Home » Pregnancy and childbirth

What do you ask: can you take allergy medicine while breastfeeding?

Contents

Although it is generally accepted that the majority of allergy medications are deemed suitable for consumption during the period of breastfeeding, it is imperative to seek counsel from a healthcare expert to ascertain the appropriateness of the particular medication for both the mother and her infant.

For those who are interested in more details

Although there exists a widespread consensus on the general safety of administering allergy medications during breastfeeding, it is imperative to seek counsel from a healthcare expert for tailored guidance. Given that each medication may yield distinct repercussions for both the lactating mother and her nursing progeny, it is of utmost importance to thoroughly contemplate one’s unique circumstances prior to arriving at a definitive resolution.

As per the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), numerous allergy medications have been found to exhibit minimal levels in breast milk and consequently pose minimal harm to the infant. Nevertheless, it is advised to administer the lowest possible dosage for the briefest period, as certain medications may potentially impede milk production or induce drowsiness in newborns. Prior to commencing any allergy medication during breastfeeding, it is imperative to engage in a thorough discussion regarding the associated advantages and risks with a healthcare professional.

The renowned LactMed database serves as a valuable resource, offering comprehensive insights into the safety of medications while breastfeeding. With its extensive collection of evidence-based research and expert recommendations, LactMed equips healthcare professionals with the knowledge necessary for making well-informed choices. Notably, LactMed attests that the majority of antihistamines and nasal steroids, commonly employed for managing allergies, have undergone thorough examination and are widely acknowledged as compatible with breastfeeding.

Curiously, a study disseminated in the esteemed Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology posited that the introduction of allergens via breast milk may, intriguingly, confer a measure of safeguard against the emergence of allergies in newborns. Nevertheless, additional inquiry is indispensable to comprehensively grasp the intricate workings underlying this latent advantage.

To highlight important considerations and potential side effects, here is a table comparing different types of allergy medications commonly used while breastfeeding:

Allergy Medication Safety During Breastfeeding Potential Side Effects
Antihistamines Generally considered safe Drowsiness, decreased milk supply
Nasal Steroids Generally considered safe Minimal systemic absorption, localized side effects
Decongestants Caution advised Decreased milk supply, irritability in infants
Eye Drops Generally considered safe Minimal systemic absorption, localized side effects
Mast Cell Stabilizers Generally considered safe No known significant side effects
IT IS INTERESTING:  Quick response to — how long is baby oatmeal good for once mixed with breastmilk?

In the words of renowned pediatrician Dr. William Sears, “Breastfeeding is the best allergy prevention method available… If a nursing mother has allergies, the antibodies produced against the allergens in her environment will pass through her milk and help reduce the baby’s risk of developing allergies.”

Remember, every individual’s circumstances may vary, and it is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide specific and personalized advice.

In this video, the speaker addresses concerns about the impact of approved allergy medications on breastfeeding and milk supply. They clarify that certain medications, such as decongestants, may decrease milk supply, but if approved by a doctor during pregnancy, they should not have the same effect after delivery. The speaker emphasizes the importance of consulting with a healthcare professional to weigh the risks and benefits of taking any medications while pregnant or breastfeeding. They also stress the need to be aware of which medications are safe for breastfeeding versus pregnancy, as medications can pass through breast milk. The speaker invites viewers to ask further questions and recommend their page to others.

Identified other solutions on the web

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.

Breastfeeding stimulates your natural tranquilizing hormones, which may, in turn, reduce the severity of your allergies. The prescription and over-the-counter allergy medications commonly used to treat allergy symptoms are safe to take while breastfeeding.

The two most common questions mothers ask are: Which allergy medications are considered safe to take, and, will a certain medication decrease my milk supply? Most allergy medication are considered safe for use while breastfeeding and will not impact your milk supply.

Second-generation allergy medications and antihistamines are also safe to take while breastfeeding, including: Cetirizine (Zyrtec®). Fexofenadine (Allegra®) Fluticasone (Flonase®). Loratadine (Claritin®).

Pain relievers and fever reducers that are safe to take while breastfeeding include: Tylenol (acetaminophen) Advil, Motrin (ibuprofen) Allergy medicines and decongestants generally reduce symptoms such as itchy eyes, sneezing, and a runny nose.

Of the preparations available for treatment of allergic symptoms, corticosteroid nasal sprays (e.g., Flonase, Nasacort, etc.) and cromolyn sodium nasal spray (a mast cell stabilizer, e.g., Nasalcrom) are considered to be, by far, some of the most effective and safest to use in breastfeeding moms.

