What cold medicine is safe for breastfeeding?

Understanding Cold Medicine Safety for Breastfeeding Mothers
Navigating the world of cold medications while breastfeeding can be a daunting task for new mothers. With concerns about the health of their infants, many nursing moms wonder which over-the-counter (OTC) options are safe to use. Fortunately, there are several medications that are generally considered safe, allowing mothers to find relief without compromising their baby’s well-being.
Safe Cold Medications
According to the National Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed), dextromethorphan, a common ingredient in cough syrups, is deemed safe for breastfeeding mothers and their babies. This medication is primarily used to suppress coughs and does not pose significant risks when taken in recommended doses.
Additionally, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) supports the notion that most OTC cold medications are safe for breastfeeding mothers. However, it is crucial to note that while many options are available, not all medications are suitable. For instance, medications that dry mucus, such as certain decongestants, should be approached with caution as they may affect milk supply.
Medications to Avoid
While many cold medications are safe, some should be avoided. For example, products containing codeine can be particularly risky. Codeine is metabolized differently in individuals, and some may convert it to morphine at higher rates, which can lead to dangerous levels in breast milk. Other medications, such as NyQuil, Benadryl, and Sudafed, are also advised against due to their potential side effects on both the mother and the infant.
Consultation is Key
It is always wise for breastfeeding mothers to consult with healthcare providers before taking any medication. This ensures that they are informed about the risks and benefits associated with specific cold remedies. Healthcare professionals can provide personalized advice based on individual health needs and the specific symptoms being treated.
Conclusion
In summary, while many cold medications are safe for breastfeeding mothers, it is essential to choose wisely. Dextromethorphan is a safe option for cough relief, while caution should be exercised with decongestants and certain other medications. Always consult with a healthcare provider to ensure the best choices for both mother and baby, allowing nursing moms to recover from colds without unnecessary worry.

Can I take vitamin C while breastfeeding?

The recommended vitamin C intake in lactating women is 120 mg daily, and for infants aged 6 months or less is 40 mg daily. [1] High daily doses up to 1000 mg increase milk levels, but not enough to cause a health concern for the breastfed infant and is not a reason to discontinue breastfeeding.

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.

Is it safe to take Mucinex 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.

Is Tylenol cold and Flu ok 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 brands of cold medicine are safe for breastfeeding?

Options like Robitussin, Delsym, Triaminic and Vicks DayQuil Cough are unlikely to affect your supply and have no reported infant side effects. Pseudoephedrine. Another cold medicine safe for breastfeeding moms and their little ones is pseudoephedrine, the active ingredient in Sudafed and Allegra D.

What can I take for a cold while breastfeeding fast?

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.

What to do if a breastfeeding mother has a cold?

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 is the safest decongestant for 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.

Is emergen C safe for 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.

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.