Can I take Tylenol PM while breastfeeding?

Can I Take Tylenol PM While Breastfeeding?
When it comes to managing pain or discomfort while breastfeeding, many mothers wonder about the safety of medications like Tylenol PM. This combination medication contains acetaminophen, which is commonly used for pain relief, and diphenhydramine, an antihistamine that can induce drowsiness. Understanding the implications of taking Tylenol PM while nursing is crucial for both maternal health and infant safety.
Safety of Acetaminophen in Breastfeeding
Acetaminophen, the active ingredient in Tylenol, is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. Research indicates that only a small amount of acetaminophen passes into breast milk, and it is unlikely to affect the nursing infant adversely. The American Family Physician lists acetaminophen as a “recommended agent” for pain relief during breastfeeding, reinforcing its safety profile. Additionally, studies have shown that acetaminophen does not impact milk supply, making it a viable option for mothers needing pain relief.
Considerations for Diphenhydramine
The other component of Tylenol PM, diphenhydramine, poses more considerations. While it is effective for alleviating allergy symptoms and promoting sleep, it can cause sedation in both the mother and potentially the infant. The effects of diphenhydramine on breastfeeding infants are less well-studied compared to acetaminophen. Some experts suggest that while occasional use may be acceptable, regular or high doses should be approached with caution.
Recommendations for Use
If a breastfeeding mother is considering taking Tylenol PM, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider first. They can provide personalized guidance based on the mother’s health status and the infant’s age and health. In general, if a mother chooses to take Tylenol PM, it may be best to do so at a time when she can monitor her infant for any unusual behavior, particularly signs of increased drowsiness.
Conclusion
In summary, while acetaminophen is deemed safe for breastfeeding mothers, the inclusion of diphenhydramine in Tylenol PM requires careful consideration. Consulting with a healthcare professional is essential to ensure both the mother’s and infant’s safety. By taking these precautions, mothers can manage their discomfort while continuing to provide for their baby’s needs.

Is Tylenol PM ok 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).

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.

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 breastfeeding moms take Tylenol PM?

Most over-the-counter (also called OTC) medicine, like pain relievers and cold medicine, are OK to take when you’re breastfeeding. For example, OTC pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil®) or acetaminophen (Tylenol®) are safe to use when breastfeeding.

Is Tylenol Cold PM safe during pregnancy?

Cold medications that are generally considered safe for pregnant people include: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) Some antihistamines, including loratadine (Claritin) and diphenhydramine (Benadryl)

What sleep aid can I take 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.

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

Can I have Tylenol PM while pregnant?

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 it harmful to take Tylenol PM every night?

Studies have linked the regular, long-term use of OTC sleep medicines to some potentially serious side effects. “Many OTC sleep aids—such as Benadryl and Tylenol PM—contain diphenhydramine,” says Dr. Donovan Maust, co-author of the recent study and an assistant professor of psychiatry at Michigan Medicine.

Can I take Advil PM while breastfeeding?

Because of its extremely low levels in breastmilk, short half-life and safe use in infants in doses much higher than those excreted in breastmilk, ibuprofen is a preferred choice as an analgesic or antiinflammatory agent in nursing mothers.