What antihistamines are safe for breastfeeding?

Understanding Antihistamines and Breastfeeding Safety
When it comes to managing allergies or cold symptoms while breastfeeding, many mothers are understandably concerned about the safety of medications for both themselves and their infants. Antihistamines, commonly used to alleviate allergy symptoms, can vary significantly in their safety profiles during lactation.
Preferred Antihistamines for Breastfeeding Mothers
Non-sedating antihistamines are generally recommended for breastfeeding mothers. These medications are less likely to cause sedation in infants, making them a safer choice. Among the most commonly advised options are cetirizine (Zyrtec) and loratadine (Claritin). Both of these antihistamines have been extensively used and are supported by research indicating their compatibility with breastfeeding.
Cetirizine and loratadine are favored not only for their effectiveness in treating allergy symptoms but also for their minimal transfer into breast milk. Studies suggest that the amounts of these medications that do pass into breast milk are low, which reduces the risk of exposure for the breastfeeding infant.
Considerations for Sedating Antihistamines
While first-generation sedating antihistamines (such as diphenhydramine, found in Benadryl) are also considered safe for use during breastfeeding, they are generally not the first choice. These medications can cause drowsiness in both the mother and the infant, which may lead to concerns about the baby’s alertness and feeding patterns. Therefore, while they are an option, healthcare providers often recommend non-sedating alternatives as a safer route.
General Guidelines for Medication Use
When considering any medication while breastfeeding, it is crucial for mothers to consult with healthcare professionals. They can provide personalized advice based on individual health needs and circumstances. Additionally, mothers should always check the active ingredients of any over-the-counter medications to ensure they are selecting safe options.
In summary, cetirizine and loratadine stand out as the preferred antihistamines for breastfeeding mothers, balancing efficacy with safety for both mother and child. As always, open communication with healthcare providers is key to making informed decisions about medication use during this critical time.

Why is Zyrtec not recommended for 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 take 25mg of Benadryl while breastfeeding?

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 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.

Which antihistamine is considered safe for a woman who plans to breastfeed?

Considering the minimal exposure of a nursing infant to the drugs through breast milk, maternal use of loratadine, desloratadine, or fexofenadine in a standard therapeutic dose is unlikely to result in adverse effects in nursing infants and is considered to be compatible with breastfeeding.

What can you take for allergies 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 antihistamine won’t dry up breast milk?

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.

What antihistamine can you 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)

What cold medicine can breastfeeding moms take?

Most cold medicines are safe while breastfeeding, especially if you take them short term and only when you need them. Some of the medications that are safe include: Expectorants that contain guaifenesin (Mucinex®, Robitussin® and others). Cough suppressants that contain dextromethorphan (DayQuil®, Delsym® and others).

Can you take Claritin or Zyrtec while breastfeeding?

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. Antihistamines such as Zatador are available as eye drops, which help itchy, watery eyes.

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.