What can you take for a sore throat when breastfeeding?

Understanding Sore Throats During Breastfeeding
For breastfeeding mothers, experiencing a sore throat can be both uncomfortable and concerning. Fortunately, there are several safe and effective remedies available that can help alleviate the discomfort without compromising the health of the nursing infant.
Safe Medications for Relief
When it comes to over-the-counter options, paracetamol (acetaminophen) and ibuprofen are commonly recommended pain relievers that are safe to use while breastfeeding. These medications can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with a sore throat. They are often suggested by healthcare professionals, especially if the sore throat is accompanied by other symptoms like fever or body aches.
In addition to these pain relievers, throat sprays and lozenges can provide localized relief. Products such as Strepsils® and Ultra-Chloraseptic throat spray® are generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. While there is limited data on their effects on breastfed infants, they have been used widely without significant concerns.
Home Remedies and Additional Tips
Beyond medications, several home remedies can also be effective. A saltwater gargle is a simple yet effective method to soothe a sore throat. Mixing 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of salt in an 8-ounce glass of warm water and gargling can provide temporary relief.
Staying hydrated is crucial, so drinking plenty of fluids, such as warm teas or broths, can help keep the throat moist and alleviate discomfort. Additionally, using a humidifier in your living space can add moisture to the air, which may ease throat irritation.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While most sore throats are minor and can be managed with these remedies, it’s important for breastfeeding mothers to monitor their symptoms. If the sore throat persists, worsens, or is accompanied by severe symptoms such as high fever or difficulty swallowing, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. They can provide tailored advice and may prescribe additional treatments if necessary.
In summary, breastfeeding mothers have a variety of safe options to manage sore throats, from over-the-counter pain relievers to home remedies. By taking appropriate measures, mothers can find relief while ensuring their breastfeeding journey continues smoothly.

What medicine can I take for a sore throat while breastfeeding?

Sore throat
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 I breastfeed if I have a sore throat?

If you have a cold or a sore throat, you should still continue to breastfeed your baby. Doing so will pass on immunity cells so that your baby can fight this specific infection.

What medicine is OK to take for a cold while breastfeeding?

Safe cold medicine while breastfeeding
In general, pseudoephedrine, dextromethorphan, NSAID pain relievers, acetaminophen, and second-generation allergy medications such as Zyrtec and Claritin are considered safe options for treating cold symptoms while breastfeeding. Dr.

Is DayQuil safe for breastfeeding?

Most cold medicines are safe while breastfeeding, especially if you take them short term and only when you need them. Some of the medications that are safe include: Expectorants that contain guaifenesin (Mucinex®, Robitussin® and others). Cough suppressants that contain dextromethorphan (DayQuil®, Delsym® and others).

Can I take Tylenol cold and Flu while 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.

What is the safest antihistamine while breastfeeding?

Cold and allergy meds that are safe while breastfeeding include: Cetirizine (Zyrtec) and loratadine (Claritin) are the recommended antihistamines when breastfeeding. Other antihistamines are also considered safe but do not have as much research to support this. These include Allegra and Xyzal.

What cold sore medication is safe 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.

Can you take Halls lozenges while breastfeeding?

Most lozenges with menthol are safe for nursing moms because very little makes it into the milk supply. However, menthol is derived from peppermint oil, which may reduce milk supply in some women. It’s probably best to avoid consuming large amounts of peppermint or menthol cough drops.

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.

Are there any breastfeeding friendly throat lozenges?

You can use lozenges, pastilles and throat sprays (e.g. Strepsils®, Ultra-Chloraseptic throat spray®, Difflam®) when you are breastfeeding, to relieve your symptoms. There is very little data on whether these products affect breastfed infants, but they have been used extensively without reports of problems.