Breastfeeding is an essential part of a newborn’s life. Many mothers are concerned about taking medications while nursing, wondering if it’s safe for their baby. Zyrtec is the brand name for Cetirizine, an antihistamine used for allergies. While it is generally considered safe for most people, there are reasons why it is not recommended for breastfeeding mothers.
This blog post aims to inform mothers, fathers, and pregnant women about the reasons why Zyrtec is not recommended while breastfeeding.
Zyrtec can reduce milk production
One of the reasons why breastfeeding mothers should avoid Zyrtec is that the drug can decrease milk production. Cetirizine can inhibit prolactin, a hormone that helps produce milk.
Studies show that some mothers who took Zyrtec experienced a decrease in their milk supply. While this may not affect every mother taking Zyrtec, it’s still a risk that many nursing mothers may not want to take.
Zyrtec can pass to breast milk
Another risk of taking Zyrtec while breastfeeding is that the drug can pass through breast milk. While the amount present is usually low, it can still be enough to have an effect on the baby.
Cetirizine can cause drowsiness and other side effects in infants, affecting their feeding and sleep patterns. Babies who are sensitive to antihistamines may be at risk for developing side effects, so it’s important to be cautious.
Zyrtec has not been thoroughly studied in nursing mothers
Zyrtec has not been extensively studied in nursing mothers, so its safety cannot be guaranteed. While some studies have been conducted, they are limited in scope, and their findings are often inconclusive.
More research is needed to determine how Zyrtec affects breastfeeding mothers and babies properly. In general, it’s best to err on the side of caution when it comes to taking medication while breastfeeding.
There are other antihistamines available
While Zyrtec is not ideal for nursing mothers, there are other antihistamines available that are safe to use while breastfeeding. For instance, loratadine, sold under the brand name Claritin, is a more suitable alternative. Studies show that claritin has a low risk to infant, and the mother’s milk supply is not affected.
Consult with a doctor
The best course of action for nursing mothers is to contact their healthcare provider before taking any medication. The doctor can provide advice on alternative remedies for allergies and informed decisions whether to take Zyrtec or other antihistamines. They can also evaluate the unique circumstances of a mother and determine the best medication to use for their needs.
In conclusion, while Zyrtec is generally safe for most people, it is not recommended while breastfeeding. The drug can reduce milk supply, pass to breast milk, and has not been thoroughly studied in nursing mothers.
There are other antihistamines available that are more suitable for breastfeeding, such as Claritin; it’s still best to consult with a doctor if medication is to be taken.
Breastfeeding should be given priority as it provides healthy benefits to both mother and baby. Mothers should be careful of what they put into their bodies while breastfeeding, and with some research or a consultation with healthcare providers, they can safely manage their allergies while providing the best for their child.
