Can you take cold and flu tablets while breastfeeding?

Can You Take Cold and Flu Tablets While Breastfeeding?
Navigating the world of medications while breastfeeding can be daunting for new mothers, especially when it comes to treating common ailments like colds and flu. Fortunately, many over-the-counter cold remedies are generally considered safe for nursing mothers, but there are important considerations to keep in mind.
Safety of Cold Medications
Most cold and flu medications can be taken while breastfeeding, but it’s crucial to choose wisely. According to health experts, many over-the-counter options are safe, but some ingredients may pose risks. For instance, medications containing codeine and aspirin should be avoided, as they can have adverse effects on both the mother and the infant .
Recommended Medications
Commonly recommended medications include paracetamol (acetaminophen) and ibuprofen, which are safe to use at normal adult doses. These can help alleviate symptoms like fever and body aches without significant risk to the breastfeeding infant. Additionally, nasal sprays like fluticasone are also deemed safe, as they result in undetectable levels in maternal plasma, minimizing the chance of transfer into breast milk.
Consulting Healthcare Professionals
While many medications are safe, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific health needs and the medications you are considering. This is particularly important if you are taking multiple medications or have underlying health conditions.
Breastfeeding Benefits During Illness
Interestingly, breastfeeding during a cold can actually benefit the baby. The antibodies passed through breast milk can help protect the infant from infections, including the cold virus itself. This means that not only is it safe to continue breastfeeding while sick, but it may also bolster the baby’s immune system.
Conclusion
In summary, while many cold and flu medications are safe for breastfeeding mothers, caution is advised. Always check the ingredients, avoid certain medications like codeine and aspirin, and consult with a healthcare professional for tailored advice. By taking these precautions, nursing mothers can effectively manage their symptoms while ensuring the safety and health of their infants.

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.

What can I take for cold and flu while breastfeeding?

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.

Can I take vitamin C while breastfeeding?

The recommended vitamin C intake in lactating women is 120 mg daily, and for infants aged 6 months or less is 40 mg daily. [1] High daily doses up to 1000 mg increase milk levels, but not enough to cause a health concern for the breastfed infant and is not a reason to discontinue breastfeeding.

Is Mucinex safe for 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 you take Tylenol cold and flu Multi Action while breastfeeding?

Acetaminophen is considered safe during breastfeeding. The amount transferred into breast milk is low. Acetaminophen is not harmful to babies at low concentrations.

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.

Does your milk supply drop when you are sick?

Getting sick. Just catching a virus or bug such as the flu, a cold, or a stomach virus won’t decrease your milk supply. However, related symptoms such as fatigue, diarrhea, vomiting, or decreased appetite definitely can.

Will my baby get sick if I’m sick and breastfeeding?

In fact, your body will actually start producing antibodies for those illnesses and pass those antibodies through your milk to your baby, effectively reducing the risk and severity of those illnesses to your infant and/or toddler.

What is the safest anti allergy medication for breastfeeding?

Cetirizine (Zyrtec) and loratadine (Claritin) are the recommended antihistamines when breastfeeding. Other antihistamines are also considered safe but do not have as much research to support this. These include Allegra and Xyzal. Antihistamines such as Zatador are available as eye drops, which help itchy, watery eyes.

Why is Zyrtec not recommended while breastfeeding?

Zyrtec, although generally safe, is not recommended during breastfeeding because it passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. Possible side effects on the baby include irritation or lethargy. Always consult your healthcare provider before taking any medication while breastfeeding.