What cough syrup is safe during breastfeeding?

Understanding Safe Cough Syrups During Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding mothers often face the challenge of managing cough and cold symptoms while ensuring the safety of their infants. Fortunately, there are several cough syrups and medications that are considered safe for use during this period.
Key Considerations for Cough Medications
When selecting a cough syrup, it is crucial to consider the active ingredients and their effects on both the mother and the breastfeeding infant. Most cough medications fall into two categories: cough suppressants and expectorants.
1. Cough Suppressants: These medications, such as those containing dextromethorphan, work by reducing the urge to cough. They are generally regarded as safe for breastfeeding mothers, as they are unlikely to affect breast milk supply or the infant adversely.
2. Expectorants: Medications like guaifenesin (found in products like Mucinex) help thin mucus, making it easier to expel. While there is limited research on guaifenesin in breast milk, it is widely considered safe for breastfeeding mothers.
Specific Recommendations
According to health experts, several cough syrups and medications are deemed safe for breastfeeding mothers:
– Benzocaine Cough Drops: These lozenges are effective for cough relief and have low oral absorption, meaning that the concentration in breast milk is minimal, posing little risk to the infant.

– Dextromethorphan and Guaifenesin: Both of these ingredients are commonly found in over-the-counter cough syrups and are generally safe for breastfeeding mothers.
– Triprolidine and Pseudoephedrine: These medications are also considered compatible with breastfeeding and can be used as first-line treatments for cough.
– Codeine: While it is classified as compatible with breastfeeding, it should only be used for short-term relief due to potential risks associated with its use.
Consultation is Key
Despite the general safety of these medications, it is always advisable for breastfeeding mothers to consult with their healthcare provider or pediatrician before starting any new medication. Individual circumstances, such as the infant’s age and health status, can influence the appropriateness of specific treatments.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers do not need to suffer through cough and cold symptoms. With a variety of safe options available, including cough suppressants and expectorants, relief is within reach. However, the best practice remains to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure the chosen medication is suitable for both mother and child.

What can I take for a cough while breastfeeding?

Cough. Two main OTC cough medications are considered safe to take when breastfeeding: dextromethorphan (Delsym) and guaifenesin (Mucinex, Robitussin). Dextromethorphan helps calm a cough.

Can I breastfeed if I have a cough?

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 to do when baby coughs while breastfeeding?

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. If you’ve tried the steps above and this continues to happen, talk to your doctor or lactation consultant.

What is the best cough drop for breastfeeding?

Benzocaine cough drops or lozenges (with or without menthol) are an excellent choice for cough relief in breastfeeding mothers. Common trade names: Cepacol. Honey (L3).

What cough syrup won’t affect my milk supply?

Dextromethorphan. This cold medicine is considered safe for breastfeeding moms and babies. Options like Robitussin, Delsym, Triaminic and Vicks DayQuil Cough are unlikely to affect your supply and have no reported infant side effects.

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.

Will Mucinex dry up milk supply?

Neela. “Just as they dry up your nasal congestion, they can also dry up your breast milk.

Which cough suppressant is safe during pregnancy?

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.

Can I have Robitussin 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.

Which cough syrup is safe in lactating mothers?

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.