Can a nursing mother take Tylenol PM?

Can a Nursing Mother Take Tylenol PM?
For nursing mothers seeking relief from pain or insomnia, the question of whether to take Tylenol PM often arises. This medication combines acetaminophen, a widely used pain reliever, with diphenhydramine, an antihistamine that acts as a sleep aid. Understanding the safety and implications of using Tylenol PM while breastfeeding is crucial for both the mother and her infant.
Acetaminophen: A Safe Choice
Acetaminophen, the primary ingredient in Tylenol PM, is generally considered safe for nursing mothers. It is recommended for pain relief and fever reduction during breastfeeding. Studies indicate that acetaminophen does not significantly affect breastfeeding initiation or duration, making it a preferred choice for postpartum pain management. The American Family Physician lists acetaminophen as a recommended agent for breastfeeding mothers, reinforcing its safety profile.
The Role of Diphenhydramine
The second component of Tylenol PM, diphenhydramine, is an antihistamine that can cause drowsiness. While it is effective for promoting sleep, its use in nursing mothers requires careful consideration. Diphenhydramine can pass into breast milk, and although the amounts are typically low, there is a potential for the infant to experience sedation or other side effects. Therefore, while occasional use may be acceptable, it is advisable for mothers to monitor their infants for any unusual behavior or excessive sleepiness.
Recommendations for Use
Before taking Tylenol PM, nursing mothers should consult with their healthcare provider. This is particularly important if they have any underlying health conditions or are taking other medications that could interact with diphenhydramine. Additionally, timing the dose can be beneficial; taking the medication right after breastfeeding may help minimize the infant’s exposure to the drug during the next feeding.
Conclusion
In summary, while Tylenol PM can be used by nursing mothers, it is essential to approach its use with caution. Acetaminophen is safe and effective for pain relief, but the sedative effects of diphenhydramine warrant careful consideration. Consulting a healthcare professional is the best course of action to ensure both the mother’s and the infant’s well-being.

Who Cannot take Tylenol PM?

Tylenol PM is not for use in anyone younger than 12 years old. Do not use the medicine to make a child sleepy. Death can occur from the misuse of antihistamines in very young children. Do not use this medicine for longer than 2 weeks to treat sleep problems, or longer than 7 days to treat cold or allergy symptoms.

Which drug is usually avoided with breastfeeding?

Table. Examples of drugs contraindicated in breastfeeding.

Drug	Comment
Iodine	High doses (>150 micrograms daily) lead to risk of infant hypothyroidism
Lithium	Breastfeeding only feasible with rigorous monitoring
Radiopharmaceuticals	Contact obstetric information service
Retinoids (oral)	Potential for serious adverse effects

What sleep aid is safe while breastfeeding?

However, the ‘z- drugs’ (zolpidem and zopiclone) are preferred for the short-term management of insomnia during breastfeeding, as they have shorter half-lives than the benzodiazepines and appear to pass into breast milk in small amounts. Melatonin can also be used in breastfeeding with caution.

Is Tylenol PM safe to take for sleep?

The antihistamine in this product may cause drowsiness, so it can also be used as a nighttime sleep aid. Antihistamines can also be used to help relieve allergy or cold symptoms such as watery eyes, itchy eyes/nose/throat, runny nose, and sneezing.

How long after taking Tylenol can I breastfeed?

Drug Levels
Peak milk levels of 10 to 15 mg/L occurred between 1 and 2 hours after the dose in all patients. Acetaminophen was undetectable (<0.5 mg/L) in all mothers 12 hours after the dose.

Can I take Tylenol PM every night while pregnant?

Tylenol PM is a combination of two drugs: Acetaminophen and diphenhydramine (an antihistamine found in Benadryl). Both drugs have generally been thought to be safe during pregnancy, Roshan says, but it’s important to make sure usage is occasional, not consistent.

Can I take Benadryl for sleep while breastfeeding?

Taking Benadryl occasionally during breastfeeding is safe. However, taking Benadryl regularly or in large doses may cause side effects in a child who is breastfed. It may also reduce your milk supply. Antihistamines that cause less sleepiness are usually preferred over oral Benadryl while breastfeeding.

Is it safe to take Tylenol PM while breastfeeding?

Acetaminophen and diphenhydramine are generally considered safe to take while breastfeeding. But it’s possible that diphenhydramine can cause sleepiness or irritability in your baby if you breastfeed after taking Tylenol PM Extra Strength (acetaminophen / diphenhydramine).

Is Tylenol PM safe during pregnancy?

Yes. Tylenol PM contains 500 mg acetaminophen plus 25 mg of diphenhydramine (Benadryl). Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine that also functions as a short-term sleep aid, and it’s safe to take during pregnancy. It’s generally considered safe to take 2 caplets at bedtime during pregnancy.

Can I take Tylenol Cold Night while breastfeeding?

Many medicines are safe to use when you breastfeed. These include: Pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin). Some cold and influenza (flu) medicines.