What allergy meds can you take while breastfeeding?

Allergy Medications and Breastfeeding: What You Need to Know
Navigating the world of allergy medications while breastfeeding can be daunting for new 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 considered safe and effective.
Recommended Antihistamines
When it comes to antihistamines, cetirizine (Zyrtec) and loratadine (Claritin) are the most commonly recommended choices for breastfeeding mothers. These medications are classified as non-sedating antihistamines, which means they are less likely to cause drowsiness in both the mother and the infant. Research indicates that the amount of these drugs that passes into breast milk is minimal, making them a safer option for managing allergy symptoms.
Other Safe Options
In addition to Zyrtec and Claritin, fexofenadine (Allegra) is also considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. While these medications have been well-studied, other antihistamines like desloratadine and levocetirizine (Xyzal) are generally regarded as compatible with breastfeeding, although they may not have as extensive research backing their use.
Caution with First-Generation Antihistamines
Mothers should exercise caution with first-generation antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl). While these medications can be effective for allergy relief, they are known to cause sedation, which could potentially affect the infant’s alertness and may also decrease milk supply. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid these types of medications unless specifically recommended by a healthcare provider.
Consulting Healthcare Providers
Before starting any new medication, it is essential for breastfeeding mothers to consult with their healthcare provider. This ensures that the chosen allergy medication is safe for both the mother and her baby, taking into account individual health circumstances and any other medications being taken.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can safely use non-sedating antihistamines like cetirizine, loratadine, and fexofenadine to manage allergy symptoms. However, caution should be exercised with first-generation antihistamines due to their sedative effects. Always consult with a healthcare professional to make informed decisions about allergy medications while breastfeeding.

How to get rid of a cold while breastfeeding?

Try the following to help the discomfort of a cold or a sore throat when breastfeeding:

1. Take honey and lemon mixed in hot water, or sip on other warm fluids like natural teas to keep your throat moist.
2. Gargle some salt water.
3. If you have a cough, try a cough medicine that is based on glycerine and honey.

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 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.

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 pill 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.

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.

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.

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)

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.

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.