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Understanding the Use of Sudafed to Dry Up Breast Milk
For mothers looking to reduce or stop their breast milk supply, the use of Sudafed (pseudoephedrine) has emerged as a topic of discussion. While many women have reported success with this method, it’s essential to approach it with caution and awareness of the potential implications.
How Sudafed Works
Sudafed is primarily known as a decongestant, but it has also been noted for its ability to suppress lactation. The mechanism behind this is linked to its action on the body’s hormonal balance. Pseudoephedrine can reduce milk production by affecting the hormones responsible for lactation, particularly prolactin.
Dosage and Effectiveness
The dosage of Sudafed that some mothers have reported using varies. Anecdotal evidence suggests that taking 60 mg of Sudafed daily can lead to a significant reduction in milk supply within a few days. One user mentioned taking four Sudafed tablets a day initially, which resulted in a drop from producing 12-14 ounces of milk to about 6 ounces. Another mother noted that after taking it for just one day, her milk supply dried up within 48 hours.
However, it’s crucial to note that individual responses can vary widely. While some may experience rapid results, others might find that it takes longer or that they need to adjust their dosage.
Considerations and Cautions
While Sudafed can be effective, it’s important to consider the potential side effects and consult with a healthcare professional before starting any medication for this purpose. Sudafed can cause side effects such as increased heart rate, insomnia, and anxiety, which may not be ideal for new mothers already facing the challenges of postpartum recovery.
Moreover, the use of Sudafed should be part of a broader strategy for drying up milk, which may include gradually reducing breastfeeding or pumping sessions, using cold compresses, and other natural remedies like cabbage leaves.
Conclusion
In summary, while Sudafed can be an effective option for drying up breast milk, it should be used judiciously and under medical guidance. The typical dosage reported by users ranges around 60 mg daily, but individual experiences may vary. Always prioritize safety and consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best approach for your specific situation.
Which medicine is best to stop breast milk?
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.
How do you dry up milk asap?
Tips for Drying Up Your Breast Milk
- Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen.
- Put cold packs on your breasts.
- Use cold cabbage leaves (wash fresh cabbage and refrigerate; pull off one leaf at a time and lay them over your breasts; keep the leaves on your skin until they get soft).
What do doctors prescribe to dry up milk?
Cabergoline
Lactation suppression
To prevent your body naturally producing breast milk after the birth of your baby, we can prescribe you a medication called Cabergoline.’);})();(function(){window.jsl.dh(‘qF9oZ-X7DcrMwPAPvY7tCA__34′,’
Does Benadryl dry up breast milk?
Remember, there are also many medications that can reduce your milk supply. For example, antihistamines like Benadryl, Zyrtec, Allegra, etc, or decongestants like Sudafed, can decrease your milk supply.
Will a clogged milk duct eventually dry up?
Will a clogged milk duct eventually dry up? A clogged duct will usually clear up in 24-48 hours, and given a breast contains four to 18 milk ducts, a few plugged ducts don’t automatically mean breast milk supply will dry up. It will simply mean less supply for a short period before more milk comes through once again.
How long does 4 hour Sudafed stay in your system?
Sudafed’s effects can usually be felt within 30 minutes of taking it, and they last for about 4 to 6 hours. The extended-release (ER) versions take longer to kick in (about 1 hour) but last for 12 to 24 hours. For most people, Sudafed fully exits the body within 1 to 4 days.
How long does it take for Sudafed to decrease milk supply?
Pseudoephedrine is secreted into breastmilk in low levels. In one study (Findlay 1984) the calculated dose that would be absorbed by the infant was very low (0.4 to 0.6% of the maternal dose). However in a study of 8 women a single 60 mg dose of pseudoephedrine reduced milk supply by 24% over a 24 hour period.
What is the best over the counter medicine to dry up breast milk?
1. Cold medicines containing pseudoephedrine
- Zyrtec-D (cetirizine/pseudoephedrine)
- Claritin-D (loratadine/pseudoephedrine)
- Allegra-D (fexofenadine/pseudoephedrine)
- Aleve-D Sinus and Cold (naproxen/pseudoephedrine)
Can babies drink breast milk after taking Sudafed?
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.
How long does engorgement last when drying up?
You may become engorged anywhere between 2 and 5 days after birth and the more intense symptoms may last anywhere between 2 and 3 days, longer if not breastfeeding.
