What allergy medications can you take while breastfeeding?

Allergy Medications Safe for Breastfeeding Mothers
Navigating the world of allergy medications while breastfeeding can be daunting for new mothers. It’s crucial to ensure that any medication taken does not adversely affect the infant. Fortunately, several allergy medications are considered safe for breastfeeding mothers, allowing them to manage their symptoms without compromising their baby’s health.
Antihistamines: The Preferred Choice
Antihistamines are commonly used to treat allergy symptoms, and many of them are compatible with breastfeeding. Second-generation antihistamines, such as loratadine (Claritin), cetirizine (Zyrtec), and fexofenadine (Allegra), are generally regarded as safe. Studies indicate that these medications have minimal transfer into breast milk, making them unlikely to cause adverse effects in nursing infants.
Loratadine, in particular, has been well-studied, and its use in standard therapeutic doses is considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. Similarly, cetirizine and fexofenadine have also been shown to have low levels in breast milk, further supporting their safety.
Nasal Sprays: A Safe Alternative
For those who prefer not to take oral medications, nasal sprays can be an effective alternative. For instance, oxymetazoline (Afrin) is a nasal decongestant that can be used safely while breastfeeding. Since it is not significantly absorbed into the bloodstream from the nasal passages, it does not impact milk supply like oral decongestants might.
Additionally, products designed to block allergens from entering the nasal passages, such as Prevalin allergy® and NasalGuard Allergie Block®, are also safe options as they do not pass into breast milk.
Consultation is Key
While many allergy medications are deemed safe, it is always advisable for breastfeeding mothers to consult with their healthcare provider before starting any new medication. This ensures that the chosen treatment aligns with their specific health needs and those of their baby.
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can find relief from allergy symptoms through various safe medications, primarily second-generation antihistamines and certain nasal sprays. By staying informed and consulting healthcare professionals, mothers can effectively manage their allergies while ensuring the well-being of their infants.

Which antihistamine is safe in breastfeeding?

Loratadine or cetirizine are usually OK to take while breastfeeding. Always check the leaflet that comes with your medicine to see if it’s safe for you before taking it or giving it to your child.

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)

Will Claritin dry up my milk supply?

Is It Safe to Take Claritin While Breastfeeding? While regular Claritin is completely fine, taking Claritin-D while breastfeeding may reduce milk supply. Claritin-D contains both loratadine, an antihistamine, and pseudoephedrine sulfate, a nasal decongestant,2 which may reduce milk supply, says Silverman.

Should I take Claritin or Zyrtec while breastfeeding?

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. Antihistamines such as Zatador are available as eye drops, which help itchy, watery eyes.

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.

What allergy medicine can you take 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.

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.

Does Zyrtec decrease milk supply?

High doses of sedating antihistamines have been reported by mothers to decrease milk production, but there is no scientific proof this occurs.

Is it safe to take Zyrtec in breastmilk?

Breastfeeding while taking cetirizine:
Cetirizine gets into breast milk in small amounts. Most reports show no problems for babies who are exposed to cetirizine through breast milk.

Can I breastfeed if I have seasonal allergies?

Yes. A parent can still breastfeed/chestfeed when suffering from seasonal allergies. You may not be feeling well because you are sneezing and your eyes are puffy, but it is still safe to breastfeed/chestfeed. However, prescription or over-the-counter allergy medication may affect your milk production.