Is it safe to take alka seltzer plus while breastfeeding?

Understanding Alka-Seltzer Plus and Breastfeeding Safety
As a nursing mother, the safety of any medication you consider taking is paramount, especially when it comes to over-the-counter products like Alka-Seltzer Plus. This popular remedy is often used to alleviate symptoms of colds, allergies, and other ailments, but its ingredients raise important questions regarding their effects on breastfeeding infants.
Ingredients and Their Implications
Alka-Seltzer Plus typically contains a combination of acetaminophen (paracetamol), antihistamines, and sometimes aspirin or caffeine. Each of these components has different implications for breastfeeding mothers.
1. Acetaminophen: Generally considered safe during breastfeeding, acetaminophen is commonly used for pain relief and fever reduction. Research indicates that it passes into breast milk in small amounts, but it is not known to cause harm to infants when taken in recommended doses.
2. Antihistamines: These can vary in their safety profiles. Some antihistamines are known to cause sedation in both mothers and infants, which could potentially affect breastfeeding. If the baby is older than one month, the risks are generally lower, but caution is still advised.
3. Aspirin: If included in the formulation, aspirin is typically not recommended for breastfeeding mothers due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome in children, a rare but serious condition.
4. Caffeine: While caffeine can also pass into breast milk, moderate consumption is usually considered safe. However, excessive intake may lead to irritability or sleep disturbances in infants.
Recommendations for Nursing Mothers
Given the potential risks associated with some ingredients in Alka-Seltzer Plus, it is advisable for breastfeeding mothers to consult with a healthcare provider before taking this medication. The age of the infant, the mother’s overall health, and the specific formulation of Alka-Seltzer being considered are all critical factors in determining safety.
For mothers with infants older than one month, the consensus is that occasional use of Alka-Seltzer Plus may not pose significant risks, particularly if the mother has a good milk supply and monitors her baby’s reactions. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, seeking alternative treatments or professional medical advice is recommended.
Conclusion
In summary, while Alka-Seltzer Plus can provide relief for common ailments, its use during breastfeeding should be approached with caution. The safety of its ingredients varies, and individual circumstances play a crucial role in determining whether it is appropriate for nursing mothers. Always prioritize open communication with healthcare professionals to ensure the well-being of both mother and child.

What’s the difference between Alka-Seltzer and alka seltzer plus?

Alka-Seltzer is marketed for relief of minor aches, pains, inflammation, fever, headache, heartburn, stomach ache, indigestion, acid reflux, and hangovers while neutralizing excess stomach acid. It was launched in 1931. Its sister product, Alka-Seltzer Plus, treats cold and flu symptoms.

What medications should be avoided while breastfeeding?

Common medicines that are not recommended when you’re breastfeeding include:

• codeine phosphate.
• decongestants that come as tablets, liquids or powders that you swallow.
• some nasal decongestants that come as nose sprays or drops – check with a GP or pharmacist before using them.
• aspirin for pain relief.

What drinks to avoid when breastfeeding?

Foods and drinks to avoid while breastfeeding
Caffeine passes into breastmilk, so large amounts of tea, coffee and cola drinks are best avoided. Drinking small amounts of drinks with caffeine (3 or less drinks a day) should not be a problem. Alcohol also passes into breastmilk and can affect your baby.

What can you take while breastfeeding for a cold?

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

Can I take Alka Seltzer plus while pregnant?

Is Alka Seltzer safe to take while pregnant? Alka Seltzer is an over-the-counter medicine frequently used to treat heartburn. However, an active ingredient in many Alka Seltzer products is aspirin, which should be avoided by pregnant patients unless prescribed by your provider to treat other medical issues.

Can I take emergen C while breastfeeding?

Yes, you can take Emergen-C while breastfeeding, but it’s important to not exceed the recommended dosage. Emergen-C is a supplement rich in vitamin C, often used for boosting immune health. However, while vitamin C is crucial for both you and your baby, consuming it in large amounts can cause digestive upset.

Who should not take alka seltzer plus?

If you have any of the following health problems, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this medication: breathing problems (such as asthma, emphysema), diabetes, glaucoma, heart problems, high blood pressure, kidney problems, liver disease, seizures, stomach/intestinal problems (such as blockage, constipation …

Can I take alka seltzer plus while pregnant?

Is Alka Seltzer safe to take while pregnant? Alka Seltzer is an over-the-counter medicine frequently used to treat heartburn. However, an active ingredient in many Alka Seltzer products is aspirin, which should be avoided by pregnant patients unless prescribed by your provider to treat other medical issues.

How do you treat a cold in a breastfed baby?

Self care

1. Offer plenty of fluids. Liquids are important to avoid dehydration.
2. Suction your baby’s nose. Keep your baby’s nasal passages clear with a rubber-bulb syringe.
3. Try nasal saline drops. Your baby’s doctor may recommend saline nasal drops to moisten nasal passages and loosen thick nasal mucus.
4. Moisten the air.

Does alka seltzer affect breast milk?

Pain Relivers to Avoid While Breastfeeding
On the pain-reliever front, it may be a good idea to avoid aspirin (Excedrin), aspirin-containing meds (like Alka Seltzer), and naproxen (Aleve) as well.