Will allergy medicine reduce milk supply?

Understanding the Impact of Allergy Medicine on Milk Supply
For new mothers navigating the challenges of breastfeeding, the question of whether allergy medications can affect milk supply is a significant concern. The relationship between certain medications and lactation is complex, and understanding this can help mothers make informed choices about their health and their baby’s nutrition.
Medications and Milk Supply
Certain allergy medications, particularly those that have drying effects, can indeed reduce breast milk supply. This is primarily due to their mechanism of action, which often involves antihistamines that can lead to decreased secretions in the body, including milk production. As noted, “some medications may affect your milk supply,” highlighting the importance of being cautious when considering allergy treatments while breastfeeding.
Types of Allergy Medications
Antihistamines are the most commonly discussed medications in this context. While they are effective for managing allergy symptoms, they can also lead to a reduction in milk production. This is particularly relevant for mothers who rely on these medications during allergy seasons or when experiencing allergic reactions. It’s crucial for breastfeeding mothers to consult healthcare providers about the safest options available that minimize the risk of impacting milk supply.
Alternative Solutions
For mothers concerned about the effects of allergy medications on breastfeeding, there are alternative approaches to managing allergies. Non-drowsy antihistamines or other allergy treatments that do not have drying effects may be recommended. Additionally, lifestyle changes, such as avoiding allergens and using saline nasal sprays, can help alleviate symptoms without compromising milk supply.
Conclusion
In summary, while allergy medications can be necessary for managing symptoms, they may also pose a risk to breast milk supply, particularly those with drying effects. New mothers should engage in open discussions with their healthcare providers to explore safe treatment options that support both their health and their breastfeeding goals. By being informed and proactive, mothers can navigate the challenges of allergies while ensuring their milk supply remains healthy.

What pill dries up milk?

Lactation suppression
To prevent your body naturally producing breast milk after the birth of your baby, we can prescribe you a medication called Cabergoline.

Does allergy medicine affect breast milk?

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 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)

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 medications should be avoided while breastfeeding?

Common medicines that are not recommended when you’re breastfeeding include:

• codeine phosphate.
• decongestants that come as tablets, liquids or powders that you swallow.
• some nasal decongestants that come as nose sprays or drops – check with a GP or pharmacist before using them.
• aspirin for pain relief.

What medications drop milk supply?

Certain medications can suppress lactation (reduce milk production) in breastfeeding moms. Some of the medications that can decrease milk supply include: Antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and cetirizine (Zyrtec). Decongestants like pseudoephedrine (Sudafed, Claritin-D, Zyrtec-D, and Allegra-D).

What decreases milk supply?

Other things that can also lead you to have low milk production include:

• Smoking or drinking.
• Some medicines and herbs.
• Hormonal forms of birth control. This is especially true for birth control that has estrogen.
• Nursing or pumping less often.
• Getting sick.
• Feeling stressed.
• Getting pregnant again.

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.

Does Zyrtec mess with 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 fastest way to dry up breast milk?

Drink one mug of sage or peppermint tea 3 or 4 times per day, for 2 to 3 days. Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) can help dry up your milk, but ask your doctor before using this medicine, and do not take it if you have kidney or thyroid problems, or if you have glaucoma. Take Benadryl as directed on the package.