What can you take while breastfeeding for a cold?

Navigating Cold Remedies While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding mothers often face the dilemma of managing a cold while ensuring the safety of their infants. The good news is that many cold medications are considered safe for nursing mothers, but caution is still advised. Here’s a detailed look at what you can take to alleviate cold symptoms without compromising your breastfeeding journey.
Safe Medications for Cold Symptoms
When it comes to over-the-counter (OTC) medications, many options are available that are generally deemed safe for breastfeeding mothers. Pain relievers such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen can be used to relieve discomfort associated with colds, including headaches and body aches. These medications do not significantly affect breast milk and are unlikely to harm your baby.
Nonsedating antihistamines are also a viable option for managing symptoms like a runny nose or sneezing. These medications are less likely to cause drowsiness in both the mother and the infant, making them a preferred choice. However, it’s essential to avoid antihistamines that can cause sedation, as they may lead to irritability in infants and potentially reduce milk supply.
Herbal Supplements and Alternatives
Some mothers may consider herbal remedies, such as Elderberry, which is known for its potential to shorten the duration of cold symptoms. While Elderberry is likely safe for breastfeeding, there is limited research on its effects on milk production and infants. Therefore, if you choose to use herbal supplements, it’s wise to consult with a healthcare provider first.
Additionally, cough drops and throat sprays like Chloraseptic are generally safe to use while breastfeeding. These can provide localized relief without significant risk to your milk supply or your baby.
What to Avoid
While many medications are safe, certain cold remedies should be avoided. Alcohol-based medications, as well as products containing pseudoephedrine, can lead to a decrease in milk supply and may cause irritability in infants. Other medications like NyQuil and Benadryl are also not recommended due to their sedative effects.
Breastfeeding While Sick
It’s important to note that breastfeeding while sick is generally safe. Viruses like the common cold do not pass into breast milk, meaning that you can continue to nurse your baby without concern for transmitting the illness. In fact, breastfeeding can provide your infant with antibodies that may help protect them from illness.
Conclusion
In summary, while managing a cold as a breastfeeding mother can be challenging, there are safe options available to alleviate symptoms. Pain relievers, nonsedating antihistamines, cough drops, and herbal supplements like Elderberry can be effective. However, it’s crucial to avoid certain medications that may affect milk supply or cause sedation. Always consult with a healthcare professional if you have any doubts or specific health concerns. Remember, taking care of yourself is essential for both you and your baby!

What decongestant is safe while breastfeeding?

Afrin (oxymetazoline) nasal spray is a nasal decongestant that can be used safely while breastfeeding. Because the medicine is not absorbed well from the nasal passages, it doesn’t have the same effect on milk supply that decongestants taken by mouth can have.

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.

Can I take Tylenol cold and flu when 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 DayQuil dry up breast milk?

Other medications, like phenylephrine and pseudoephedrine, can hinder milk production and cause irritability or other side effects in babies. Avoid products sold under the brand names Benedryl, Sudafed, NyQuil, and DayQuil while lactating.

How do you treat a cold in a breastfed baby?

Self care

1. Offer plenty of fluids. Liquids are important to avoid dehydration.
2. Suction your baby’s nose. Keep your baby’s nasal passages clear with a rubber-bulb syringe.
3. Try nasal saline drops. Your baby’s doctor may recommend saline nasal drops to moisten nasal passages and loosen thick nasal mucus.
4. Moisten the air.

Will my baby catch my cold if I breastfeed?

With most common illnesses like a cold or flu, it is safe to continue breastfeeding your baby as long as you take proper hygiene precautions like handwashing. Continuing to breastfeed will help you to maintain your milk supply and will provide your baby with protection against the illness you are experiencing.

What can I take for a cold while 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).

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.

What is the safest antihistamine while breastfeeding?

Non-sedating antihistamines are the preferred choice for a breastfeeding mother:

• Loratadine (Clarityn®) (Powell 2007, Hilbert 1997),
• Cetirizine (Zirtek®, BecoAllergy®, Piriteze®, Benadryl®) reaches low levels in breastmilk and is recommended by the British Society for Allergy and Clinical Immunology (Powell 2007)

Is Mucinex safe for 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.