Home » Blog » Breastfeeding » What allergy pill can you take while breastfeeding?

What allergy pill can you take while breastfeeding?

Understanding Allergy Medications While Breastfeeding
Navigating the world of medications can be particularly challenging for breastfeeding mothers, especially when it comes to managing allergies. Fortunately, there are several allergy medications that are considered safe for nursing mothers, allowing them to find relief without compromising their baby’s health.
Recommended Allergy Pills
When it comes to antihistamines, second-generation antihistamines are generally the preferred choice for breastfeeding mothers. These include:
– Loratadine (Claritin): This medication has been extensively studied and is known to pass into breast milk in minimal amounts, making it a safe option for nursing mothers.
– Cetirizine (Zyrtec): Similar to loratadine, cetirizine is also regarded as safe during breastfeeding, with low levels detected in breast milk.
– Fexofenadine (Allegra): This is another second-generation antihistamine that is considered compatible with breastfeeding, as it poses minimal risk to nursing infants.
These medications are favored not only for their effectiveness in alleviating allergy symptoms but also for their low sedative effects, which is crucial for mothers who need to remain alert and attentive to their infants.
Other Safe Options
In addition to oral antihistamines, certain nasal sprays are also deemed safe for breastfeeding mothers. For instance, budesonide (Rhinocort) and fluticasone (Flonase) are corticosteroid nasal sprays that can help manage allergy symptoms without significant risk to the nursing infant.
Medications to Avoid
While many allergy medications are safe, breastfeeding mothers should avoid first-generation antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and chlorpheniramine. These older antihistamines are more likely to cause sedation and can potentially affect milk supply . Additionally, decongestants like pseudoephedrine should be used with caution, as they may decrease milk production.
Consultation is Key
Despite the general safety of these medications, it is always advisable for breastfeeding mothers to consult with their healthcare provider before starting any new medication. Individual health circumstances can vary, and a healthcare professional can provide personalized advice based on specific needs and conditions.
In conclusion, breastfeeding mothers can find relief from allergy symptoms with medications like loratadine, cetirizine, and fexofenadine, as well as certain nasal sprays. By choosing the right medications and consulting with healthcare professionals, mothers can effectively manage their allergies while ensuring the safety of their nursing infants.

What allergy pills are safe 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 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.

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.

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 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.

Which allergy meds decrease milk supply?

Medications that affect breast milk production

  • Zyrtec-D (cetirizine/pseudoephedrine)
  • Claritin-D (loratadine/pseudoephedrine)
  • Allegra-D (fexofenadine/pseudoephedrine)
  • Aleve-D Sinus and Cold (naproxen/pseudoephedrine)

What medication dries up milk supply?

Women sometimes to ask for a tablet to stop their milk supply. This medication works best if it is taken within 12- 24 hours of your baby’s birth. The medication is not routinely prescribed in hospital due to the many side effects and health risks with this medication. The medication is called cabergoline (Dostinex®).

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)

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)

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.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

Leave a Comment