What cough medicine is safe when breastfeeding?

Understanding Safe Cough Medicines for Breastfeeding Mothers
When it comes to managing a cough while breastfeeding, many mothers are understandably cautious about the medications they choose. The good news is that there are several cough medicines considered safe for breastfeeding mothers, allowing them to find relief without compromising their baby’s health.
Key Safe Ingredients
Dextromethorphan is one of the primary active ingredients in many over-the-counter cough suppressants that is deemed safe for breastfeeding. Products such as Robitussin, Delsym, and Vicks DayQuil Cough contain this ingredient and are unlikely to affect milk supply or cause adverse effects in infants. This makes dextromethorphan a popular choice for mothers looking to alleviate their cough symptoms without worry.
Another safe option is guaifenesin, an expectorant that helps thin mucus, making it easier to expel. Medications like Mucinex and Robitussin also contain guaifenesin and are generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. While guaifenesin has not been extensively studied in breast milk, it is believed to be safe based on its pharmacological profile.
General Recommendations
While many cough medicines are safe, it is always advisable for breastfeeding mothers to consult with their healthcare provider or their baby’s pediatrician before starting any new medication. This ensures that any specific health concerns or conditions are taken into account.
Additionally, while using nasal sprays can be effective, mothers should be cautious about prolonged use, as it may lead to rebound congestion if used for more than seven to ten days.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can safely use cough medicines containing dextromethorphan and guaifenesin to manage their symptoms. However, consulting with a healthcare professional remains a crucial step to ensure both mother and baby remain healthy during treatment. By making informed choices, mothers can find relief from their cough while continuing to provide for their little ones.

What cough medicine can I take in nursing?

Two main OTC cough medications are considered safe to take when breastfeeding: dextromethorphan (Delsym) and guaifenesin (Mucinex, Robitussin). Dextromethorphan helps calm a cough. The amount found in breast milk after taking it is very low, so it should be safe for your baby. Guaifenesin is an expectorant.

What cough medicine can I take while breastfeeding?

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.

What is the nursing care plan for cough?

The nursing care plan addresses a patient experiencing coughing and fatigue. The plan includes assessing the patient’s response to activity and interventions, providing a quiet environment and limiting visitors, elevating the head and encouraging position changes and deep breathing.

What cough suppressant can you take while pregnant?

Dextromethorphan (DM) is a cough suppressant commonly found in OTC cold medications. There are a number of human studies on the use of DM during pregnancy that did not find an association between this drug and an increased risk of birth defects.

How to get rid of a cold while breastfeeding?

Try the following to help the discomfort of a cold or a sore throat when breastfeeding:

1. Take honey and lemon mixed in hot water, or sip on other warm fluids like natural teas to keep your throat moist.
2. Gargle some salt water.
3. If you have a cough, try a cough medicine that is based on glycerine and honey.

How can a nursing mother treat a cough?

Anaesthetic sprays, lozenges or pastilles to soothe coughs and sore throats. You can use lozenges, pastilles and throat sprays (e.g. Strepsils®, Ultra-Chloraseptic throat spray®, Difflam®) when you are breastfeeding, to relieve your symptoms.

Is Tylenol cough and cold safe for 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 Robitussin DM dry up my milk supply?

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.

Is Robitussin safe 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.