Does taking Panadol affect breast milk?

Understanding the Impact of Panadol on Breast Milk
When it comes to managing pain or fever during breastfeeding, many mothers wonder about the safety of medications like Panadol, which contains paracetamol. The concern primarily revolves around whether this medication can affect breast milk and, consequently, the nursing infant.
Paracetamol and Breast Milk Transfer
Research indicates that paracetamol does pass into breast milk, but the amounts are quite minimal. Studies show that the milk-to-plasma concentration ratio of paracetamol is approximately one, meaning that the concentration of the drug in breast milk is similar to that in the mother’s bloodstream. However, the estimated maximum dose that a breastfeeding infant could receive is only about 1.85% of the weight-adjusted maternal oral dose. This low percentage suggests that the exposure to the infant is very limited.
Safety Profile for Nursing Mothers
According to various health sources, paracetamol is considered one of the safest pain relief options for breastfeeding mothers. It has been widely used by nursing women without any reported adverse effects on either the mother or the baby. The NHS and other health organizations recommend paracetamol as a first-choice painkiller during breastfeeding, emphasizing that it appears in breast milk in very small amounts that are unlikely to harm the infant.
Concerns About Milk Supply
Another common concern among breastfeeding mothers is whether taking Panadol could influence milk supply. However, studies and expert analyses indicate that paracetamol does not negatively impact lactation. In fact, it has a DrLact safety score of 1 out of 8, which categorizes it as mostly safe for use during lactation. This score reflects a consensus among health professionals that the benefits of pain relief do not outweigh the minimal risks associated with paracetamol.
Conclusion
In summary, taking Panadol while breastfeeding is generally considered safe. The drug transfers into breast milk in very small amounts, and extensive use by nursing mothers has not been linked to adverse effects in their infants. As always, mothers should consult with healthcare providers regarding any medications they plan to take, but paracetamol remains a reliable option for managing pain during breastfeeding.

What will stop my milk supply?

Several factors will affect how long it takes for your milk to dry up, including your baby’s age and how much milk your body is making.

• 7 ways to dry your breast milk supply quickly.
• Cold turkey.
• Herbs.
• Cabbage.
• Birth control.
• Sudafed.
• Vitamin B.
• Other drugs.

Can I take Panadol night while breastfeeding?

Do not take PANADOL Night if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It passes into the breast milk and there is a possibility that the baby may be affected. Do not give PANADOL Night to newborn or premature babies. Do not give PANADOL Night to children under 12 years of age.

What medications decrease 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.

Does Panadol affect breast milk?

Paracetamol and breastfeeding
You can take normal doses of paracetamol (one or two 500mg tablets, every 4 hours up to 4 times in 24 hours with a maximum of 8 tablets in 24 hours) if you are breastfeeding. Paracetamol is a first-choice painkiller during breastfeeding. It passes into breast milk in very small amounts.

What are the side effects of Panadol?

What are the side effects of Panadol? Panadol is well-tolerated when taken in recommended doses. Some people may experience side effects such as nausea, tiredness, dizziness, shortness of breath, skin rash, itchy skin, abdominal pain, yellow skin or eyes, pale stools, dark urine, unusual nosebleeds, bleeding gums etc.

Is Panadol soluble safe for breastfeeding?

Talk to your healthcare professional before taking Panadol ActiFast Soluble Tablets if you are pregnant. You can take this product whilst breast feeding. Adults (including the elderly) and children aged 16 years and over: Take 1-2 tablets dissolved in water every 4 to 6 hours as needed.

Is Panadol Extend safe for breastfeeding?

Human studies have not identified any risk to lactation or the breastfed offspring. Paracetamol crosses the placental barrier and is excreted in breast milk. Use in children: Not suitable for use in children under 12 years of age. When taken in recommended doses, Panadol Extend is virtually free from side effects.

What medicine to avoid while breastfeeding?

Common medicines that are not recommended when you’re breastfeeding include:

• codeine phosphate.
• decongestants that come as tablets, liquids or powders that you swallow.
• some nasal decongestants that come as nose sprays or drops – check with a GP or pharmacist before using them.
• aspirin for pain relief.

Can I take Panadol cold and flu while breastfeeding?

It has been estimated that 0.5% to 0.7% of a single dose of pseudoephedrine ingested by the mother will be excreted in the breast milk over 24 hours. Therefore it is not recommended for breastfeeding mothers unless the potential benefits to the patient are weighed against the possible risk to the infant.

Does Panadol interact with milk?

Paracetamol can be taken with food or on an empty stomach. Paracetamol is gentle on the stomach, so in this case the choice is entirely yours whether you want to take medicine with milk or food.