Does alka seltzer affect breast milk?

Understanding Alka-Seltzer and Its Impact on Breastfeeding
Alka-Seltzer, a popular over-the-counter remedy known for its antacid and pain-relieving properties, raises important questions for breastfeeding mothers regarding its safety and potential effects on breast milk. As many new mothers seek relief from discomfort while ensuring the well-being of their infants, understanding the implications of using Alka-Seltzer during lactation is crucial.
Ingredients and Their Implications
Alka-Seltzer typically contains a combination of active ingredients, including aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid), sodium bicarbonate, and citric acid. While these components are effective for treating symptoms like heartburn, headaches, and indigestion, they may pose risks when ingested by breastfeeding mothers. Research suggests that some ingredients in Alka-Seltzer could potentially affect breast milk and, consequently, the nursing infant.
For instance, aspirin is known to pass into breast milk in small amounts. Although the levels are generally considered low, there is a concern regarding its association with Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious condition that can affect children. Therefore, many healthcare professionals advise caution, particularly for mothers with infants under six months old, as their systems are still developing.
Recommendations for Breastfeeding Mothers
Given the potential risks associated with the ingredients in Alka-Seltzer, it is often recommended that breastfeeding mothers avoid using this medication unless absolutely necessary. If relief from symptoms is required, alternatives that are deemed safer for breastfeeding mothers may be suggested. For example, acetaminophen (paracetamol) is generally considered safer and is often recommended for pain relief during lactation.
Moreover, the age of the infant plays a significant role in determining the safety of using Alka-Seltzer. For older infants, particularly those over a month old, some healthcare providers may consider the use of Alka-Seltzer to be less risky, but this should always be discussed with a healthcare professional.
Conclusion
In summary, while Alka-Seltzer can provide relief for various ailments, its use during breastfeeding should be approached with caution. The potential for certain ingredients to affect breast milk and the health of the infant necessitates a careful evaluation of the risks versus benefits. Mothers are encouraged to consult with healthcare providers to explore safer alternatives and ensure the health and safety of both themselves and their babies.

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.

What decreases milk supply?

Other things that can also lead you to have low milk production include:

• Smoking or drinking.
• Some medicines and herbs.
• Hormonal forms of birth control. This is especially true for birth control that has estrogen.
• Nursing or pumping less often.
• Getting sick.
• Feeling stressed.
• Getting pregnant again.

What medicine suppresses breast milk?

Cabergoline is given as a single 1 mg dose (2 x 0.5 mg tab) during the first day postpartum. Onset of effect occurs within 3 hours of administration and the duration of effect lasts up to at least 14-21 days in puerperal women.

What can I take for a cold while breastfeeding?

You can use lozenges, pastilles and throat sprays (e.g. Strepsils®, Ultra-Chloraseptic throat spray®, Difflam®) when you are breastfeeding, to relieve your symptoms. There is very little data on whether these products affect breastfed infants, but they have been used extensively without reports of problems.

What drinks should I avoid when breastfeeding?

Foods and drinks to avoid while breastfeeding
Caffeine passes into breastmilk, so large amounts of tea, coffee and cola drinks are best avoided. Drinking small amounts of drinks with caffeine (3 or less drinks a day) should not be a problem. Alcohol also passes into breastmilk and can affect your baby.

What happens if I don’t breastfeed for 3 days?

You may have some milk leak from your breasts, and your breasts may feel sore and swollen. This is called engorgement. It usually gets better after several days. Over time, your body will stop making milk if you don’t breastfeed or pump.

Can you take alka seltzer when breastfeeding?

Pain Relivers to Avoid While Breastfeeding
On the pain-reliever front, it may be a good idea to avoid aspirin (Excedrin), aspirin-containing meds (like Alka Seltzer), and naproxen (Aleve) as well.

What medications affect breast milk supply?

Medications that affect breast milk production

• Cold medicines containing pseudoephedrine. Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) is an OTC medication that treats nasal congestion.
• Fertility medications like clomiphene. Clomiphene is sometimes used as a fertility treatment.
• Birth control containing estrogen.

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

What drinks dry up breast milk?

Tips for Drying Up Your Breast Milk

• Drink one mug of sage or peppermint tea 3 or 4 times per day, for 2 to 3 days.
• Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) can help dry up your milk, but ask your doctor before using this medicine, and do not take it if you have kidney or thyroid problems, or if you have glaucoma.