Does phenylephrine stop breast milk?

Understanding Phenylephrine and Its Effects on Breastfeeding
Phenylephrine, a common decongestant found in many over-the-counter medications, has raised concerns among breastfeeding mothers regarding its potential impact on milk supply. As mothers navigate the challenges of managing congestion while ensuring their infants receive adequate nutrition, understanding the implications of phenylephrine use becomes crucial.
The Mechanism of Phenylephrine
Phenylephrine works primarily as a vasoconstrictor, which means it narrows blood vessels to reduce swelling and congestion. While it is often deemed safe for general use, its effects on lactation are less clear. Research indicates that the oral bioavailability of phenylephrine is relatively low, around 40%, suggesting that only a small amount of the drug enters the bloodstream and potentially reaches breast milk. This low absorption rate implies that the risk of significant exposure to breastfed infants is minimal.
Potential Impact on Milk Supply
Despite its low bioavailability, there are indications that phenylephrine may suppress lactation. Studies conducted on animals have shown that phenylephrine could reduce milk supply, although comprehensive studies on humans are lacking. Specifically, both oral and intravenous forms of phenylephrine have been associated with decreased milk production, raising concerns for breastfeeding mothers who may rely on these forms for relief from nasal congestion.
Conversely, the use of nasal sprays containing phenylephrine appears to have a less pronounced effect on breast milk production. This method of administration may limit systemic absorption, thereby reducing the likelihood of impacting lactation.
Recommendations for Breastfeeding Mothers
Given the potential for lactation suppression, healthcare providers often advise caution when considering phenylephrine during breastfeeding. While it is classified as a low-risk compound due to its limited transfer into breast milk, the possibility of reduced milk supply cannot be overlooked. Mothers are encouraged to consult with their healthcare providers to explore alternative treatments for congestion that may pose less risk to their milk supply.
In summary, while phenylephrine is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers due to its low bioavailability, there is evidence suggesting it may suppress milk production. Therefore, careful consideration and consultation with a healthcare professional are recommended to ensure both maternal health and adequate infant nutrition.

How long does phenylephrine stay in your system?

Phenylephrine has a relatively short elimination half-life of 2.0 to 3.0 hours regardless of route of administration.

Can you breastfeed while taking Sudafed PE?

Pseudoephedrine and breastfeeding
Pseudoephedrine is not usually recommended while breastfeeding. Although it only seems to pass into breast milk in very small amounts, there is still not enough information about pseudoephedrine and breastfeeding. Until we know more, other medicines might be better.

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.

Why is phenylephrine preferred in pregnancy?

Phenylephrine is currently the vasopressor of choice for preventing or treating spinal-induced hypotension in many practices, as many studies in elective cesarean deliveries have demonstrated phenylephrine to be associated with more favorable fetal acid–base status and greater effectiveness in preventing hypotension …

What drug can stop breast discharge?

Try a medicine, such as bromocriptine (Cycloset, Parlodel) or cabergoline, to lower your prolactin level and minimize or stop milky nipple discharge. Side effects of these medications commonly include nausea, dizziness and headaches.

Is it okay to take phenylephrine while pregnant?

And decreased blood flow can prevent the fetus from getting enough oxygen, which can cause birth defects or make the baby’s heart beat too slowly. Because of this risk, you should not take oral phenylephrine during pregnancy. On the other hand, intranasal phenylephrine mostly affects just the nasal passages.

When should phenylephrine be avoided?

do not take phenylephrine if you are taking a monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor, such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam, Zelapar), and tranylcypromine (Parnate), or if you have stopped taking one of these medications within the past 2 weeks.

What drugs stop breast milk secretion?

Using medication to stop your breast milk
Taking drugs such as Cabergoline or Dostinex® to stop breast milk works best for mothers who have not been breastfeeding for long. Talk to your doctor, midwife or nurse if you would like more information about these drugs.

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.

Will phenylephrine dry up breast milk?

Phenyephrine is poorly bioavailability (not well absorbed from the gut) so it is not likely to produce effects in a breastfed infant with normal doses. Because of pseudoephedrine’s effect on milk production, concerns exist that phenylephrine may suppress milk although there is no evidence that this occurs.