Does Tylenol PM affect breast milk supply?

Understanding the Impact of Tylenol PM on Breast Milk Supply
When it comes to managing pain or discomfort during breastfeeding, many mothers may wonder about the safety and effects of medications like Tylenol PM. This combination medication, which includes acetaminophen and diphenhydramine, is commonly used for pain relief and as a sleep aid. However, its implications for breastfeeding mothers and their milk supply are crucial considerations.
Acetaminophen and Breastfeeding
Acetaminophen, the active ingredient in Tylenol, is generally regarded as safe for nursing mothers. Research indicates that it poses minimal risk to breastfed infants, with very little of the drug transferring into breast milk. Studies have shown that acetaminophen does not significantly affect breastfeeding initiation or continuation rates. In fact, some evidence suggests that using acetaminophen in conjunction with ibuprofen can even enhance breastfeeding rates following childbirth.
The Role of Diphenhydramine
Tylenol PM also contains diphenhydramine, an antihistamine that can cause drowsiness. While diphenhydramine is not known to have a direct negative impact on milk supply, it is important to note that antihistamines can sometimes lead to decreased milk production in some women. This effect is not universally experienced, and many mothers report no issues with their milk supply when using medications containing diphenhydramine.
Mixed Reports on Milk Supply
Despite the general consensus on the safety of acetaminophen, anecdotal reports from some mothers suggest that the use of Tylenol PM may impact their milk supply. These reports highlight a potential variability in individual responses to the medication. While the scientific literature does not strongly support the idea that Tylenol PM significantly affects milk production, the subjective experiences of mothers cannot be overlooked.
Recommendations for Nursing Mothers
For nursing mothers considering the use of Tylenol PM, it is advisable to consult with healthcare providers, especially if there are concerns about milk supply or if the mother has a premature or medically fragile infant. Limited use of Tylenol PM is generally considered safe, but monitoring one’s own body and milk supply is essential.
In conclusion, while Tylenol PM is largely deemed safe for breastfeeding mothers, individual experiences may vary. The key takeaway is that acetaminophen does not adversely affect milk supply, but the diphenhydramine component may have mixed effects. As always, open communication with healthcare professionals can help ensure the best outcomes for both mother and baby.

How long does Tylenol PM stay in your system?

If you have no significant health conditions and only take Tylenol at recommended doses, then it is typically out of your system within 12 to 24 hours after your last dose. If you’ve been taking more than the recommended doses of Tylenol, it could take a few days for your body to clear it.

What sleeping pills can I take while breastfeeding?

However, the ‘z- drugs’ (zolpidem and zopiclone) are preferred for the short-term management of insomnia during breastfeeding, as they have shorter half-lives than the benzodiazepines and appear to pass into breast milk in small amounts. Melatonin can also be used in breastfeeding with caution.

What medications dry up milk?

To prevent your body naturally producing breast milk after the birth of your baby, we can prescribe you a medication called Cabergoline. Cabergoline works by stopping your body’s production of prolactin (a hormone that the body releases to help maintain the milk supply).

What sleep aid is safe while breastfeeding?

However, the ‘z- drugs’ (zolpidem and zopiclone) are preferred for the short-term management of insomnia during breastfeeding, as they have shorter half-lives than the benzodiazepines and appear to pass into breast milk in small amounts. Melatonin can also be used in breastfeeding with caution.

Does Tylenol PM affect baby when pregnant?

Yes. Tylenol PM contains 500 mg acetaminophen plus 25 mg of diphenhydramine (Benadryl). Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine that also functions as a short-term sleep aid, and it’s safe to take during pregnancy. It’s generally considered safe to take 2 caplets at bedtime during pregnancy.

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.

Does Tylenol PM decrease milk supply?

Acetaminophen is a good choice for analgesia, and fever reduction in nursing mothers. Giving acetaminophen and ibuprofen on a fixed schedule for 24 hours after vaginal delivery appears to increase the breastfeeding rate.

Can I take Tylenol PM two nights in a row while pregnant?

Tylenol PM is a combination of two drugs: Acetaminophen and diphenhydramine (an antihistamine found in Benadryl). Both drugs have generally been thought to be safe during pregnancy, Roshan says, but it’s important to make sure usage is occasional, not consistent.

What medications can 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.

Can you take Tylenol nighttime while breastfeeding?

Many medicines are safe to use when you breastfeed. These include: Pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin).