Does dextromethorphan affect breast milk?

Understanding Dextromethorphan and Its Impact on Breast Milk
Dextromethorphan (DM), a common ingredient in over-the-counter cough medications, has raised questions regarding its safety for breastfeeding mothers and their infants. As more mothers seek relief from cough and cold symptoms, understanding the implications of using DM while nursing is crucial.
Minimal Transfer to Breast Milk
Research indicates that dextromethorphan does pass into breast milk, but the amounts are notably low. According to the Drugs and Lactation Database, the concentrations of DM and its active metabolite, dextrorphan, found in breast milk are not expected to pose any significant risk to nursing infants. This is supported by findings that suggest side effects in breastfed children are unlikely due to the minimal transfer of the drug.
Potential Effects on Infants
While the low levels of dextromethorphan in breast milk are reassuring, there is still a degree of caution advised. Some studies have not thoroughly evaluated the effects of DM on breastfed infants, leaving a gap in comprehensive understanding. For instance, one case noted a rash in an infant, but it was unclear whether this was related to the mother’s use of DM. Therefore, while adverse effects are not expected, monitoring for any unusual symptoms in infants is prudent.
Recommendations for Nursing Mothers
Health professionals generally consider dextromethorphan to be one of the safer options among antitussives for breastfeeding mothers. However, it is recommended to avoid products that contain high levels of alcohol or multiple medications, as these could pose greater risks. The consensus is that while DM is relatively safe, it should be used judiciously and only when necessary.
Conclusion
In summary, dextromethorphan appears to be a safe choice for breastfeeding mothers seeking relief from cough symptoms, with minimal transfer to breast milk and low risk of affecting the nursing infant. Nonetheless, as with any medication, it is essential for mothers to consult healthcare providers to ensure the best outcomes for both themselves and their babies.

What cough syrup won’t affect my 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.

Is dextromethorphan safe to use while breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding while taking dextromethorphan:
Because dextromethorphan appears to pass into breastmilk in small amounts, side effects in nursing children would not be expected.

What is the best cough suppressant when 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.

Who Cannot take dextromethorphan?

Before taking dextromethorphan,
tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the following medications or have stopped taking them within the past two weeks: monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam, Zelapar), and tranylcypromine (Parnate).

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 breastfeed after taking cough syrup?

Cough Linctus/Syrup
Products containing dextromethorphan will calm a dry cough. You can take these whilst breastfeeding, but you should avoid them if there is any phlegm on your chest. Suppressing a chesty cough could cause a chest infection, particularly if you are asthmatic.

Is dextromethorphan the same as pholcodine?

Pholcodine is a centrally acting cough suppressant that has actions and uses similar to those of dextromethorphan. It has little or no analgesic or euphorigenic activity.

Will Robitussin DM dry up my milk supply?

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).

What cough drops should I avoid while breastfeeding?

Avoid taking large amounts of cough drops containing menthol as this may decrease milk production. Diarrhea ■ Loperamide (Imodium A-D) Don’t use bismuth-containing medications (Pepto-Bismol, Kaopectate) as they contain salicylates (similar to aspirin) which may be harmful to your baby.

What medications drop milk supply?

For example, antihistamines like Benadryl, Zyrtec, Allegra, etc, or decongestants like Sudafed, can decrease your milk supply. So please call us if you are breastfeeding and need clarification on the safety of a medication or to see if a medication you are taking may be affecting your milk supply while breastfeeding.