What allergy medicine can you take when breastfeeding?

Understanding Allergy Medications While Breastfeeding
Navigating the world of allergy medications can be particularly challenging for breastfeeding mothers. With concerns about the safety of various drugs for both the mother and the nursing infant, it’s crucial to understand which options are available and deemed safe.
Safe Allergy Medications
Research indicates that certain antihistamines are generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. Non-sedating antihistamines such as loratadine (Claritin), desloratadine (Clarinex), fexofenadine (Allegra), and cetirizine (Zyrtec) are often recommended. These medications have been studied, and the amount that passes into breast milk is minimal, making them unlikely to cause adverse effects in nursing infants .
For instance, loratadine has been specifically noted for its compatibility with breastfeeding. Studies show that the exposure of a nursing infant to loratadine through breast milk is very low, which supports its use during lactation. Similarly, fexofenadine and desloratadine are also considered safe when taken at standard therapeutic doses.
Considerations for Use
While these medications are generally 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 circumstances. Additionally, mothers should always double-check the active ingredients in any over-the-counter allergy medications, as formulations can vary.
Alternative Options
In addition to antihistamines, there are other non-pharmacological options available for managing allergy symptoms. Products designed to block allergens, such as nasal sprays that prevent pollen from entering the nasal passages, do not pass into breast milk and can be a suitable alternative.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can safely use certain allergy medications, particularly non-sedating antihistamines like loratadine, fexofenadine, and cetirizine. However, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure the safety and appropriateness of any medication. By taking informed steps, mothers can effectively manage their allergy symptoms while ensuring the well-being of their nursing infants.

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.

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 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.

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.

What allergy medicine can be taken 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 allergy medicine to take while pregnant?

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)

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.

Can I breastfeed if I took Benadryl?

Taking Benadryl occasionally during breastfeeding is safe. However, taking Benadryl regularly or in large doses may cause side effects in a child who is breastfed. It may also reduce your milk supply. Antihistamines that cause less sleepiness are usually preferred over oral Benadryl while breastfeeding.

Is it safe to take Claritin or Benadryl while pregnant?

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.

Can I take Zyrtec while pregnant?

Does taking cetirizine increase the chance of birth defects? Every pregnancy starts out with a 3-5% chance of having a birth defect. This is called the background risk. Studies involving over 1,300 babies exposed to cetirizine in the first trimester of pregnancy did not show an increased chance of birth defects.