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Can breastfeeding moms take Advil cold and sinus?

Can Breastfeeding Moms Take Advil Cold and Sinus?
For breastfeeding mothers grappling with cold symptoms, the question of whether to take Advil Cold and Sinus is a common concern. This over-the-counter medication, which combines ibuprofen with a decongestant, offers relief from pain and sinus pressure. However, its safety during breastfeeding requires careful consideration.
General Safety of Cold Medications
Most over-the-counter cold remedies are generally deemed safe for breastfeeding mothers, but caution is advised with specific medications. According to health experts, while ibuprofen (the active ingredient in Advil) is typically safe, the combination with other ingredients in cold medications can complicate matters.
Specific Concerns with Advil Cold and Sinus
Advil Cold and Sinus contains ibuprofen, which is known to be compatible with breastfeeding. Studies indicate that ibuprofen is present in very low levels in breast milk, making it unlikely to cause adverse effects in infants. However, the decongestant component, often pseudoephedrine, can pose risks. Some healthcare professionals warn that this ingredient may lead to decreased milk supply, as it can dry up breast milk.
Recommendations for Nursing Mothers
While many healthcare providers suggest that ibuprofen alone is safe for treating pain and fever in breastfeeding mothers, the combination found in Advil Cold and Sinus may not be the best choice. If a nursing mother is experiencing severe cold symptoms, it may be advisable to opt for simpler medications, such as plain ibuprofen or acetaminophen (Tylenol), which are both considered safe and effective.
Conclusion
In summary, while Advil Cold and Sinus can provide relief for cold symptoms, breastfeeding mothers should approach its use with caution. The potential for decreased milk supply due to the decongestant component makes it a less favorable option compared to other pain relievers. Consulting with a healthcare provider is always recommended to ensure the safety of both mother and child when considering any medication during breastfeeding.

What cold medicine won’t affect my milk supply?

Options like Robitussin, Delsym, Triaminic and Vicks DayQuil Cough are unlikely to affect your supply and have no reported infant side effects. Pseudoephedrine. Another cold medicine safe for breastfeeding moms and their little ones is pseudoephedrine, the active ingredient in Sudafed and Allegra D.

Why is Zyrtec not recommended for breastfeeding?

However, caution is advised for cetirizine use while breastfeeding due to the theoretical risk of CNS depression based on limited human data and risk of decreased milk production.

How to get rid of a cold when breastfeeding?

Yes, there are several ways to manage cold symptoms without medications while breastfeeding:

  1. Drink lots of water or other clear liquids. Clear liquids, especially warm ones, help break up mucus in your nose and chest.
  2. Take a hot, steamy shower.
  3. Use a humidifier.
  4. Try a saline nasal spray or neti pot.
  5. Rest.

How to get rid of a cold 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.

What can I use for sinus while breastfeeding?

Corticosteroid nasal sprays containing beclomethasone and budesonide are considered safe to use during breastfeeding. Decongestant nasal sprays containing oxymetazoline, xylometazoline or tramazoline may be used if corticosteroid and antihistamine nasal sprays have not relieved the symptoms.

What cold and sinus medications are safe while breastfeeding?

Most cold medicines are safe while breastfeeding, especially if you take them short term and only when you need them. Some of the medications that are safe include: Expectorants that contain guaifenesin (Mucinex®, Robitussin® and others). Cough suppressants that contain dextromethorphan (DayQuil®, Delsym® and others).

Can you take cold and flu tablets while breastfeeding?

Over-the-counter medications and breastfeeding
Paracetamol, when taken as directed, is safe for breastfeeding. Breastfeeding mothers should avoid any cold or flu tablets containing pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine. These can make the baby unsettled. Pseudoephedrine has been known to decrease milk supply.

Who should not take Advil cold and Sinus?

Those with certain medical conditions should avoid taking Advil to treat sinus infections, particularly those who suffer from liver disease, heart disease, severe high blood pressure, Raynaud’s Syndrome, Crohn’s disease, or angioedema syndrome.

Can you take Advil cold and sinus while pregnant?

If pregnant or breast-feeding, ask a health professional before use. It is especially important not to use ibuprofen at 20 weeks or later in pregnancy unless definitely directed to do so by a doctor because it may cause problems in the unborn child or complications during delivery.

Can I take Advil cold and Sinus when 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.

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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