What allergy medicine is safe while 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 safe and effective.
Safe Allergy Medications
Research indicates that certain second-generation antihistamines are generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. Medications such as loratadine (commonly known as Claritin), desloratadine, and fexofenadine have been studied and are deemed compatible with breastfeeding. These drugs are less likely to cause sedation in both the mother and the infant, making them preferable choices for managing allergy symptoms.
Additionally, cetirizine (Zyrtec) is another option that is often recommended. Studies show that the amount of these medications that passes into breast milk is minimal, which significantly reduces the risk of adverse effects in nursing infants.
Medications to Avoid
Conversely, breastfeeding mothers should be cautious with first-generation antihistamines and certain decongestants. Medications such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), chlorpheniramine, and brompheniramine are known to cause sedation and may lead to increased drowsiness in infants. Furthermore, decongestants like pseudoephedrine can potentially reduce milk supply, making them less desirable for nursing mothers.
Best Practices for Medication Use
When taking any medication while breastfeeding, it is essential to maintain regular breastfeeding practices. This ensures that the infant receives the necessary nutrients while minimizing exposure to any medication. If a mother has severe allergies, alternative treatments such as sublingual immunotherapy may be considered, which can provide relief without the risks associated with systemic medications.
Consultation with Healthcare Providers
Ultimately, the best course of action for breastfeeding mothers is to consult with healthcare providers regarding any medications. They can provide personalized advice based on individual health needs and the specific medications being considered. This collaborative approach ensures that both the mother’s health and the infant’s safety are prioritized.
In summary, while many allergy medications are safe for breastfeeding mothers, it is crucial to choose the right ones and consult with healthcare professionals to ensure the well-being of both mother and child.

What allergies can breastfed babies have?

Common problem foods which may be eaten by a baby or a breastfeeding mother include:

• Milk and other dairy products such as butter, yoghurt, cheese, whey, casein, caseinate, lactose.
• Egg.
• Peanut.
• Soy.
• Wheat.
• Fish.
• Sesame seeds (in tahini and hummus)
• Lupin/lentils (including chickpeas which are in hummus)

Why is Zyrtec not recommended 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 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.

What is the safest allergy pill 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 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.

What allergy medication can you take 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).

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.

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.