What cough drops can I have while breastfeeding?

Cough Drops and Breastfeeding: What You Need to Know
Breastfeeding mothers often face the challenge of managing common ailments like coughs and colds while ensuring the safety of their infants. When it comes to cough drops, the good news is that many options are considered safe for breastfeeding mothers, but there are important considerations to keep in mind.
Safe Options for Cough Relief
According to health experts, cough drops containing benzocaine are particularly recommended for breastfeeding mothers. Benzocaine has low oral absorption, meaning that the amount that enters the mother’s bloodstream—and subsequently, the breast milk—is minimal. This significantly reduces the risk of any adverse effects on the breastfeeding infant.
Additionally, menthol cough drops are also deemed safe. These drops can provide soothing relief for sore throats and coughs without posing significant risks to the nursing baby.
Considerations for Ingredients
While many cough drops are safe, it is crucial to check the ingredient list. Some cough drops may contain additional ingredients that could be less suitable for breastfeeding mothers. For instance, drops that include dextromethorphan, a common cough suppressant, are generally considered safe and unlikely to affect milk supply or cause side effects in infants.
Moreover, herbal options like slippery elm bark are available in lozenge form and can be beneficial for soothing coughs and sore throats. However, it’s essential to verify the other ingredients to ensure they are safe for breastfeeding.
Consultation is Key
Despite the general safety of many cough drops, it is always wise for breastfeeding mothers to consult with their healthcare provider or pediatrician before starting any new medication, including over-the-counter cough drops. This ensures that any specific health concerns or allergies are taken into account.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can generally use cough drops, particularly those containing benzocaine or menthol, with caution. Always check the ingredients and consult with a healthcare professional to ensure the chosen product is safe for both mother and baby. By taking these precautions, mothers can find relief from coughs while continuing to provide for their infants’ needs.

Are Ricola cough drops safe while breastfeeding?

In principle, Ricola products are safe to use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. For your own safety, however, we recommend that you consult your doctor in advance to rule out any allergies or intolerances to certain ingredients in our products. All the ingredients are listed on the packaging.

What cough drops are safe while breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding-Safe Medicines for a Cough

• Delsym.
• Mucinex.
• Robitussin DM.
• Robitussin 12 Hour Cough Relief.
• Vicks Formula 44 Cough Control.

Can you have Halls cough drops while pregnant?

You may also take: Cough drops (throat lozenges), such as Halls, Ricola, Cepacol or Chloraseptic. Avoid products that contain alcohol.

How to stop baby coughing while breastfeeding?

Make sure your breasts are not engorged or over-full.
If your baby is pulling off and gagging or coughing during feeding, sit your baby up in a seated burp position. Gently pat your baby’s back to help your little one calm down before you continue feeding.

Is Robitussin safe for breastfeeding mom?

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).

Is slippery elm safe while breastfeeding?

Slippery Elm Risks
Supplements aren’t regulated by the FDA in the same way that drugs are. The FDA does not review these supplements for safety or efficacy before they hit the market. Slippery elm may not be safe for children or if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. If you’re pregnant, avoid slippery elm.

What can a breastfeeding mom take for a cough?

If you are feeling very unwell because of a cold, the flu or sinus problems, you should contact your doctor. For a dry cough, a cough suppressant such as pholcodine or dextromethorphan is considered safe while breastfeeding. A dry, irritating cough is usually associated with a postnasal drip.

Does menthol decrease milk supply?

Menthol is a compound found in many types of mint, including the most common variety consumed, peppermint. And unfortunately, menthol has been shown to decrease milk supply in some breastfeeding women. This doesn’t mean that you have to swear off mint altogether though.

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.

Does cough drops affect the baby?

Cough and Sore Throat
Benzocaine: Lozenges and cough drops may contain benzocaine. Human data does not show a risk of birth defects with benzocaine treatment during the first few months of pregnancy or throughout pregnancy.