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Is Advil cold and sinus ok for breastfeeding?

Understanding Advil Cold and Sinus for Breastfeeding Mothers
When it comes to managing cold and sinus symptoms while breastfeeding, many mothers find themselves in a dilemma about the safety of over-the-counter medications like Advil Cold and Sinus. This combination medication typically contains ibuprofen, a pain reliever, and phenylephrine, a nasal decongestant.
Safety Concerns
The primary concern for breastfeeding mothers considering Advil Cold and Sinus is the potential impact on milk supply and the infant. According to health experts, while ibuprofen is generally considered safe during breastfeeding, the phenylephrine component can pose risks. It has been noted that phenylephrine may lead to decreased milk production, which is a significant concern for nursing mothers.
Moreover, some anecdotal reports suggest that taking Advil Cold and Sinus could lead to other side effects in infants, although specific adverse effects are not extensively documented. This uncertainty can understandably cause anxiety among mothers who want to ensure their babies are not adversely affected by any medication they take.
Recommendations from Experts
Health professionals often recommend that breastfeeding mothers should be cautious with any medication, including Advil Cold and Sinus. While some over-the-counter cold remedies are deemed safe, the combination of ingredients in this particular medication raises red flags. Experts suggest that if a mother feels the need to take this medication, she should consider alternatives that are less likely to affect milk supply, such as acetaminophen for pain relief.
Additionally, if a mother does choose to take Advil Cold and Sinus, it may be advisable to pump and dump for a short period to minimize any potential exposure to the infant, although this practice is not universally recommended and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Conclusion
In summary, while Advil Cold and Sinus may provide relief for cold and sinus symptoms, breastfeeding mothers should approach its use with caution. The potential for decreased milk supply and the unknown effects on infants necessitate a careful consideration of alternatives. Consulting with a healthcare professional can provide personalized guidance and help ensure both mother and baby remain healthy during cold season.

Can I take Tylenol cold and sinus while breastfeeding?

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

Can I take Tylenol cold and Sinus while breastfeeding?

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

What can I use for sinuses while breastfeeding?

Corticosteroid nasal sprays containing beclomethasone and budesonide are considered safe to use during breastfeeding. Decongestant nasal sprays containing oxymetazoline, xylometazoline or tramazoline may be used if corticosteroid and antihistamine nasal sprays have not relieved the symptoms.

Who should not take Advil cold and Sinus?

Those with certain medical conditions should avoid taking Advil to treat sinus infections, particularly those who suffer from liver disease, heart disease, severe high blood pressure, Raynaud’s Syndrome, Crohn’s disease, or angioedema syndrome.

Can I take Advil cold and sinus while pregnant?

If pregnant or breast-feeding, ask a health professional before use. It is especially important not to use ibuprofen at 20 weeks or later in pregnancy unless definitely directed to do so by a doctor because it may cause problems in the unborn child or complications during delivery.

What cold and sinus medications are safe while breastfeeding?

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).

Can you take ibuprofen cold and flu while breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding when you have a cold:
Ensure you rest and drink plenty of fluids (eg: water or juice) • Use good hygiene practices to minimise the spread of infection to others • Treat symptoms as for pregnancy • Avoid the use of aspirin for pain or fever but ibuprofen is safe in breastfeeding.

Can I take Tylenol cold and sinus if breastfeeding?

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

Can I take Advil cold and Sinus while breastfeeding?

It’s safe to use most over-the-counter cold medicines, such as pain-relievers, nasal sprays, and antihistamines, while breastfeeding.

What cold medicine won’t affect my milk supply?

Options like Robitussin, Delsym, Triaminic and Vicks DayQuil Cough are unlikely to affect your supply and have no reported infant side effects. Pseudoephedrine. Another cold medicine safe for breastfeeding moms and their little ones is pseudoephedrine, the active ingredient in Sudafed and Allegra D.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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