What flu medicine can I drink while breastfeeding?

Navigating Flu Medications While Breastfeeding
When a breastfeeding mother contracts the flu, the primary concern often revolves around the safety of medications she might take. Fortunately, there are options available that can help alleviate symptoms without compromising the health of her infant.
Breastfeeding and the Flu: A Safe Continuation
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes that mothers with suspected or confirmed flu can continue breastfeeding. This is crucial because breast milk is uniquely designed to provide infants with antibodies that help them combat infections, including the flu. Thus, maintaining breastfeeding not only supports the mother’s health but also fortifies the baby’s immune system.
Antiviral Medications: A Viable Option
For mothers experiencing flu symptoms, antiviral medications such as oseltamivir (commonly known as Tamiflu) are considered safe to use while breastfeeding. The CDC recommends these antivirals as they can effectively reduce the duration and severity of flu symptoms. However, it is essential for mothers to consult their healthcare provider to determine the appropriateness of this treatment based on their specific circumstances.
Over-the-Counter Medications: What’s Safe?
In addition to antivirals, many over-the-counter medications can be safely taken by breastfeeding mothers. Pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) are generally safe and can help manage fever and discomfort associated with the flu. However, mothers should avoid certain medications, particularly those containing alcohol or specific decongestants like pseudoephedrine, which may affect milk supply and could be harmful to infants.
Herbal Remedies and Caution
Some mothers may consider herbal supplements, such as echinacea, for flu symptoms. While there is limited research on the effects of echinacea during breastfeeding, it is generally regarded as likely safe. Nonetheless, it is advisable to approach herbal remedies with caution and consult a healthcare professional before use.
Conclusion: Prioritize Health and Safety
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can effectively manage flu symptoms with the right medications while continuing to provide the benefits of breast milk to their infants. Antivirals like Tamiflu and certain over-the-counter medications are safe options, but it is always best to consult with a healthcare provider to tailor treatment to individual needs. By prioritizing both their health and that of their baby, mothers can navigate flu season with confidence.

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).

What cold medicine won’t affect my milk supply?

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.

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.

Can I take DayQuil while pregnant?

Cold medications that are generally considered off-limits during pregnancy include: Some pain relievers and fever reducers, including ibuprofen, aspirin, and naproxen (Aleve) Most decongestants, including Claritin-D, DayQuil, NyQuil or Sudafed. Non-steroidal nasal sprays, such as Afrin.

What is the safest cold medicine while pregnant?

Pregnancy-Safe Cold & Flu Medication

• Acetaminophen (Tylenol) Safe during the entire pregnancy. Take only as needed.
• Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) Safe in the second and third trimester.
• Chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton) Safe during pregnancy.
• Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) Safe throughout pregnancy.

What can I take for flu while breastfeeding?

Summary

• You can continue to breastfeed when you have a cough, cold, the flu or COVID-19.
• You can take paracetamol and ibuprofen whilst breastfeeding, at the normal adult doses.
• Oral decongestants are not recommended when you are breastfeeding as they can reduce your milk supply with just one or two doses.

Can the flu dry up breast milk?

“Don’t worry about your breast milk supply – you will keep producing it. Just don’t stop breastfeeding abruptly as you’ll run the risk of getting mastitis,” Sarah adds. Good hygiene is important to minimize the risk of spreading the illness.

Is Nyquil OK while breastfeeding?

Official answer. It is best not to take Nyquil while breastfeeding because it contains ingredients such as doxylamine that may affect your milk supply, and cause drowsiness in you and your newborn. Liquid formulations of Nyquil also contain alcohol which is not recommended during breastfeeding.

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.

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.