Will Zyrtec dry up milk supply?

Understanding Zyrtec and Its Impact on Milk Supply
When it comes to managing allergies while breastfeeding, many mothers wonder about the safety and effects of medications like Zyrtec, which contains the active ingredient cetirizine. The concern primarily revolves around whether such antihistamines can affect milk supply.
Antihistamines and Milk Supply
Research indicates that certain antihistamines, including Zyrtec, can potentially reduce milk supply. This is particularly true for larger doses or prolonged use. According to the Drugs and Lactation Database, while small, occasional doses of cetirizine are generally considered acceptable during breastfeeding, higher doses or extended use may lead to decreased milk production, especially when combined with other medications like pseudoephedrine, which is a common decongestant.
Moreover, a comprehensive overview of medications suggests that antihistamines, including Zyrtec, can indeed decrease milk supply. This is a significant consideration for breastfeeding mothers who rely on these medications for allergy relief.
Individual Responses and Recommendations
It’s important to note that individual responses to medications can vary. Some mothers may find that their milk supply remains stable while using Zyrtec, while others may experience a noticeable decrease. This variability underscores the need for mothers to monitor their own experiences closely when taking any medication during breastfeeding.
Healthcare professionals often recommend that breastfeeding mothers consult with their doctors before starting any new medication, including Zyrtec. This ensures that they can weigh the benefits of allergy relief against the potential risks to milk supply.
Conclusion
In summary, while Zyrtec can be effective for managing allergy symptoms, it does carry the risk of reducing milk supply, particularly with higher doses or prolonged use. Mothers should approach its use cautiously and seek medical advice to find the best balance between managing allergies and maintaining a healthy milk supply for their infants.

How to tell if breast milk is drying up?

The following are signs your baby isn’t getting enough milk:

1. Poor weight gain. It’s normal for newborns to lose 5% to 7% of their birth weight in the first few days – some lose up to 10%.
2. Insufficient, wet or dirty nappies.
3. Dehydration.

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)

What antihistamines will dry up breast milk?

First generation antihistamines, like Benadryl (diphenhydramine), have effects beyond relieving allergy symptoms. They may decrease supply if used at high doses and for long periods of time. It may be best to avoid these antihistamines if possible.

What is the safest antihistamine 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)

How to dry up breast milk without getting mastitis?

Phasing out breastfeeding gently will give you both time to get used to the idea. Stopping gradually will also help prevent problems like overfull, hard (engorged) breasts and mastitis. You’ll probably find it easiest to drop 1 feed at a time.

What allergy medicine can you take while breastfeeding?

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.

What medication dries up milk supply?

Women sometimes to ask for a tablet to stop their milk supply. This medication works best if it is taken within 12- 24 hours of your baby’s birth. The medication is not routinely prescribed in hospital due to the many side effects and health risks with this medication. The medication is called cabergoline (Dostinex®).

Will Zyrtec affect breast milk production?

Antihistamines, used at normal therapeutic doses are unlikely to affect breast milk production, especially where lactation is established, i.e. after 6-8 weeks postpartum. One small study, reported a possible increase in the time until milk secretion postpartum when promethazine (dose unknown) was given during labour.

What causes breast milk to dry up?

Possible causes of low supply
Nearly all babies need to feed at least 8 to 12 times in 24 hours. Your baby does not feed effectively at the breast. You have started using formula milk as well as breastfeeding. You have had breast surgery that is affecting your milk supply.

What vitamin dries up breast milk?

PIP: Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine hydrochloride) is contained in most prenatal and multivitamin preparations. Available research states that pyridoxine blocks lactation and inhibits the secretion of breast milk in nursing mothers by suppressing the normally elevated prolactin hormone levels encountered during puerperium.