Is it safe to take Cepacol while breastfeeding?

Understanding the Safety of Cepacol While Breastfeeding
When it comes to managing sore throats during breastfeeding, many mothers may wonder about the safety of over-the-counter medications like Cepacol. This popular brand offers various formulations, including lozenges and sprays, designed to alleviate throat discomfort. However, the question remains: Is it safe to use Cepacol while breastfeeding?
Active Ingredients and Their Implications
Cepacol products typically contain benzocaine, a local anesthetic that helps numb the throat to relieve pain. While benzocaine is effective for temporary relief, its safety during breastfeeding is a concern. According to medical advice, small amounts of benzocaine can enter breast milk, but the concentrations are generally considered low enough not to pose significant risks to a breastfeeding infant.
However, it is essential for nursing mothers to be cautious. The general recommendation is to use Cepacol products immediately after breastfeeding or to wait until the next feeding to minimize any potential exposure to the infant. This timing can help ensure that any active ingredients have less chance of affecting the baby.
Recommendations from Health Experts
Health professionals often advise that while Cepacol can be used, it should not be the first line of defense. Alternatives such as warm salt water gargles, honey (for infants over one year), or other non-medicated throat soothers may be preferable. If a mother chooses to use Cepacol, it is crucial to monitor the infant for any unusual reactions, such as increased fussiness or changes in feeding patterns.
Moreover, some experts suggest avoiding Cepacol products that contain additional ingredients like alcohol or certain other anesthetics, which may not be safe for breastfeeding mothers.
Conclusion
In summary, while Cepacol can be used during breastfeeding, it is advisable to do so with caution. Timing the use of the medication around feeding schedules can help mitigate risks. As always, consulting with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication is the best course of action to ensure both maternal and infant safety.

Are Cepacol lozenges safe while breastfeeding?

Benzocaine cough drops or lozenges (with or without menthol) are an excellent choice for cough relief in breastfeeding mothers. Common trade names: Cepacol.

What can I take for a sore throat while breastfeeding?

Try the following to help the discomfort of a cold or a sore throat when breastfeeding:

1. Take honey and lemon mixed in hot water, or sip on other warm fluids like natural teas to keep your throat moist.
2. Gargle some salt water.
3. If you have a cough, try a cough medicine that is based on glycerine and honey.

What throat lozenges are safe while breastfeeding?

Throat lozenges containing local anaesthetic, antibacterial agents or benzydamine may be used while breastfeeding. Avoid excessive use as it may cause unwanted side effects such as diarrhoea. Gargling salt water or drinking lemon and honey products may also help to ease a sore throat.

Can you use Cepacol while breastfeeding?

Benzocaine cough drops or lozenges (with or without menthol) are an excellent choice for cough relief in breastfeeding mothers. Common trade names: Cepacol.

Is Cepacol safe to take while pregnant?

This medicine is generally considered safe during pregnancy if taken as directed. During pregnancy, you should discuss your medicine use with your doctor or pharmacist.

Who should not take Cepacol?

Don’t use Cepacol Extra Strength Sore Throat (benzocaine / menthol) if you have an allergy to pain medications that end in “caine,” such as procaine, bupivacaine, or lidocaine. These pain medications are similar to benzocaine.

Which throat lozenges are safe during pregnancy?

SORE THROAT

• Ideally, to soothe a sore throat, we recommend gargling with salt water, or sipping lemon juice with honey.
• Short term use of Betadine Gargle is generally considered safe in pregnancy.
• Throat lozenges, such as Strepsils, are safe to use in pregnancy.

Is there anything you can take for a cold while breastfeeding?

Two main OTC cough medications are considered safe to take when breastfeeding: dextromethorphan (Delsym) and guaifenesin (Mucinex, Robitussin). Dextromethorphan helps calm a cough. The amount found in breast milk after taking it is very low, so it should be safe for your baby.

What is safe to breastfeed with a cold sore?

Breastfeeding and cold sores
Cold sores occur commonly around the time of delivery, so it is important to treat cold sores aggressively to prevent transmission to a newborn baby. Aciclovir cream, aciclovir or valaciclovir tablets are all considered safe while breastfeeding.

How to treat a cold sore while breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding and cold sores
Cold sores occur commonly around the time of delivery, so it is important to treat cold sores aggressively to prevent transmission to a newborn baby. Aciclovir cream, aciclovir or valaciclovir tablets are all considered safe while breastfeeding.