What allergy relief is safe while breastfeeding?

Allergy Relief Options for Breastfeeding Mothers
Navigating allergy relief while breastfeeding can be a daunting task for new mothers. With concerns about the safety of medications for both the mother and the nursing infant, it’s essential to understand which options are considered safe and effective.
Understanding Antihistamines
Antihistamines are commonly used to alleviate allergy symptoms, but not all are suitable for breastfeeding mothers. Second-generation antihistamines, such as loratadine (Claritin), fexofenadine (Allegra), and cetirizine (Zyrtec), are generally regarded as safe for breastfeeding. These medications have been studied, and the amount that passes into breast milk is minimal, making them a preferred choice for nursing mothers.
In contrast, first-generation antihistamines, like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and chlorpheniramine, should be avoided. These older medications can cause sedation and may affect milk production, as they can lead to drowsiness in both the mother and the infant.
Decongestants and Their Risks
While decongestants can provide relief from nasal congestion, they are not recommended for breastfeeding mothers. Medications containing pseudoephedrine, for example, can reduce milk supply and may lead to irritability in infants. Therefore, it’s advisable to steer clear of these types of medications unless specifically directed by a healthcare provider.
Alternative Treatments
For mothers seeking non-pharmaceutical options, sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) is an alternative that is generally considered safe during breastfeeding. This treatment involves placing a tablet containing a small amount of the allergen under the tongue daily, which can help build tolerance over time.
Additionally, non-medication strategies such as saline nasal sprays, steam inhalation, and maintaining a clean environment can help manage allergy symptoms without the risks associated with medications.
Consulting Healthcare Providers
Ultimately, while many allergy medications are deemed safe for breastfeeding mothers, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any treatment. Each mother’s situation is unique, and a healthcare professional can provide personalized advice based on individual health needs and the specific allergies being treated.
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can find relief from allergies through careful selection of medications and alternative therapies. By prioritizing safety and consulting with healthcare professionals, mothers can effectively manage their allergy symptoms while ensuring the well-being of their infants.

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.

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 can I take for an allergy 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).

What are the safest antihistamines during pregnancy?

Safety of antihistamines during pregnancy
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) have recommended chlorpheniramine and tripelennamine as the antihistamines of choice for pregnant women.

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.

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.

What is the safest allergy medicine to take 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)

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).

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)

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.