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Are throat lozenges safe while breastfeeding?

Are Throat Lozenges Safe While Breastfeeding?
When it comes to managing a sore throat during breastfeeding, many mothers may wonder about the safety of throat lozenges. The good news is that most throat lozenges are generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers, but there are important considerations to keep in mind.
General Safety of Throat Lozenges
Throat lozenges can provide relief from sore throat symptoms, which can be particularly bothersome for nursing mothers. According to health experts, lozenges that contain local anesthetics, antibacterial agents, or ingredients like benzydamine are typically safe to use while breastfeeding. These ingredients can help numb the throat and reduce discomfort without posing significant risks to the nursing infant.
However, it is crucial to avoid excessive use of these lozenges. Overconsumption may lead to unwanted side effects, such as gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea. Therefore, moderation is key when using throat lozenges.
Consulting Healthcare Providers
While many throat lozenges are safe, it is always advisable for breastfeeding mothers to consult with healthcare providers before starting any new medication, including over-the-counter remedies. This is particularly important if the lozenges contain additional active ingredients that may not be suitable for breastfeeding.
Alternative Remedies
In addition to throat lozenges, there are several other remedies that breastfeeding mothers can consider for soothing a sore throat. Staying hydrated, gargling with salt water, and using honey (if the infant is over one year old) are all effective methods to alleviate discomfort. These alternatives can be beneficial and pose no risk to the breastfeeding relationship.
Conclusion
In summary, throat lozenges can be a safe option for breastfeeding mothers dealing with sore throats, provided they are used appropriately and in moderation. Always consult with a healthcare professional to ensure that any specific product is suitable for your situation. By taking these precautions, mothers can find relief while ensuring the safety and well-being of their infants.

Which tablet is safe for throat infection for breastfeeding mothers?

You may have body aches or need a pain reliever for a sore throat. Acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium are safe options while breast-feeding. If you prefer treating a painful sore throat without these types of medications, you can ease symptoms with lozenges or an over-the-counter sore throat gargle.

Are throat lozenges safe during pregnancy?

Sore Throat
Chloraseptic spray or throat lozenges can be used, if needed. If you do not get better within a few days or have a fever, come in to make sure that you do not have an infection.

Is it okay to have menthol while breastfeeding?

Sore throat sprays, lozenges or cough drops are usually considered safe. Avoid taking large amounts of cough drops containing menthol as this may decrease milk production.

What is safe to breastfeed with a cold sore?

Breastfeeding and cold sores
Cold sores occur commonly around the time of delivery, so it is important to treat cold sores aggressively to prevent transmission to a newborn baby. Aciclovir cream, aciclovir or valaciclovir tablets are all considered safe while breastfeeding.

What can I take for a sore throat while breastfeeding?

Try the following to help the discomfort of a cold or a sore throat when breastfeeding:

  1. Take honey and lemon mixed in hot water, or sip on other warm fluids like natural teas to keep your throat moist.
  2. Gargle some salt water.
  3. If you have a cough, try a cough medicine that is based on glycerine and honey.

Can I take chloraseptic lozenges while breastfeeding?

You can use lozenges, pastilles and throat sprays (e.g. Strepsils®, Ultra-Chloraseptic throat spray®, Difflam®) when you are breastfeeding, to relieve your symptoms. There is very little data on whether these products affect breastfed infants, but they have been used extensively without reports of problems.

Can I take anything for a cold while breastfeeding?

Pain relievers, nonsedating antihistamines, nasal sprays, and over-the-counter cough medicines are generally safe to take while breastfeeding. However, people should avoid ingredients that cause drowsiness, irritability, and reduced milk production.

Can you have Chloraseptic lozenges while pregnant?

Chloraseptic spray or throat lozenges can be used, if needed. If you do not get better within a few days or have a fever, come in to make sure that you do not have an infection.

What can I take for a bad cough while breastfeeding?

Two main OTC cough medications are considered safe to take when breastfeeding: dextromethorphan (Delsym) and guaifenesin (Mucinex, Robitussin). Dextromethorphan helps calm a cough. The amount found in breast milk after taking it is very low, so it should be safe for your baby. Guaifenesin is an expectorant.

Can you take throat lozenge while breastfeeding?

Sore throat
Lozenges or throat gargles containing local anaesthetic, antibacterial agents or benzydamine may be used while breastfeeding. Avoid products containing povidone-iodine (e.g. Betadine®) as it may affect the thyroid function of your baby.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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