What antihistamines can you take while breastfeeding?

Understanding Antihistamines During Breastfeeding
When it comes to managing allergies while breastfeeding, many mothers are understandably concerned about the safety of medications they might take. Antihistamines, commonly used to alleviate allergy symptoms, can be a point of contention. However, recent insights suggest that many antihistamines are safe for breastfeeding mothers, with some being preferred over others.
Preferred Antihistamines
Non-sedating antihistamines are generally recommended for breastfeeding mothers. These medications, such as cetirizine (Zyrtec) and loratadine (Claritin), are favored because they are less likely to cause sedation in both the mother and the infant . This is particularly important as sedating antihistamines can potentially affect the baby’s alertness and feeding patterns.
Research indicates that all antihistamines are considered safe to use during breastfeeding, as only minimal amounts are excreted into breast milk. This small transfer is unlikely to cause any adverse effects on a breastfeeding infant. However, it is always wise for mothers to monitor their infants for any unusual reactions when starting a new medication.
Caution with Other Antihistamines
While many antihistamines are deemed safe, some may require caution. For instance, sedating antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) can be used, but they may lead to increased drowsiness in both the mother and the baby. Therefore, if a mother chooses to use a sedating antihistamine, it is advisable to do so with careful monitoring of the infant’s response.
General Guidelines
When considering antihistamines while breastfeeding, mothers should:
1. Opt for non-sedating options: Cetirizine and loratadine are the go-to choices.
2. Consult healthcare providers: Always discuss with a doctor or pharmacist before starting any new medication to ensure it aligns with individual health needs and circumstances.
3. Monitor the infant: Keep an eye on the baby for any signs of unusual drowsiness or feeding issues, especially when trying a new antihistamine.
In conclusion, breastfeeding mothers can manage their allergy symptoms effectively with the right choice of antihistamines. By prioritizing non-sedating options and maintaining open communication with healthcare professionals, mothers can ensure both their health and the well-being of their infants.

Should I 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.

Which antihistamine doesn t reduce milk supply?

Antihistamines are the medication of choice for these symptoms and are considered safe for your baby and your milk supply. 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 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).

Will Zyrtec dry up my milk supply?

Remember, there are also many medications that can reduce your milk supply. For example, antihistamines like Benadryl, Zyrtec, Allegra, etc, or decongestants like Sudafed, can decrease your milk supply.

Will Claritin dry up my breast milk?

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 antihistamine is safe during 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 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.

Can I take Benadryl if I’m 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.

Which antihistamine is safest in 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.