Can moms take cold medicine while breastfeeding?

Can Moms Take Cold Medicine While Breastfeeding?
Breastfeeding mothers often face the dilemma of managing their health while ensuring the safety of their infants. When it comes to taking cold medicine, the good news is that many over-the-counter (OTC) options are generally considered safe for breastfeeding moms. However, caution is advised, and understanding which medications are appropriate is crucial.
Safety of Cold Medications
Most cold medications do not pose a significant risk to breastfeeding infants. According to health experts, common OTC cold remedies can be taken without endangering the baby. For instance, medications containing pseudoephedrine, such as Sudafed and Allegra D, are deemed safe. However, it’s important to note that while these medications can help alleviate symptoms, they may cause a temporary dip in milk production, particularly with long-term use.
What to Avoid
Despite the availability of safe options, some medications should be avoided. For example, products containing alcohol, as well as certain formulations like NyQuil and Benadryl, are not recommended for breastfeeding mothers. These can potentially affect both the mother and the infant. Additionally, while sedating antihistamines may be compatible with breastfeeding, they can cause drowsiness in infants, so monitoring is essential.
Natural Remedies and Hydration
In addition to OTC medications, many mothers find relief through natural remedies. Staying hydrated is particularly important, as it can help alleviate cold symptoms and support milk production. Breastfeeding itself also provides benefits, as it passes antibodies to the baby, helping to bolster their immune system.
Consulting Healthcare Providers
Ultimately, while many cold medications are safe, it is always best for breastfeeding mothers to consult with healthcare providers before starting any new medication. This ensures that they choose the safest options tailored to their specific health needs while considering the well-being of their child.
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can take certain cold medicines, but they should be mindful of what to avoid and consider natural remedies as well. With proper guidance and care, managing a cold while breastfeeding can be done safely.

How do you treat a cold in a breastfed baby?

Self care

1. Offer plenty of fluids. Liquids are important to avoid dehydration.
2. Suction your baby’s nose. Keep your baby’s nasal passages clear with a rubber-bulb syringe.
3. Try nasal saline drops. Your baby’s doctor may recommend saline nasal drops to moisten nasal passages and loosen thick nasal mucus.
4. Moisten the air.

Will my baby catch my cold if I breastfeed?

With most common illnesses like a cold or flu, it is safe to continue breastfeeding your baby as long as you take proper hygiene precautions like handwashing. Continuing to breastfeed will help you to maintain your milk supply and will provide your baby with protection against the illness you are experiencing.

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.

Is emergen C safe for breastfeeding?

Yes, you can take Emergen-C while breastfeeding, but it’s important to not exceed the recommended dosage. Emergen-C is a supplement rich in vitamin C, often used for boosting immune health. However, while vitamin C is crucial for both you and your baby, consuming it in large amounts can cause digestive upset.

How to treat a cold sore while breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding and cold sores
Cold sores occur commonly around the time of delivery, so it is important to treat cold sores aggressively to prevent transmission to a newborn baby. Aciclovir cream, aciclovir or valaciclovir tablets are all considered safe while breastfeeding.

What cold medicine can I take 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 Mucinex cold and flu while breastfeeding?

The expectorant guaifenesin and the cough suppressant dextromethorphan are often found together in products like Mucinex DM or Robitussin DM. Both of these medications have been used while breastfeeding. Small, occasional doses of antihistamines are acceptable while nursing.

Can breastfeeding moms take Tylenol cold and flu?

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.

How can I fight 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.

Will DayQuil dry up breast milk?

Other medications, like phenylephrine and pseudoephedrine, can hinder milk production and cause irritability or other side effects in babies. Avoid products sold under the brand names Benedryl, Sudafed, NyQuil, and DayQuil while lactating.