What can you take for a cough while breastfeeding?

Understanding Cough Relief While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding mothers often face the challenge of managing common ailments like coughs without compromising their health or that of their infants. Fortunately, there are several options available that are considered safe for nursing mothers.
Safe Medications for Cough Relief
When it comes to over-the-counter medications, dextromethorphan is a widely recommended cough suppressant that is deemed safe for breastfeeding mothers. Products such as Robitussin, Delsym, and Vicks DayQuil Cough contain this ingredient and are unlikely to affect milk supply or cause adverse effects in infants.
Another effective option is guaifenesin, an expectorant found in medications like Mucinex. This drug helps thin mucus, making it easier to expel, and while it hasn’t been extensively studied in breast milk, it is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers.
For those who prefer non-medicated options, benzocaine cough drops or lozenges are also a good choice. Due to their low absorption into the bloodstream, they are unlikely to produce significant effects in breastfed infants.
General Guidelines and Precautions
While many cough medications are safe, it is crucial for breastfeeding mothers to consult with healthcare professionals before starting any new medication. This ensures that any potential risks are assessed based on individual health circumstances.
Additionally, while herbal remedies may seem appealing, they are often poorly studied, making it difficult to determine their safety during breastfeeding. Therefore, it is generally advisable to avoid these supplements unless specifically recommended by a healthcare provider.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers have access to a variety of safe options for managing coughs, including dextromethorphan and guaifenesin. Non-medicated alternatives like benzocaine lozenges can also provide relief. However, consulting with a healthcare professional remains essential to ensure the safety and well-being of both mother and child.

What cough drops can I use while breastfeeding?

Cough Meds: Dextromethorphan (DM) is okay to use while nursing. Breastfed babies should be watched for sleepiness or poor feeding. Cough drops and honey are safe to use by moms for a cough. (Caution: Do not give honey to infants less than 1 year old).

Why is Zyrtec not recommended while breastfeeding?

Zyrtec, although generally safe, is not recommended during breastfeeding because it passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. Possible side effects on the baby include irritation or lethargy. Always consult your healthcare provider before taking any medication while breastfeeding.

What is the nursing care plan for cough?

The nursing care plan addresses a patient experiencing coughing and fatigue. The plan includes assessing the patient’s response to activity and interventions, providing a quiet environment and limiting visitors, elevating the head and encouraging position changes and deep breathing.

Is Tylenol cough and cold safe for breastfeeding?

Many medicines are safe to use when you breastfeed. These include: Pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin). Some cold and influenza (flu) medicines.

Will Mucinex dry up milk supply?

Neela. “Just as they dry up your nasal congestion, they can also dry up your breast milk.

Can I take Robitussin while breastfeeding?

The expectorant guaifenesin and the cough suppressant dextromethorphan are often found together in products like Mucinex DM or Robitussin DM. Both of these medications have been used while breastfeeding. Small, occasional doses of antihistamines are acceptable while nursing.

What cough medicine can you take while breastfeeding?

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

Can you take little coughs while breastfeeding?

Can Little Dry Coughs be taken while pregnant or breastfeeding? The use of Iceland Moss has not been tested with pregnant or breastfeeding women. Therefore we cannot recommend the use of Little Dry Coughs during pregnancy or breastfeeding. We recommend that you consult with your health professional before use.

What is the most safe antihistamine while breastfeeding?

Zyrtec (cetirizine) is the preferred antihistamine when breastfeeding. Other second-generation antihistamines are also considered safe, but do not have as much research to support their use. These include Allegra (fexofenadine), Claritin (loratidine), and Xyzal (levocetirizine).

How can a nursing mother treat a cough?

Anaesthetic sprays, lozenges or pastilles to soothe coughs and sore throats. You can use lozenges, pastilles and throat sprays (e.g. Strepsils®, Ultra-Chloraseptic throat spray®, Difflam®) when you are breastfeeding, to relieve your symptoms.