What allergy medicine is safe when breastfeeding?

Understanding Allergy Medicine Safety During Breastfeeding
When it comes to managing allergies while breastfeeding, many mothers are understandably concerned about the safety of medications for both themselves and their infants. The good news is that several allergy medications are considered safe for breastfeeding mothers, allowing them to find relief without compromising their baby’s health.
Safe Antihistamines
Research indicates that certain antihistamines are compatible with breastfeeding. Loratadine (commonly known as Claritin), fexofenadine (Allegra), and cetirizine (Zyrtec) are among the medications that have been studied and deemed safe for nursing mothers. These drugs are known for their effectiveness in alleviating allergy symptoms while posing minimal risk to infants through breast milk. Specifically, loratadine has been shown to pass into breast milk in very small amounts, making it unlikely to cause adverse effects in nursing infants.
Nasal Sprays and Other Options
In addition to oral antihistamines, certain nasal sprays are also considered safe. Budesonide (Rhinocort) and fluticasone (Flonase) are examples of corticosteroid nasal sprays that can help manage allergy symptoms without significant risk to breastfeeding infants. These medications work locally in the nasal passages and have minimal systemic absorption, further reducing the likelihood of affecting breast milk.
Consultation is Key
While many allergy medications are generally regarded as safe, it is crucial for breastfeeding mothers to consult with their healthcare providers before starting any new medication. Individual health circumstances can vary, and a healthcare professional can provide personalized advice based on a mother’s specific situation and medical history.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can find relief from allergy symptoms with medications like loratadine, fexofenadine, and cetirizine, as well as certain nasal sprays. These options are supported by research indicating their safety during lactation. However, as with any medication, it is always best to seek guidance from a healthcare provider to ensure the chosen treatment aligns with both the mother’s health needs and the safety of her infant.

Will Claritin dry up 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.

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)

What allergy medicine can I take 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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

Why is Zyrtec not recommended while breastfeeding?

Zyrtec, although generally safe, is not recommended during breastfeeding because it passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. Possible side effects on the baby include irritation or lethargy. Always consult your healthcare provider before taking any medication while breastfeeding.

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.

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.