Piriton while breastfeeding - HELP!

[MoshiMoshi]

I have developed an allergic urticaria with slight swelling and wondered if it was ok to take Piriton for it? I was told it was acceptable in pregnancy of the benefits outweighed the potential risk but do not know what the situation is when breastfeeding. I am itching and swelling as I type so any quick responses gratefully received!

Yes, you can use it....it can cause sleepiness so watch for that possible effect in baby.
Best to use as little as necessary.

I thought as much. Thanks, doulalc! Trying to manage without it as there is enough to contend with without a drowsy baby making it harder.

Moshi - there are other anti histamines that you can take. I don't have time to search just now, but if you try the breastfeeding network drugs info page, you will find what you need. I ended up taking Zirtec, but please don't just take it on my say so, check it out for yourself.

I know that piriton knocked my ds for six when I took it. Luckily he was a bit older (about a year I think) and sleeping too long and missing feeds wasn't an issue, but I can see exactly why it could be a problem for a younger baby.

I posted a question about anti-histamines a few weeks back, and conclusion was that Clarityn etc (Loratadine?) is the usual recommendation, but will search and see if I can post a link

here's the thread

Some useful links in that thread to online guidelines...

I have chronic urticaria for 20+years, I take Zirtek every day during pregnancy and breasfeeding, children seem fine on it!

I developed the same thing a few months back, totally out of the blue. It was horrid. I called NHS direct and explained the situation (it was about 10pm) and they said to get down to the petrol station, which was the only place open at the time, and take whatever antihistamine they had in stock. I can't remember now what it was.
Hope you're feeling better

Thank you for the valuable information. It has now gone thankfully but it is useful to know I can take Clarityn or Zirtek next time. Although would these act immediately? I had thought these drugs took time to act which is why a course of x days taking them is necessary.

I suppose it depends on the individual and the severity - I took a tablet at 10.30ish and the rash was all gone in the morning.