Many breastfeeding mothers experience allergies after birth. This may be caused by a variety of factors such as seasonal changes or hormonal fluctuations. These allergies can cause sleep disruptions, emotional concerns, and breastfeeding challenges as well. In order to alleviate these allergies, many breastfeeding mothers may turn to Zyrtec as a treatment, but they are concerned about the safety of taking this medication while nursing. So in this post, we will talk about the relationship between breastfeeding and Zyrtec.
Are There Any Risks Related to Breastfeeding and Zyrtec?
Zyrtec is a popular antihistamine that is commonly used to alleviate symptoms of allergies such as sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose. The active ingredient in Zyrtec is cetirizine and it is mostly considered safe for breastfeeding mothers to consume.
According to WebMD, Zyrtec is considered relatively safe for use when breastfeeding. A 2020 study by The Journal of Human Lactation also confirms that the transfer of cetirizine into human milk is unlikely to pose a significant risk to a breastfeeding infant. Verywell Family also confirms that Zyrtec is safe for breastfeeding mothers to use. The drug may be excreted into breast milk in minimal amounts but this does not cause harm to the infant, although it may lead to a mild sense of drowsiness. However, these cases are rare and usually not severe.
Recommendations for Breastfeeding Mothers
- Consult Your Healthcare Provider: Before taking Zyrtec or any medication, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider. Your health provider can consider your medical history, the health of the baby, and any potential risks or benefits before providing you with a more personalized recommendation.
- Monitor the Baby: If you take Zyrtec before breastfeeding then you should take some time to observe your baby for any adverse reactions. If your baby shows any signs of discomfort or unusual behavior, then we recommend that you consult with a healthcare provider and consider alternative medications.
- Consider Timing: Some mothers prefer to take Zyrtec immediately after breastfeeding or before the baby’s longest sleep period. This can be a way to minimize the baby’s exposure to the medication through breast milk.
Final Thoughts
Zyrtec is generally considered safe for use during breastfeeding, with minimal risk to the infant or mother. However, breastfeeding mothers should always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication to ensure it is appropriate for their specific situation. By monitoring your baby for any side effects and discussing any concerns with your healthcare provider, you can ensure the safety and well-being of both you and your child.
We hope you found this article to be informative. Please don’t forget to share. You may also be interested in a previous article on Breastfeeding and Retinol.
Sources
https://www.verywellfamily.com/can-breastfeeding-women-take-zyrtec-5205119#
https://www.webmd.com/baby/cold-and-allergy-meds-safe-while-breastfeeding
