What flu medication can I take while breastfeeding?

Understanding Flu Medications While Breastfeeding
Navigating the world of medications while breastfeeding can be daunting, especially when dealing with the flu. Fortunately, there are safe options available for nursing mothers who find themselves under the weather.
Preferred Antiviral Medication
If you are breastfeeding and have suspected or confirmed influenza, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends oral oseltamivir as the preferred antiviral medication. This medication is effective in treating flu symptoms and is considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. It’s important to consult with your healthcare provider to ensure that this treatment aligns with your specific health needs.
Over-the-Counter Options
In addition to antiviral medications, there are several over-the-counter (OTC) options that can help alleviate flu symptoms. Pseudoephedrine, found in products like Sudafed, is generally safe for breastfeeding mothers. However, it’s worth noting that while it can relieve nasal congestion, it may lead to a temporary dip in milk production, particularly with long-term use.
For pain relief, both ibuprofen and acetaminophen are considered safe during breastfeeding. These medications transfer only a minuscule amount into breast milk, making them first-choice options for managing fever and headaches.
What to Avoid
While many medications are safe, some should be avoided. For instance, products containing diphenhydramine (like Benadryl) can cause drowsiness and may affect milk supply. Additionally, alcohol-based medications and certain combination products like NyQuil and DayQuil are not recommended for breastfeeding mothers.
Breastfeeding During Illness
It’s crucial to remember that breastfeeding can continue even when you are ill. In fact, breast milk provides essential antibodies that help protect your baby from infections. Maintaining breastfeeding not only supports your baby’s immune system but also helps in your recovery by promoting bonding and comfort.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are breastfeeding and come down with the flu, oral oseltamivir is the recommended antiviral treatment. OTC options like pseudoephedrine, ibuprofen, and acetaminophen can also be safely used to manage symptoms. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any medication to ensure it’s appropriate for your situation. Remember, continuing to breastfeed while sick can be beneficial for both you and your baby.

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.

Is DayQuil ok while breastfeeding?

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 Tylenol flu 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.

Can a breastfeeding mom take Tylenol Cold and Flu?

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 can I fight a cold while breastfeeding?

Yes, there are several ways to manage cold symptoms without medications while breastfeeding:

1. Drink lots of water or other clear liquids. Clear liquids, especially warm ones, help break up mucus in your nose and chest.
2. Take a hot, steamy shower.
3. Use a humidifier.
4. Try a saline nasal spray or neti pot.
5. Rest.

Is Tamiflu ok while breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding Patients
Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) is probably compatible with breastfeeding. Levels of oseltamivir in milk (39 ng/mL) are very low and would be subclinical to an infant. The infant would receive only about 0.5% of the mothers dose. The CDC considers oseltamivir safe to use in breastfeeding mothers.

Will my baby get sick if I’m sick and breastfeeding?

In fact, your body will actually start producing antibodies for those illnesses and pass those antibodies through your milk to your baby, effectively reducing the risk and severity of those illnesses to your infant and/or toddler.

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 can a breastfeeding mom take for the flu?

If you are sick enough to need antiviral medications, Tamiflu is preferred for breastfeeding mothers over other antiviral medications. If you need to take over the counter (OTC) medications to help treat symptoms, most OTC medications are compatible with breastfeeding but some medications are preferred over others.

What cold and flu medicine is safe while breastfeeding?

Safe cold medicine while breastfeeding
In general, pseudoephedrine, dextromethorphan, NSAID pain relievers, acetaminophen, and second-generation allergy medications such as Zyrtec and Claritin are considered safe options for treating cold symptoms while breastfeeding. Dr.