Does cough medicine affect breast milk?

Understanding the Impact of Cough Medicine on Breast Milk
For breastfeeding mothers, the question of whether cough medicine affects breast milk is a significant concern, especially when they are feeling under the weather. The good news is that many common cough medications are considered safe for nursing mothers and are unlikely to adversely affect breast milk or the nursing infant.
How Cough Medicines Interact with Breast Milk
When a breastfeeding mother takes cough medicine, the active ingredients can pass into her breast milk. However, studies indicate that the concentration of these medications in breast milk is typically very low—often less than 1% of the dosage taken by the mother. This minimal transfer means that the risk of significant effects on the infant is generally low, particularly for medications that are commonly used.
Safe Options for Nursing Mothers
Several over-the-counter cough medications are deemed safe for breastfeeding mothers. For instance, products containing dextromethorphan (a cough suppressant) and guaifenesin (an expectorant) are frequently recommended. These medications are unlikely to impact milk supply or cause adverse effects in infants. Specifically, guaifenesin has been noted to have very little data indicating harm when used by breastfeeding mothers, especially for infants over two months old.
Additionally, pseudoephedrine, found in medications like Sudafed, is another option that is considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. It has been shown to have no reported side effects in infants when taken by nursing mothers.
Caution and Consultation
Despite the general safety of many cough medications, it is crucial for breastfeeding mothers to consult healthcare professionals before starting any new medication. Individual health conditions, the specific medication’s formulation, and the infant’s age and health status can all influence safety. Moreover, while many medications are safe, some may still pose risks, particularly if taken in high doses or for extended periods.
Conclusion
In summary, while cough medicine can pass into breast milk, many commonly used options are safe for breastfeeding mothers and their infants. Medications like dextromethorphan, guaifenesin, and pseudoephedrine are generally well-tolerated and unlikely to cause harm. However, as with any medication, it is always best to seek guidance from a healthcare provider to ensure the safety and well-being of both mother and child.

Can I take cough medicine while breastfeeding?

If you are feeling very unwell because of a cold, the flu or sinus problems, you should contact your doctor. For a dry cough, a cough suppressant such as pholcodine or dextromethorphan is considered safe while breastfeeding. A dry, irritating cough is usually associated with a postnasal drip.

What cough syrup is safe while breastfeeding?

For a dry cough, a cough suppressant such as pholcodine or dextromethorphan is considered safe while breastfeeding. A dry, irritating cough is usually associated with a postnasal drip.

Does cough syrup dry up breast milk?

Oral decongestants are not recommended when you are breastfeeding as they can reduce your milk supply with just one or two doses. There are many combination cold & flu products available, containing multiple medications. Each ingredient should be checked separately to see if you can take it when breastfeeding.

What cough medicine is OK while breastfeeding?

For a dry cough, a cough suppressant such as pholcodine or dextromethorphan is considered safe while breastfeeding.

Does Robitussin affect breast milk supply?

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.

Will cough drops dry up breast milk?

Most lozenges with menthol are safe for nursing moms because very little makes it into the milk supply. However, menthol is derived from peppermint oil, which may reduce milk supply in some women.

Will Mucinex dry up my breast milk?

“It is best to avoid certain over-the-counter cough medications as they may decrease breast milk supply,” says Dr. Neela. “Just as they dry up your nasal congestion, they can also dry up your breast milk. Usually, antihistamines and nasal decongestants are the ingredients that have this effect on breastmilk.”

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.

Can I have honey while breastfeeding?

Yes, it is ok for a breastfeeding mother to eat honey. Botulism is not transmitted by breast milk. The Infant Botulism Treatment and Prevention Program recommends continuing breast feeding or the feeding of expressed breast milk during the illness and recovery from infant botulism.

How to treat a cough in breastfeeding mothers?

Gargle some salt water. If you have a cough, try a cough medicine that is based on glycerine and honey. Ask your pharmacist to recommend one that is safe for breastfeeding. A throat lozenge can help ease a dry sore throat.