1 hour). It’s more likely to cause drowsiness than Claritin, but more effective than Allegra. Xyzal has the same active ingredient as Zyrtec, save your money.

Why can’t you take Zyrtec while 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.

Is Zyrtec or Claritin better 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 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.

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 you take Claritin while breastfeeding?

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.