What is the safest antihistamine while breastfeeding?

Understanding Antihistamines and Breastfeeding Safety
When it comes to managing allergies while breastfeeding, the safety of antihistamines is a primary concern for nursing mothers. The good news is that there are options available that are considered safe for both mothers and their infants.
Preferred Choices: Non-Sedating Antihistamines
Non-sedating antihistamines are generally the preferred choice for breastfeeding mothers. These medications, which include popular options like cetirizine and loratadine, are less likely to cause drowsiness and have minimal effects on breast milk production. Research indicates that these antihistamines do not significantly transfer into breast milk, making them a safer alternative for managing allergy symptoms without compromising the health of the nursing infant.
The Role of Sedating Antihistamines
While first-generation sedating antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine and chlorpheniramine, have been traditionally used, their safety profile during breastfeeding is more complex. Although some studies suggest that these older medications can be safe, they may cause sedation in both the mother and the baby, which raises concerns about their use. Therefore, while they are not strictly contraindicated, they are generally not recommended unless absolutely necessary.
Factors Influencing Medication Safety
The amount of medication that enters breast milk and its potential effects on the baby can vary based on several factors, including the specific antihistamine used, the dosage, and the timing of administration relative to breastfeeding. It is crucial for mothers to consult healthcare professionals to determine the best course of action tailored to their individual circumstances.
Conclusion
In summary, non-sedating antihistamines are the safest choice for breastfeeding mothers looking to alleviate allergy symptoms. They provide effective relief without the risks associated with sedation, making them a reliable option for nursing mothers. As always, it is advisable for mothers to discuss any medication use with their healthcare provider to ensure the safety and well-being of both themselves and their infants.

What antihistamines can breastfeeding moms take?

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 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.

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 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.

Does Zyrtec decrease milk supply?

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

Why is Benadryl not safe for 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.

Will Benadryl dry up 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 Zyrtec dry up breast milk?

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

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.

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.