Is it safe to take benzonatate while breastfeeding?

Understanding Benzonatate and Breastfeeding Safety
Benzonatate, commonly known by its brand name Tessalon Pearles, is a medication used to relieve cough. However, its safety during breastfeeding is a topic of concern among healthcare professionals and nursing mothers alike.
The Risks and Considerations
The primary issue with Benzonatate is that it is not well-studied in breastfeeding contexts. According to the available information, it is not known if benzonatate passes into breast milk, which raises questions about its potential effects on a nursing infant. The lack of definitive research means that the risks associated with its use during lactation cannot be fully assessed.
Healthcare providers often emphasize the importance of weighing the benefits against the risks when considering any medication during breastfeeding. While many cough medications are deemed safe, Benzonatate is viewed with caution. Some experts suggest that it may not be worth the risk, especially since there are alternative medications that are known to be safer for breastfeeding mothers.
Expert Opinions
Dr. Hale, a noted authority on medications and breastfeeding, has indicated that Benzonatate is likely not safe for nursing mothers. He suggests that the medication’s efficacy is questionable, and alternatives like codeine may provide better relief without the same level of concern regarding safety. Furthermore, the potential for severe toxicity in children if they accidentally ingest the medication is a significant reason for caution.
Recommendations for Nursing Mothers
Given the uncertainties surrounding Benzonatate, it is generally recommended that breastfeeding mothers consult their healthcare provider before taking this medication. The decision should be made collaboratively, considering the specific health needs of the mother and the potential risks to the infant.
In summary, while Benzonatate may be effective for cough relief, its safety during breastfeeding remains uncertain. The prevailing advice is to explore safer alternatives and to engage in thorough discussions with healthcare professionals to ensure the well-being of both mother and child.

Is benzonatate safe in pregnancy?

Not preferred due to limited data: Benzonatate: Benzonatate is a prescription cough medication. Safe use of benzonatate during pregnancy has been described, but there is minimal data on the safety of benzonatate during pregnancy. Other medications with more evidence for safety during pregnancy may be more ideal.

What can you take for a cough while breastfeeding?

For a dry cough, a cough suppressant such as pholcodine or dextromethorphan is considered safe while breastfeeding.

Who should avoid benzonatate?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• Kidney or liver disease.
• An unusual or allergic reaction to benzonatate, anesthetics, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives.
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
• Breast-feeding.

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.

How can I stop my baby from coughing while breastfeeding?

Make sure your breasts are not engorged or over-full.
If your baby is pulling off and gagging or coughing during feeding, sit your baby up in a seated burp position. Gently pat your baby’s back to help your little one calm down before you continue feeding.

Is benzonatate OK in pregnancy?

Not preferred due to limited data: Benzonatate: Benzonatate is a prescription cough medication. Safe use of benzonatate during pregnancy has been described, but there is minimal data on the safety of benzonatate during pregnancy. Other medications with more evidence for safety during pregnancy may be more ideal.

Does benzonatate affect breastfeeding?

While there is low to minimal transfer of benzonatate into breastmilk, the Infant Risk Center recommends avoiding this medication when possible because benzonatate can be very dangerous if taken directly by a child and cause severe toxicity at relatively low doses.

Is benzonatate better than Mucinex for cough?

Comparing Benzonatate vs Mucinex
Benzonatate has an average rating of 4.1 out of 10 from a total of 773 ratings on Drugs.com. 31% of reviewers reported a positive effect, while 62% reported a negative effect. Mucinex has an average rating of 6.2 out of 10 from a total of 154 ratings on Drugs.com.

What drugs should be avoided during lactation?

Drugs contraindicated during breastfeeding include anticancer drugs, lithium, oral retinoids, iodine, amiodarone and gold salts. An understanding of the principles underlying the transfer into breast milk is important, as is an awareness of the potential adverse effects on the infant.

What are nursing considerations for benzonatate?

Women who are breastfeeding: Benzonatate may pass into breast milk and may cause side effects in a child who is breastfed. Talk to your doctor if you breastfeed your child. You may need to decide whether to stop breastfeeding or stop taking this medication.