Cetirizine | Apotex Corp. while Breastfeeding

What is Cetirizine | Apotex Corp. used for?

I am breastfeeding mother and I am using Cetirizine | Apotex Corp.. Can it have any bad effect on my kid? Shall I search for better alternative?

Cetirizine hydrochloride while Breastfeeding

CAS Number: 83881-52-1

Second generation antihistamine, drug derived from piperazine and metabolite of hydroxyzine, with a minimal sedative effect and low toxicity even at higher dose. No short or long-term side effects were found in an infant with a mother who was treated in the first month post delivery for pemphigus (Westermann 2012). Because of a high plasma protein binding capacity, excretion into breast milk seems to be unlikely. The British Society for Allergy and Clinical Immunology and other experts rates it as compatible with breastfeeding (Butler 2014, Powell 2007).

Cetirizine hydrochloride while Breastfeeding

CAS Number: 83881-51-0

Small occasional doses of cetirizine are probably acceptable during breastfeeding. Larger doses or more prolonged use may cause drowsiness and other effects in the infant or decrease the milk supply, particularly in combination with a sympathomimetic such as pseudoephedrine or before lactation is well established. The British Society for Allergy and Clinical Immunology recommends cetirizine at its lowest dose as a preferred choice if an antihistamine is required during breastfeeding.[1] Cetirizine has been used successfully in cases of persistent pain of the breast during breastfeeding.[2] Ophthalmic use of cetirizine by the mother should pose little risk to the breastfed infant. To substantially diminish the amount of drug that reaches the breastmilk after using eye drops, place pressure over the tear duct by the corner of the eye for 1 minute or more, then remove the excess solution with an absorbent tissue.

What if I already have used Cetirizine | Apotex Corp.?

I am nursing mother and my doctor has suggested me to use Cetirizine | Apotex Corp., is it safe?

If I am using Cetirizine | Apotex Corp., will my baby need extra monitoring?

Who can I talk to if I have questions about usage of Cetirizine | Apotex Corp. in breastfeeding?