What allergy medicine can I take while breastfeeding?

Allergy Medicine Options for Breastfeeding Mothers
Navigating allergy relief while breastfeeding can be challenging, as many medications may affect both the mother and her nursing infant. However, there are several options that are considered safe and effective.
Safe Antihistamines
When it comes to antihistamines, non-sedating options are generally recommended. Medications such as loratadine, desloratadine, and fexofenadine are deemed compatible with breastfeeding. These drugs have minimal transfer into breast milk and are unlikely to cause adverse effects in nursing infants when taken at standard therapeutic doses. This makes them a preferred choice for mothers seeking relief from allergy symptoms without compromising their baby’s safety.
Nasal Decongestants
For those dealing with nasal congestion, oxymetazoline, commonly found in products like Afrin, is a nasal spray that can be safely used while breastfeeding. This is because it is not significantly absorbed into the bloodstream from the nasal passages, thus minimizing any potential impact on milk supply.
Natural Remedies
In addition to conventional medications, many breastfeeding mothers may find relief through natural remedies. Staying hydrated, using a humidifier, and increasing vitamin C intake through foods or supplements can help alleviate allergy symptoms. Herbal options like echinacea and garlic are also generally recognized as safe for nursing mothers.
Medications to Avoid
It’s crucial to be aware of medications that should be avoided while breastfeeding. First-generation antihistamines, such as chlorpheniramine, brompheniramine, and diphenhydramine, as well as decongestants like pseudoephedrine, can potentially affect milk supply and are not recommended.
Conclusion
Breastfeeding mothers have several options for managing allergies safely. Non-sedating antihistamines and certain nasal sprays can provide effective relief without posing risks to the infant. Additionally, natural remedies can complement these treatments. However, it is always advisable for mothers to consult with healthcare providers before starting any new medication to ensure the safety of both mother and child.

Can I take Texa allergy while breastfeeding?

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Do not use TEXA ALLERGY TABLETS if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant or you are breastfeeding your baby (see Do not take TEXA ALLERGY TABLETS). If you are pregnant or breastfeeding your baby, please consult your healthcare provider for advice before taking TEXA ALLERGY TABLETS.

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?

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.

Does Zyrtec dry up breast milk?

Remember, there are also many medications that can reduce your milk supply. For example, antihistamines like Benadryl, Zyrtec, Allegra, etc, or decongestants like Sudafed, can decrease your milk supply.

Can you 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.

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.

Will Claritin dry up my breast milk?

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.

Why is Zyrtec not recommended for 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.

What allergy medications are safe during pregnancy?

Safe OTC medications:

• Diphenhydramine (Benadryl®)
• Loratidine (Claritin®)
• Cetirizine (Zyrtec®)
• Nasal steroid (Flonase®)
• Guaifenesin (plain Mucinex®)
• Mentholated cream (Vicks Vapor Rub®)
• Afrin® may be used, but only for a short time (three days or less)

Is Claritin better than Zyrtec 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).