What can you take for an allergic reaction while breastfeeding?

Understanding Allergic Reactions While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding mothers often face the challenge of managing allergic reactions while ensuring the safety and health of their infants. The concern primarily revolves around what medications are safe to take during this time and how these might affect breast milk and, consequently, the baby.
Allergic Reactions and Breastfeeding
When a breastfeeding mother experiences an allergic reaction, it can manifest in various ways, such as hives, itching, or respiratory symptoms. The good news is that most medications used to treat allergies are considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. Antihistamines, in particular, are commonly recommended. According to recent guidelines, cetirizine (Zyrtec) and loratadine (Claritin) are among the safest options for nursing mothers. These medications have been studied extensively, and their use is unlikely to cause adverse effects in infants when taken in standard therapeutic doses .
The Impact of Diet on Allergies
Mothers may also worry about the foods they consume and whether these could trigger allergic reactions in their babies. While human breast milk is generally safe and does not cause allergies, some infants may experience digestive intolerances to certain proteins passed through breast milk. This can lead to symptoms like diarrhea, bloating, or fussiness, affecting the baby’s comfort . If a mother suspects that her diet is causing issues, it may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare provider to identify potential allergens.
Managing Seasonal Allergies
For mothers suffering from seasonal allergies, the symptoms can be particularly bothersome. Common symptoms include a runny nose, itchy eyes, and sneezing. Fortunately, lactation consultants suggest that breastfeeding mothers do not have to endure these symptoms without relief. In addition to antihistamines, other strategies such as nasal saline sprays and maintaining a clean environment can help alleviate discomfort.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can safely manage allergic reactions with appropriate medications like cetirizine and loratadine. While concerns about dietary impacts on infants are valid, most breastfeeding mothers can find effective ways to treat their allergies without compromising their baby’s health. As always, it is advisable for mothers to consult healthcare professionals for personalized advice tailored to their specific situations.

Can I breastfeed while having an allergic reaction?

Yes! With the right medications you can continue to breastfeed. If you have a desire to breastfeed your baby, speak up to the medical team about your feeding goals.

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.

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)

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.

Will Claritin dry up 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.

Can an allergic reaction pass through breast milk?

“Babies are not allergic to breast milk,” clarifies Dr. Bjelac. “Very little food protein is passed through breast milk directly to the baby, so the chances that your baby will have a true allergic reaction to something you eat is very, very small.”

Does Claritin dry up 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.

Can I take Zyrtec while breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding while taking cetirizine:
Most reports show no problems for babies who are exposed to cetirizine through breast milk. Compared to some other antihistamines, cetirizine is thought to have a lower chance of causing drowsiness for the breastfeeding individual and the nursing baby.

Can I take Benadryl allergy while breastfeeding?

Some medications to avoid while breastfeeding include: Antihistamines, like Benadryl, have negative effects on breastfeeding and should be avoided if possible. Medicines like this decrease milk supply if used at high doses and for long periods of time.

How to treat an allergic reaction while breastfeeding?

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.