Allergy Medicine That Won T Dry Up Milk Supply
For breastfeeding mothers, finding safe and effective allergy medicine can be a challenge. Many over-the-counter medications contain antihistamines that can dry up milk supply, making it difficult for mothers to continue breastfeeding. However, there are several options available that won't affect milk production. In this article, we will explore some of the best allergy medicines for breastfeeding mothers.
What Causes Allergies?
Allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to a harmless substance, such as pollen, pet dander, or certain foods. When the body encounters an allergen, it releases histamine, which causes symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and nasal congestion. Allergies can be seasonal or year-round and can range from mild to severe.
Allergy Medicines That Are Safe for Breastfeeding Mothers
When it comes to allergy medicine, it's important to choose a medication that is safe for breastfeeding mothers. Antihistamines are the most common allergy medication, but many of them can dry up milk supply. However, there are several antihistamines that are considered safe for breastfeeding mothers, including:
- Loratadine (Claritin)
- Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
- Fexofenadine (Allegra)
These medications have been shown to have minimal levels in breast milk and are considered safe for nursing infants. However, it's always important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any medication while breastfeeding.
Allergy Medicines to Avoid
While there are several safe allergy medicines for breastfeeding mothers, there are also medications that should be avoided. These include:
- Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
- Brompheniramine (Dimetapp)
- Chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton)
These medications have been shown to decrease milk supply and can cause drowsiness in nursing infants. If you need to take an allergy medication that is not considered safe for breastfeeding, talk to your healthcare provider about alternative options.
Natural Remedies for Allergies
In addition to allergy medication, there are several natural remedies that can help relieve allergy symptoms. These include:
- Saline nasal spray or rinse
- Steam inhalation
- Neti pot
- Quercetin supplements
- Vitamin C supplements
- Local honey
While natural remedies are generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers, it's still important to consult with a healthcare provider before trying any new treatment.
In Conclusion
As a breastfeeding mother, finding safe and effective allergy medicine can be a challenge. However, there are several options available that won't affect milk production. Antihistamines such as loratadine, cetirizine, and fexofenadine are considered safe for nursing mothers, while medications such as diphenhydramine, brompheniramine, and chlorpheniramine should be avoided. Additionally, there are several natural remedies that can help relieve allergy symptoms. If you're unsure about which allergy medication or treatment is best for you, be sure to consult with a healthcare provider.