Can I take Advil PM while breastfeeding?

Can I Take Advil PM While Breastfeeding?
When it comes to managing pain or discomfort while breastfeeding, many mothers may wonder about the safety of medications like Advil PM. This combination medication contains ibuprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), and diphenhydramine, an antihistamine commonly used as a sleep aid. Understanding the implications of taking Advil PM during breastfeeding is crucial for both maternal health and infant safety.
Safety of Ibuprofen While Breastfeeding
The primary ingredient in Advil PM, ibuprofen, is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. Research indicates that only tiny amounts of ibuprofen pass into breast milk, which are unlikely to cause any adverse effects in breastfed infants. In fact, ibuprofen is often recommended as a preferred analgesic for nursing mothers due to its short half-life and the fact that it has been used safely in infants at doses much higher than those found in breast milk.
Considerations for Diphenhydramine
The second component of Advil PM, diphenhydramine, poses a different set of considerations. While it is also present in breast milk, the effects on breastfeeding infants are less well-studied. Diphenhydramine can cause sedation, which may affect both the mother and the infant. Some experts advise caution, particularly if the mother needs to be alert for caregiving.
Recommendations for Use
If a breastfeeding mother is considering taking Advil PM, it is advisable to do so occasionally and to monitor the infant for any unusual behavior, such as increased drowsiness or irritability. Consulting with a healthcare provider before taking any medication is always a prudent step, especially when combining medications that may have sedative effects.
Conclusion
In summary, while ibuprofen in Advil PM is generally safe for breastfeeding mothers, the presence of diphenhydramine warrants careful consideration. Mothers should weigh the benefits against potential risks and consult healthcare professionals to ensure the best outcomes for both themselves and their infants.

Can I 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 Advil PM safe during pregnancy?

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 breastfeed if I took Benadryl?

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.

Can I take Advil PM breastfeeding?

Takeaway. Ibuprofen and some other OTC pain medicines are safe to take while you’re breastfeeding. However, if you’re concerned, talk with your health care provider about any questions you have.

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

When should you not take Advil PM?

Do not use this medicine just before or after heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG). Ibuprofen may also cause stomach or intestinal bleeding, which can be fatal. These conditions can occur without warning while you are using Advil PM, especially in older adults.

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 OK for 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.

Is melatonin safe while breastfeeding?

Melatonin and breastfeeding
It’s thought to be a small amount that is unlikely to cause any side effects in your baby. However, if taken for longer periods of time, it might make your baby sleepy. It’s important not to share a bed with your baby while you’re taking melatonin.

What does melatonin do to breast milk?

Breast milk naturally contains melatonin, but when you take manufactured melatonin, it is not known how much of it passes into breast milk. It’s thought to be a small amount that is unlikely to cause any side effects in your baby. However, if taken for longer periods of time, it might make your baby sleepy.