Is Excedrin safe to use while breastfeeding?

Is Excedrin Safe to Use While Breastfeeding?
When it comes to managing pain during breastfeeding, many mothers may wonder about the safety of medications like Excedrin. This popular over-the-counter pain reliever contains a combination of acetaminophen, aspirin, and caffeine, each of which has different implications for breastfeeding mothers and their infants.
Acetaminophen and Breastfeeding
Acetaminophen, one of the primary ingredients in Excedrin, is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. Research indicates that it passes into breast milk in small amounts, but these levels are typically not harmful to infants when the medication is used as directed. This makes acetaminophen a common recommendation for pain relief during lactation.
Aspirin and Salicylic Acid Concerns
Aspirin, another component of Excedrin, raises more concerns. While salicylic acid, a metabolite of aspirin, does appear in human milk, it is present in comparatively low amounts. Studies suggest that the daily use of a low-dose aspirin (such as 81 mg) is likely safe during lactation. However, higher doses or prolonged use may pose risks, particularly due to potential effects on the infant’s development and health.
Caffeine’s Impact on Infants
Caffeine, the third ingredient in Excedrin, can also pass into breast milk. While moderate caffeine consumption is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers, excessive intake may affect an infant’s sleep patterns and overall well-being. Therefore, mothers should be cautious about their total caffeine consumption, especially if they are taking Excedrin.
Consulting Healthcare Professionals
Given the complexities surrounding the use of Excedrin while breastfeeding, it is crucial for mothers to consult healthcare professionals before starting any medication. Health experts can provide personalized advice based on individual health needs and the specific circumstances of the breastfeeding mother.
In summary, while acetaminophen is typically safe, the presence of aspirin and caffeine in Excedrin necessitates careful consideration. Mothers should weigh the benefits of pain relief against potential risks to their infants and seek professional guidance to ensure the best outcomes for both themselves and their babies.

Which painkiller should be avoided during breastfeeding?

Codeine and dihydrocodeine are weak opioids that are available over the counter in combination with other medications described above. Codeine is not recommended when you are breastfeeding.

What pain reliever is OK for breastfeeding?

You can take paracetamol and ibuprofen together during breastfeeding if needed, up to their maximum daily doses. If your baby needs to take ibuprofen suspension (e.g. Nurofen for Children®) whilst you are taking ibuprofen, they can do so at their own full and normal dose.

Can I have Excedrin while breastfeeding?

Headache Medications to Avoid When Breastfeeding
Aspirin: Don’t take aspirin or aspirin-containing products when you’re breastfeeding because the drug can cause adverse effects in your baby. Remember that there’s often aspirin in over-the-counter headache medications like Excedrin and Excedrin Migraine.

What’s the difference between Excedrin and Excedrin Migraine?

Excedrin Migraine is meant to relieve pain associated with headaches and migraines. Excedrin Extra Strength is more versatile and is generally used to relieve minor aches and pains related to various causes. For this reason, their labeling and dosing recommendations are different.

Can I take Excedrin Extra Strength while pregnant?

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or if you plan to become pregnant. This medication may harm an unborn baby and cause problems with normal labor/delivery. It is not recommended for use in pregnancy from 20 weeks until delivery.

Which headache medicine is safe during breastfeeding?

What medications are safe to take while breastfeeding?

• Acetaminophen (Tylenol, others)
• Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others)
• Naproxen sodium (Aleve, Anaprox DS, others) — short-term use only.

How do you treat a lactating migraine?

The preferred method of treatment for migraine is non-pharmacological therapy, followed by prenatal counseling. Sumatriptan and acetaminophen are both effective treatments for transient migraine attacks that occur during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Which drug is usually avoided with breastfeeding?

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 can I take for postpartum headache?

Treatment for postpartum headaches is similar to treatment for any other headaches. Options include: Taking headache medicine: Medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) and over-the-counter NSAIDs (ibuprofen and naproxen sodium) can help ease headache symptoms.

What can I take for a headache while breastfeeding?

Women with migraine may be concerned about breastfeeding due to fears of exposing the baby to medication. However, many medications can be safely taken during breastfeeding, including acetaminophen (Tylenol), anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen (Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve), and sumatriptan (Imitrex).