Can breastfeeding moms take dextromethorphan?

Understanding Dextromethorphan Use in Breastfeeding
For breastfeeding mothers, managing health issues like coughs and colds can be a delicate balance between seeking relief and ensuring the safety of their nursing infants. One common over-the-counter medication that often comes into question is dextromethorphan, a cough suppressant found in many cold and flu remedies.
Safety Profile of Dextromethorphan
Research indicates that the amounts of dextromethorphan and its active metabolite present in breast milk are very low. According to the Drugs and Lactation Database, these levels are not expected to have any significant effects on a breastfeeding infant. This suggests that, when taken in recommended doses, dextromethorphan is generally considered safe for nursing mothers.
However, it is important to note that while dextromethorphan itself poses minimal risk, breastfeeding mothers are advised to avoid combination medications that contain multiple active ingredients. These combinations can complicate the safety profile and increase the risk of adverse effects.
Recommendations for Use
Healthcare professionals often recommend that breastfeeding mothers use dextromethorphan as a single-ingredient medication rather than as part of a multi-symptom formula. This approach minimizes the potential for unintended exposure to other substances that may not be safe for infants. Additionally, mothers should be cautious about using products with high alcohol content, as these can pose risks to both the mother and the nursing child.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can generally take dextromethorphan without significant concern for their infants, provided they stick to single-ingredient formulations and avoid high-alcohol products. As always, it is best for nursing mothers to consult with their healthcare provider before starting any new medication to ensure it aligns with their specific health needs and circumstances.

What is the best decongestant for breastfeeding moms?

Afrin (oxymetazoline) nasal spray is a nasal decongestant that can be used safely while breastfeeding. Because the medicine is not absorbed well from the nasal passages, it doesn’t have the same effect on milk supply that decongestants taken by mouth can have.

Will Robitussin DM dry up my milk supply?

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).

What cough drops can I take while breastfeeding?

Dextromethorphan (L3): This is an antitussive drug that appears to work by elevating the cough threshold in the brain. It is the safest of the antitussives and unlikely to transfer into milk. Watch breastfed infants for drowsiness or poor feeding. Common trade names: DM, Benylin, Delsym, Robitussin DM.

What can I take for a cough while breastfeeding?

Cough. Two main OTC cough medications are considered safe to take when breastfeeding: dextromethorphan (Delsym) and guaifenesin (Mucinex, Robitussin). Dextromethorphan helps calm a cough.

Who Cannot take dextromethorphan?

Before taking dextromethorphan,
tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the following medications or have stopped taking them within the past two weeks: monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam, Zelapar), and tranylcypromine (Parnate).

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.

Will Mucinex dry up milk supply?

Neela. “Just as they dry up your nasal congestion, they can also dry up your breast milk.

What cough drops are safe while pregnant?

Cough & Cold: Cough Drops

• Halls Menthol Cough Suppressant/Oral Anesthetic Plus Medicine Center.
• Ricola Cough Suppressant Throat Drops.
• Vicks Menthol Cough Suppressant/Oral Anesthetic Drops.

Is dextromethorphan ok while breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding while taking dextromethorphan:
Because dextromethorphan appears to pass into breastmilk in small amounts, side effects in nursing children would not be expected.

What cough syrup won’t affect my milk supply?

Dextromethorphan. This cold medicine is considered safe for breastfeeding moms and babies. Options like Robitussin, Delsym, Triaminic and Vicks DayQuil Cough are unlikely to affect your supply and have no reported infant side effects.