What allergy pill can I take while breastfeeding?

Allergy Medications Safe for Breastfeeding
When it comes to managing allergies while breastfeeding, it’s crucial to choose medications that are safe for both the mother and the nursing infant. Fortunately, several allergy pills are considered compatible with breastfeeding, allowing mothers to find relief without compromising their baby’s health.
Recommended Antihistamines
The most commonly recommended antihistamines for breastfeeding mothers are cetirizine (Zyrtec) and loratadine (Claritin). These second-generation antihistamines are favored because they are less likely to cause sedation and have been studied for their safety during lactation. Research indicates that the amount of loratadine that passes into breast milk is minimal, making it unlikely to cause adverse effects in nursing infants.
Other antihistamines that are generally regarded as safe include fexofenadine (Allegra) and desloratadine (Clarinex). These medications also have a low risk of sedation and are considered compatible with breastfeeding.
What to Avoid
While many allergy medications are safe, breastfeeding mothers should avoid first-generation antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and chlorpheniramine. These older medications are more likely to cause sedation and other side effects, which can affect both the mother and the infant. Additionally, decongestants like pseudoephedrine should be used with caution, as they may reduce milk supply in some women.
Alternative Options
For those who prefer non-medication approaches, there are also non-sedating options available, such as nasal sprays that block allergens from entering the nasal passages. Products like Prevalin allergy® and NasalGuard Allergie Block® do not pass into breast milk and can be effective in managing allergy symptoms without the risks associated with oral medications.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can safely use cetirizine and loratadine to manage allergy symptoms, while avoiding first-generation antihistamines and certain decongestants. As always, it’s advisable for mothers to consult with their healthcare provider before starting any new medication to ensure it aligns with their specific health needs and circumstances.

Which antihistamine is safe in breastfeeding?

Loratadine or cetirizine are usually OK to take while breastfeeding. Always check the leaflet that comes with your medicine to see if it’s safe for you before taking it or giving it to your child.

What is the safest allergy medicine to take while pregnant?

Safe OTC medications:

• Diphenhydramine (Benadryl®)
• Loratidine (Claritin®)
• Cetirizine (Zyrtec®)
• Nasal steroid (Flonase®)
• Guaifenesin (plain Mucinex®)
• Mentholated cream (Vicks Vapor Rub®)
• Afrin® may be used, but only for a short time (three days or less)

Can you take Claritin or zyrtec while breastfeeding?

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. Antihistamines such as Zatador are available as eye drops, which help itchy, watery eyes.

What can I take for seasonal allergies 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 is the most common allergy in a breastfed baby?

Food allergies in babies can cause mild to severe skin reactions, respiratory problems, and intestinal symptoms. Breastfed babies typically develop allergies to the foods that their mother eats. The most common food allergies in babies and children include milk and dairy products, peanuts, and shellfish.

What allergy medicine can breastfeeding moms take?

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)

Will Claritin dry up my 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.

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.

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.

What can I take for an allergy 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).