What cold meds are OK for breastfeeding moms?

Understanding Cold Medications for Breastfeeding Moms
Navigating the world of cold medications while breastfeeding can be daunting for new mothers. With concerns about the safety of various drugs for both the nursing mother and her infant, it’s essential to know which options are considered safe and effective.
Safe Cold Medications
Over-the-Counter Options
Many over-the-counter (OTC) cold medications are generally deemed safe for breastfeeding mothers. Non-drowsy antihistamines, such as loratadine (Claritin) and cetirizine (Zyrtec), are often recommended as they have minimal effects on milk supply and are unlikely to harm the baby. Additionally, ibuprofen (Motrin) is a preferred choice for pain relief and inflammation, as it is processed quickly by the body and does not linger in breast milk.
Pseudoephedrine
Another common medication is pseudoephedrine, found in products like Sudafed and Allegra D. While it can lead to a slight decrease in milk production, this is typically not significant unless used over an extended period. Therefore, occasional use is generally considered safe.
Caution with Certain Medications
While many medications are safe, some require caution. For instance, codeine and similar opioids should be avoided if possible, as they can pose risks to breastfeeding infants, particularly if the mother metabolizes the drug rapidly.
Homeopathic Remedies
Homeopathic options, such as Oscillococcinum, are available but have shown limited effectiveness in treating cold symptoms. Moreover, there is insufficient research on their impact on breastfeeding.
Nasal Sprays and Other Treatments
For those suffering fromBreastfeeding and Cold Medications
When breastfeeding, it’s important to be cautious about the medications you take, as some can pass into your breast milk and potentially affect your baby. However, there are several cold medications that are generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers:
Decongestants: Pseudoephedrine, the active ingredient in Sudafed and Allegra D, is considered safe for breastfeeding moms. However, it can cause a temporary dip in milk production, so it’s best to use it sparingly.
Pain Relievers: Ibuprofen (Motrin) is one of the preferred anti-inflammatory medications for breastfeeding mothers, as it is processed quickly by the body and does not stay in the milk for long.
Antihistamines: Non-drowsy antihistamines like cetirizine (Zyrtec) and loratadine (Claritin) are generally considered safe.
Cough Suppressants: Dextromethorphan, a common cough suppressant, is also considered safe for breastfeeding.
Homeopathic Remedies: Oscillococcinum, a homeopathic supplement used to treat cold and flu symptoms, is unlikely to have any significant effects on breastfeeding infants or milk production.
Nasal Sprays: Corticosteroid nasal sprays like Flonase and Nasacort, as well as cromolyn sodium nasal spray (Nasalcrom), are considered some of the safest and most effective allergy treatments for breastfeeding mothers.
It’s important to note that while these medications are generally considered safe, it’s always best to consult with your healthcare provider before taking any medication while breastfeeding. They can provide personalized guidance based on your specific situation and the needs of your baby.

What is the safest anti allergy medication for breastfeeding?

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. Antihistamines such as Zatador are available as eye drops, which help itchy, watery eyes.

Can I 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.

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.

What if I have a cold while breastfeeding?

If you’re breastfeeding with a cold, no need to worry. Viruses like the common cold do not pass into breast milk, so breastfeeding is not only safe, it’s a good excuse for you to sit and rest!

How do you treat cold and flu while breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding when you have a cold:
Ensure you rest and drink plenty of fluids (eg: water or juice) • Use good hygiene practices to minimise the spread of infection to others • Treat symptoms as for pregnancy • Avoid the use of aspirin for pain or fever but ibuprofen is safe in breastfeeding.

What to do if mother has a cold while breastfeeding?

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.

Why is Zyrtec not recommended while 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 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.

What cold medicine can I take while 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.