What can I use for allergies while breastfeeding?

Managing Allergies While Breastfeeding
Navigating allergies while breastfeeding can be a challenging experience for new mothers. It’s essential to understand both the implications of allergies on breastfeeding and the safe options available for managing symptoms without compromising the health of the infant.
Understanding Allergies and Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is widely recognized as the optimal method for infant feeding, providing numerous health benefits for both mother and child. However, mothers may worry about the potential for their diet to affect their breastfeeding infant, particularly regarding food allergies. Research indicates that avoiding certain foods during breastfeeding does not significantly reduce the risk of developing food allergies in infants. In fact, introducing a variety of foods while breastfeeding may help build the baby’s tolerance to allergens later in life.
Safe Allergy Medications
For mothers suffering from seasonal allergies or other allergic reactions, the choice of medication is crucial. According to recent guidelines, antihistamines such as cetirizine (Zyrtec) and loratadine (Claritin) are considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. These medications have been studied for their effects on breast milk and are generally regarded as compatible with breastfeeding.
However, it is advisable to avoid taking any medications during the first six weeks postpartum, as this period is critical for establishing milk supply. Some allergy medications can potentially decrease milk production.
Non-Medication Approaches
In addition to medication, there are several non-pharmacological strategies that breastfeeding mothers can employ to alleviate allergy symptoms:
– Nasal Sprays and Eye Drops: Using saline nasal sprays or antihistamine eye drops can provide relief without the systemic effects of oral medications.
– Steam Treatments: Inhaling steam can help relieve nasal congestion and is a safe alternative to medication.
– Environmental Control: Reducing exposure to allergens, such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander, can significantly help manage symptoms. Keeping windows closed during high pollen seasons and using air purifiers can create a more comfortable environment.
Conclusion
While managing allergies during breastfeeding can be complex, there are effective strategies and safe medications available. Mothers should feel empowered to seek relief from allergy symptoms while continuing to provide the best nutrition for their infants. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication or treatment to ensure it aligns with both the mother’s and baby’s health needs.

What is the best decongestant to dry up breast milk?

The cold medication pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) may help reduce milk production. Researchers found that participants who took the pseudoephedrine had a significant reduction in breastmilk production compared to the participants who took a placebo (a pill that looks like medication but contains no medication).

What can breastfeeding moms take for allergies?

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)

Will Zyrtec dry up my milk supply?

High doses of sedating antihistamines have been reported by mothers to decrease milk production, but there is no scientific proof this occurs.

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 is safe for breastfeeding?

Loratadine or cetirizine are usually OK to take while breastfeeding. Always check the leaflet that comes with your medicine to see if it’s safe for you before taking it or giving it to your child.

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.

What is the best natural antihistamine?

Top 8 natural antihistamines for allergies

• Vitamin C.
• Quercetin.
• Ceylon cinnamon.
• Butterbur.
• Probiotics.
• Black pepper extract.
• Berberine.
• Spirulina.

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.

Is Zyrtec or Claritin better for babies?

In order of preference, I recommend: Zyrtec (cetirizine) – Zyrtec can be given to children as young as 6-months and has a quick onset of action (1 hour). It’s more likely to cause drowsiness than Claritin, but more effective than Allegra. Xyzal has the same active ingredient as Zyrtec, save your money.