Is Zicam safe for nursing mothers?

Understanding Zicam and Its Safety for Nursing Mothers
Zicam, a popular over-the-counter cold remedy, has garnered attention for its effectiveness in alleviating cold symptoms. However, for nursing mothers, the question of safety is paramount. As of now, the consensus on Zicam’s use during lactation is mixed, and caution is advised.
Safety Profile of Zicam for Nursing MothersZicam and Nursing Mothers
The safety of Zicam for nursing mothers is a complex issue with mixed evidence:
– Zicam contains zinc, which is generally considered safe for nursing mothers in moderate amounts. However, excessive zinc supplementation should be avoided, especially in the first month postpartum.
– Some research indicates Zicam may cause moderate to no side effects in breastfeeding mothers and their babies. However, the FDA has received over 130 reports of decreased sense of smell after using certain Zicam products.
– In 2006, the maker of Zicam paid $12 million to settle lawsuits from users who claimed the product destroyed their sense of smell. This raises concerns about potential safety issues with Zicam.
– The FDA has not officially approved Zicam, as it is a homeopathic medication not subject to the same rigorous safety testing as over-the-counter drugs.
Overall, the evidence on the safety of Zicam for nursing mothers is mixed. Nursing mothers should consult their healthcare provider before using Zicam or any other medication, and monitor for any adverse effects in themselves or their babies. Caution is advised, especially with prolonged or high-dose use of Zicam during breastfeeding.

Is emergen C safe to take 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.

Is Zicam safe for babies?

Herbal and alternative cold products such as vitamin C (Emergen-C, Airborne) or zinc (Zicam) are not recommended for use in children. If your child is younger than 2 years old, talk to your doctor before giving them an OTC product.

Is it safe to take Zicam while pregnant?

The current nasal Zicam products do not use zinc because of the potential for serious side effects—instead, the nasal formulas are plant-based. Zicam is marketed to be used by adults and children over age 12. Younger children should not use Zicam products and you should not use them if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.

Can a breastfeeding mom take Zicam?

Zicam contains small amounts of zinc (Zincum Gluconicum) – 266 micrograms per squirt; in one study (Mossad 2003) the daily dosage used was 2.1 mg per day. Zinc is considered compatible with breastfeeding, particularly in small amounts (excessive amounts are not a good idea, for mom’s sake rather than baby’s).

What can I take for head congestion while breastfeeding?

It is recommended that breastfeeding women AVOID decongestant tablets, powders or drinks. Decongestant nasal sprays containing xylometazoline, oxymetazoline are effective in relieving nasal congestion but do not produce wakefulness nor reduce milk supply.

What is safe to take for a head 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.

How does zinc affect babies?

Zinc is important for cellular growth, cellular differentiation and metabolism and deficiency limits childhood growth and decreases resistance to infections. Although severe zinc deficiency is rare in humans, mild to moderate deficiency may be common worldwide.

Can cold virus pass through breast milk?

If you have a cold or flu, fever, diarrhoea and vomiting, or mastitis, keep breastfeeding as normal. Your baby won’t catch the illness through your breast milk – in fact, it will contain antibodies to reduce her risk of getting the same bug. “Not only is it safe, breastfeeding while sick is a good idea.

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.

Is it OK to take zinc while breastfeeding?

Zinc is a normal component in human milk. Typical daily doses of 15 mg or less of oral zinc from prenatal vitamins or other multimineral supplements do not alter milk zinc levels in lactating women. Mothers may therefore take zinc supplementation during lactation to achieve the recommended daily intake of 12 to 13 mg.