Loratidine (Claritin, Alavert), desloratadine (Clarinex), cetirizine (Zyrtec) and fexofenadine (Allegra) are "nondrowsy" antihistamines that are considered safe for breastfeeding moms and their babies. They’re less likely than "first-generation" (earlier) antihistamines to cause sleepiness in your baby (and you).

A 2013 clinical report by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), “ The Transfer of Drugs and Therapeutics into Human Breast Milk: An Update on Selected Topics, ” indicates that most medications and immunizations are safe to use during lactation.

Interesting on the topic

Wondering what, Breastfeeding mothers can eat pretty much whatever they like although including a balance of healthy fats is recommended because the fats in breast milk are the one component most affected by diet. A vegan mother will need to ensure she is getting enough vitamin B12 otherwise her baby might fail to thrive or have developmental problems.
And did you know: Breastfeeding is a highly emotive subject in the UK because so many families have not breastfed, or have experienced the trauma of trying very hard to breastfeed and not succeeding. The pain felt by so many parents at any implication that they have not done the best for their child can close down conversation.
Thematic fact: Newborns typically lose between 5 and 10 percent of their body weight, depending on delivery method, in the days after birth. They need to spend the first few weeks gaining it back. Not eating enough in the first few days can also lead to complications linked to jaundice and low blood sugar. Not feeding often enough can slow down your milk production if you’re breastfeeding.

Also, people ask

What allergy meds can I take 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).
Does allergy medicine affect breast milk supply?
As an answer to this: Dr. Romm does have a word of warning when it comes to your milk supply: Any allergy or cold medication that contains pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) is a big no-no for a breastfeeding mom. "Studies have shown that even one dose can decrease milk supply substantially," Dr. Romm explains.
Why can't you take Zyrtec while breastfeeding?
While it is safe to take Zyrtec while breastfeeding, it is important to know that some medication may pass through breastmilk. Studies have shown that a small amount may be present in milk, but not enough to harm the baby. 3 In fact, Zyrtec may be preferred over other antihistamines like Claritin or Benadryl.
Will Claritin dry up breast milk?
In reply to that: Antihistamines, which are meant to fight allergies, are safe for a nursing baby, but other ingredients may be best avoided. Claritin-D contains the antihistamine loratadine as well as a decongestant. “Decongestants can dry up your breast milk so it is best to avoid these,” says Silverman.
What are the effects of taking allergy medicine while breastfeeding?
The reply will be: While a variety of allergy medications are considered safe for use during breastfeeding, most of these do pass into your breast milk, and some can interfere with feedings by reducing your milk supply. To ensure the safest option for you and your infant, always speak with your health care provider before using any allergy treatment.
Are there any medications that are safe to take while breastfeeding?
If taken in moderation, medications won’t affect your child while breastfeeding. Medicines like pain relievers and antibiotics are safe examples. Certain antihistamines and decongestants are safe for breastfeeding mothers. However, this depends on what your physician will prescribe.
What are the symptoms of allergies that can be treated while breastfeeding?
Eye irritation and nasal drainage are two of the most common allergy symptoms. Both conditions result from an allergic reaction, specifically through the release of histamines. When you experience these symptoms, you should consider taking antihistamines, which are deemed safe for your baby and your breast milk supply.
What are the effects of taking allergy medicine while breastfeeding?
While a variety of allergy medications are considered safe for use during breastfeeding, most of these do pass into your breast milk, and some can interfere with feedings by reducing your milk supply. To ensure the safest option for you and your infant, always speak with your health care provider before using any allergy treatment.
Are there any medications that are safe to take while breastfeeding?
As a response to this: If taken in moderation, medications won’t affect your child while breastfeeding. Medicines like pain relievers and antibiotics are safe examples. Certain antihistamines and decongestants are safe for breastfeeding mothers. However, this depends on what your physician will prescribe.
What are the symptoms of allergies that can be treated while breastfeeding?
The reply will be: Eye irritation and nasal drainage are two of the most common allergy symptoms. Both conditions result from an allergic reaction, specifically through the release of histamines. When you experience these symptoms, you should consider taking antihistamines, which are deemed safe for your baby and your breast milk supply.

Rate article
Healthy motherhood

ATTENTION TO RIGHT HOLDERS! All materials posted on the site are strictly for informational and educational purposes! If you believe that the posting of any material infringes your copyright, be sure to contact us through the contact form and your material will be removed!

© 2023 Healthy motherhood