Is dextromethorphan safe for breastfeeding?

Understanding Dextromethorphan and Breastfeeding Safety
Dextromethorphan, a common ingredient in many over-the-counter cough and cold medications, raises important questions regarding its safety for breastfeeding mothers and their infants. As more mothers seek relief from coughs and colds while nursing, understanding the implications of using this medication becomes crucial.
How Dextromethorphan Affects Breastfeeding
Research indicates that dextromethorphan does transfer into breast milk, but in very low concentrations. A study involving breastfeeding women who took a single dose of 30 mg of dextromethorphan found that the medication entered breast milk in small amounts, which are not expected to adversely affect nursing infants . This suggests that occasional use of dextromethorphan is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers.
However, it is essential to note that while the amounts found in breast milk are low, comprehensive studies examining the long-term effects of dextromethorphan on infants—particularly regarding behavior or learning issues—are lacking. This gap in research means that while immediate effects may be minimal, the potential for unknown long-term consequences remains.
Recommendations for Use
Health professionals often advise caution when using any medication while breastfeeding. Although dextromethorphan is frequently associated with other medications that are deemed compatible with breastfeeding, it is recommended to avoid products that contain high levels of alcohol or multiple active ingredients. The general consensus is that while dextromethorphan itself is not likely to harm a breastfeeding infant, mothers should always consult with healthcare providers before starting any new medication.
Conclusion
In summary, dextromethorphan appears to be safe for breastfeeding mothers when used occasionally and in recommended doses. The low levels found in breast milk suggest minimal risk to infants, but the absence of extensive research on long-term effects warrants a cautious approach. Mothers should prioritize open communication with their healthcare providers to ensure both their health and the well-being of their children.

Who Cannot take dextromethorphan?

Before taking dextromethorphan,
tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the following medications or have stopped taking them within the past two weeks: monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam, Zelapar), and tranylcypromine (Parnate).

Is dextromethorphan ok during pregnancy?

Dextromethorphan Pregnancy Warnings
Anti-tussive use during pregnancy has not been reported to increase the risk of teratogenic effects.

What cough drops can I use while breastfeeding?

Cough Meds: Dextromethorphan (DM) is okay to use while nursing. Breastfed babies should be watched for sleepiness or poor feeding. Cough drops and honey are safe to use by moms for a cough. (Caution: Do not give honey to infants less than 1 year old).

Does dextromethorphan affect breast milk?

For a dry cough, a cough suppressant such as pholcodine or dextromethorphan is considered safe while breastfeeding. A dry, irritating cough is usually associated with a postnasal drip.

What cough suppressant is safe while breastfeeding?

Since triprolidine and pseudoephedrine are also considered compatible with breastfeeding by the AAP, these 2 drugs should be the first-line choices. Codeine is considered compatible with breastfeeding by the AAP, and would be an acceptable choice for short-term use as a cough suppressant.

What drugs don’t go into breast milk?

Table. Examples of drugs contraindicated in breastfeeding.

Drug	Comment
Iodine	High doses (>150 micrograms daily) lead to risk of infant hypothyroidism
Lithium	Breastfeeding only feasible with rigorous monitoring
Radiopharmaceuticals	Contact obstetric information service
Retinoids (oral)	Potential for serious adverse effects

What is the best decongestant to dry up breast milk?

The cold medication pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) may help reduce milk production. Researchers found that participants who took the pseudoephedrine had a significant reduction in breastmilk production compared to the participants who took a placebo (a pill that looks like medication but contains no medication).

How can I control my cough while breastfeeding?

Products containing dextromethorphan will calm a dry cough. You can take these whilst breastfeeding, but you should avoid them if there is any phlegm on your chest. Suppressing a chesty cough could cause a chest infection, particularly if you are asthmatic.

Will Robitussin DM dry up my milk supply?

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).

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.