Why cant you take Zyrtec while breastfeeding?

Understanding Zyrtec and Breastfeeding
Zyrtec, known generically as cetirizine, is a popular antihistamine used to alleviate allergy symptoms. While many new mothers may wonder about the safety of taking Zyrtec while breastfeeding, the answer is nuanced and requires careful consideration of dosage and duration of use.
Safety Profile of Zyrtec During Breastfeeding
Research indicates that small, occasional doses of Zyrtec are generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. Studies have shown that cetirizine does pass into breast milk, but the levels are typically low enough that they are unlikely to cause significant adverse effects in nursing infants. In fact, cetirizine is often recommended as one of the safer antihistamines for breastfeeding mothers due to its relatively mild side effects compared to other medications in its class.
However, caution is advised when it comes to larger doses or prolonged use. Such usage may lead to potential side effects in infants, including drowsiness, and could also impact the mother’s milk supply . This is particularly true if Zyrtec is taken in combination with other medications, such as sympathomimetics like pseudoephedrine, which can exacerbate these effects.
Recommendations for Breastfeeding Mothers
For mothers who are considering taking Zyrtec, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on individual health circumstances and the specific allergy symptoms being treated. Monitoring the infant for any unusual behavior or drowsiness is also recommended if the mother chooses to take cetirizine.
In summary, while Zyrtec can be taken during breastfeeding, it is essential to do so with caution. Occasional use is generally safe, but larger doses or extended use should be avoided to prevent potential risks to both the mother and the infant. Always prioritize open communication with healthcare professionals to ensure the best outcomes for both mother and child.

Why can’t you take antihistamines while breastfeeding?

There are relatively fewer data on the nonsedating second-generation antihistamines; however, published studies are reassuring. All antihistamines are considered safe to use during breastfeeding, as minimal amounts are excreted in the breast milk and would not cause any adverse effects on a breastfeeding infant.

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 are the side effects of Zyrtec for babies?

Several Zyrtec products, including chewable tablets, syrup, and Dissolve Tabs, are formulated for children. Common side effects like drowsiness and dry mouth are generally mild, but an overdose can lead to more severe symptoms such as irritability, restlessness, and extreme drowsiness.

What happens if you take Zyrtec while breastfeeding?

Cetirizine gets into breast milk in small amounts. 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.

What happens if I breastfeed after taking Benadryl?

You should avoid taking Benadryl while breastfeeding as it can cause drowsiness and lack of coordination to the parent, which could pose a danger to the baby. Moreover, as with all medications, Benadryl can get into breast milk and be passed along to the baby and cause colic-type symptoms, irritability, and drowsiness.

Is Claritin better than Zyrtec 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).

What organ does Zyrtec affect?

Introduction. Cetirizine and its enantiomer levocetirizine are second generation antihistamines that are used for the treatment of allergic rhinitis, angioedema and chronic urticaria. Cetirizine and levocetirizine have been linked to rare, isolated instances of clinically apparent acute liver injury.

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)

Which allergy meds decrease milk supply?

Medications that affect breast milk production

• Zyrtec-D (cetirizine/pseudoephedrine)
• Claritin-D (loratadine/pseudoephedrine)
• Allegra-D (fexofenadine/pseudoephedrine)
• Aleve-D Sinus and Cold (naproxen/pseudoephedrine)

Is it safe to take Zyrtec while pregnant?

While Zyrtec is considered safe to take during all three trimesters, as with all medications, you should only take it if necessary. And it’s always best to discuss your unique situation with your healthcare provider first before you start taking a new medication.