Which antihistamine is safe for breastfeeding?

Understanding Antihistamines and Breastfeeding Safety
When it comes to managing allergies while breastfeeding, the choice of antihistamine is crucial for the health of both mother and child. Many mothers are understandably concerned about the medications they take during this sensitive period, and the good news is that there are safe options available.
Preferred Antihistamines for Breastfeeding Mothers
Non-sedating antihistamines are generally recommended for breastfeeding mothers. These medications, such as cetirizine and loratadine, are favored because they have been shown to have minimal effects on breast milk and are less likely to cause sedation in both the mother and the infant. The British Society for Allergy and Clinical Immunology supports the use of these non-sedating options, citing extensive experience with their safety during breastfeeding.
In contrast, sedating antihistamines, which include older first-generation medications like diphenhydramine, can pose risks. While they are considered safe for use during pregnancy, their sedative effects can be concerning when breastfeeding, as they may lead to increased drowsiness in infants. Therefore, while some mothers may find relief with these older medications, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before use.
The Importance of Consultation
It’s essential for breastfeeding mothers to discuss any medication, including antihistamines, with their healthcare provider. This ensures that the chosen treatment aligns with their specific health needs while also safeguarding the well-being of their baby. The amount of medication that enters breast milk can vary, and understanding these dynamics is key to making informed decisions.
Conclusion
In summary, cetirizine and loratadine are the preferred antihistamines for breastfeeding mothers due to their safety profile and minimal impact on breast milk. While sedating antihistamines may be used cautiously, they are generally not recommended without professional guidance. As always, open communication with healthcare providers is vital to ensure both mother and baby remain healthy and safe during the breastfeeding journey.

Can 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 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.

What is the safest antihistamine for babies?

Oral antihistamines like Claritin (loratadine), Zyrtec (cetirizine), and Allegra (fexofenadine) are available OTC in kid-friendly formulations. These meds help with sneezing, itching, eye irritation, and runny nose. In addition, Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is an OTC antihistamine that is safe for children to take.

Does 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 antihistamines does mother to baby use?

Some newer oral antihistamines that are less likely to cause drowsiness include Claritin and Zyrtec, containing the active ingredients Loratadine and Cetirizine respectively. Loratadine passes to breast milk in low levels and for that reason, it is a favorable choice for many breastfeeding mothers.

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.

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.

What is the most safe antihistamine while breastfeeding?

Cold and allergy meds that are safe while breastfeeding include: 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.

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.

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.