Is it safe to take Flonase while breastfeeding?

Understanding Flonase and Breastfeeding Safety
Flonase, a nasal spray containing the corticosteroid fluticasone, is commonly used to relieve allergy symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing, and runny nose. For breastfeeding mothers, the question of whether it is safe to use Flonase is crucial, as they seek to manage their symptoms without compromising the health of their infants.
Expert Opinions on Flonase Use
According to expert opinions, the amounts of fluticasone that might be absorbed into the maternal bloodstream and subsequently excreted into breast milk are likely minimal. This suggests that the risk to a breastfed infant is low. The consensus among healthcare professionals is that inhaled, nasal, and oral corticosteroids, including Flonase, are generally considered acceptable for use during breastfeeding .
The National Health Service (NHS) also provides guidance on the use of fluticasone during breastfeeding, indicating that while individual circumstances may vary, the medication is typically deemed safe. This aligns with findings from the Drugs and Lactation Database, which notes that while topical fluticasone has not been extensively studied in breastfeeding contexts, short-term use is unlikely to pose significant risks to infants.
Considerations for Breastfeeding Mothers
While the general consensus supports the safety of Flonase during breastfeeding, it is essential for mothers to consult with their healthcare providers before starting any new medication. Each mother’s health situation is unique, and a healthcare professional can provide personalized advice based on individual health needs and the specific circumstances surrounding the infant’s health.
Moreover, some pediatricians may have varying opinions on the use of Flonase, as indicated by anecdotal reports from mothers who have consulted their doctors. For instance, some pediatricians classify Flonase as an L3 drug on a safety scale for breastfeeding, which suggests that while it is not the first choice, it may still be used if necessary.
Conclusion
In summary, Flonase is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers, with minimal risk to infants based on current expert opinions and available research. However, it is always prudent for mothers to engage in discussions with their healthcare providers to ensure that their treatment choices align with their health needs and those of their babies. This collaborative approach helps ensure the well-being of both mother and child while managing allergy symptoms effectively.

What nasal sprays are safe while breastfeeding?

Corticosteroid nasal sprays containing beclomethasone and budesonide are considered safe to use during breastfeeding. Decongestant nasal sprays containing oxymetazoline, xylometazoline or tramazoline may be used if corticosteroid and antihistamine nasal sprays have not relieved the symptoms.

How do you clear a stuffy nose with breast milk?

Believe it or not, breastmilk can function as a great home remedy when your baby is congested. Use a dropper to insert a couple of drops directly into baby’s nose. Similarly to saline drops, breast milk can help break up mucus, and its antiviral properties may help treat the cold.

Is Flonase safe while breastfeeding?

It’s usually OK to use your fluticasone nasal spray or drops as normal while you’re breastfeeding. It’s not known how much fluticasone gets into breast milk, but it’s likely to be a tiny amount.

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)

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.

Who should not use Flonase?

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using FLONASE Nighttime Allergy Relief if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have difficulty in urination due to enlargement of the prostate gland, have a breathing problem such as emphysema or chronic bronchitis, have glaucoma, or are taking sedatives or tranquilizers.

What is the best decongestant to stop breastfeeding?

Take Sudafed.
Pseudoephedrine, or Sudafed, is a common over-the-counter decongestant. Research shows the Sudafed causes a noticeable decrease in milk production. Like birth control, Sudafed should only be used to suppress lactation under the supervision of a doctor.

Is it safe to use Flonase while pregnant?

Safe Medications During Pregnancy
These OTC meds are safe when taken as directed: Colds and flu: Robitussin, Vicks, saline nasal drops and spray, Flonase, Actifed, Nasocort, Sudafed (not in first trimester), Tylenol and Tylenol cold. Do not use sustained action forms or multiple symptom forms of these drugs.

What is safe to take for nasal congestion while breastfeeding?

It’s recommended to only use oral decongestants on a limited basis. You should avoid using oral decongestants during your first trimester, while breastfeeding or if you have high blood pressure. Nasal saline sprays are considered a safe alternative for treating nasal congestion while pregnant or breastfeeding.

Why is Zyrtec not recommended while 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.