Can you have a Lemsip when breastfeeding?

Can You Have Lemsip While Breastfeeding?
As the cold and flu season approaches, many breastfeeding mothers find themselves grappling with the question of whether they can safely take over-the-counter medications like Lemsip. This popular remedy, known for alleviating symptoms of colds and flu, raises concerns about its safety for nursing mothers and their infants.
Understanding Lemsip’s Ingredients
Lemsip typically contains paracetamol (acetaminophen), which is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. Paracetamol is often recommended for pain relief and fever reduction during lactation, as it passes into breast milk in very small amounts and is unlikely to harm a nursing infant. However, Lemsip also contains other ingredients, such as phenylephrine, which is a decongestant. The safety of phenylephrine during breastfeeding is less clear, and some healthcare professionals advise caution due to potential effects on the infant.
Expert Opinions and Recommendations
Many mothers have turned to online forums like Mumsnet to seek advice on this topic, often reporting mixed responses. Some users express concern about taking Lemsip while breastfeeding, citing conflicting information they have received. Others suggest alternative remedies, such as steam inhalation or herbal teas, to alleviate cold symptoms without the risks associated with medication.
Healthcare professionals typically recommend consulting with a doctor or pharmacist before taking any medication while breastfeeding. They can provide personalized advice based on the specific formulation of Lemsip and the mother’s health condition.
Timing and Dosage Considerations
If a breastfeeding mother decides to take Lemsip, timing can be crucial. It is often suggested to wait a few hours after taking the medication before breastfeeding again, allowing the body time to metabolize the drug. This approach may help minimize any potential exposure to the infant.
Conclusion
In summary, while paracetamol in Lemsip is generally safe for breastfeeding mothers, the presence of other ingredients like phenylephrine warrants caution. Consulting with a healthcare provider is the best course of action to ensure both the mother’s health and the safety of her breastfeeding infant. For those seeking relief from cold symptoms, exploring non-medicated alternatives may also be beneficial.

Is paracetamol safe while breastfeeding?

Paracetamol and breastfeeding
You can take normal doses of paracetamol (one or two 500mg tablets, every 4 hours up to 4 times in 24 hours with a maximum of 8 tablets in 24 hours) if you are breastfeeding. Paracetamol is a first-choice painkiller during breastfeeding. It passes into breast milk in very small amounts.

Who should not take Lemsip?

Lemsip should be avoided by people with a history of an overactive thyroid/hyperthyroidism as the active decongestants in the products may worsen symptoms. This is not the case for underactive thyroid/hypothyroidism sufferers.

Can you have Lemsip when pregnant?

Lemsip® Some Lemsip products contain a decongestant and so should be avoided in pregnancy. Ask a pharmacist if you are unsure.

Is Mucinex safe 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.

Is Lemsip safe?

Possible side effects include hypersensitivity, blood problems or, above the recommended dose, pancreatitis and vomiting. Taking Lemsip alongside other medicine containing paracetamol can cause an overdose, potentially resulting in serious liver and kidney damage.

How can I fight a cold while breastfeeding?

Making sure you take in plenty of fluids and eat nourishing foods. Use saline sprays and humidifiers for nasal congestion and throat lozenges for sore throat and cough. If you are sick enough to need antiviral medications, Tamiflu is preferred for breastfeeding mothers over other antiviral medications.

Can you take Lemsips while breastfeeding?

Decongestant tablets, powders and drinks (e.g. Lemsip®. Sudafed®, Beechams all-in-one®, Sinutab®, drug names include pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine) are not recommended when you are breastfeeding because they may reduce your breastmilk supply. For more information, see our factsheet on decongestants.

Is mucinex safe 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 a breastfeeding mother take cold caps?

This medication may pass into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before 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).