What happens if you take cold medicine while breastfeeding?

Understanding Cold Medicine Use While Breastfeeding
For nursing mothers battling a cold, the question of whether to take cold medicine can be a source of anxiety. The good news is that many over-the-counter (OTC) cold medications are generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers, allowing them to find relief without compromising their baby’s health.
Safety of Cold Medications
According to health experts, nonsedating antihistamines, nasal sprays, and certain OTC cough medicines are typically safe for breastfeeding mothers. These medications can help alleviate symptoms like congestion and cough, enabling mothers to care for their infants more effectively. However, it is crucial to be cautious about the specific ingredients in these medications, as some can be passed through breast milk to the baby.
Medications to Avoid
While many cold remedies are safe, some should be avoided. For instance, medications containing NyQuil, Benadryl, Sudafed, and DayQuil are generally not recommended for breastfeeding mothers. These products may contain ingredients that could potentially affect the nursing infant. Therefore, it is essential for mothers to read labels carefully and consult healthcare providers if they are unsure about a particular medication.
Recommendations for Relief
Dr. Leah Mello emphasizes that taking a safe cold medicine can significantly improve a mother’s ability to function and care for her baby. For those seeking relief, options like Motrin (ibuprofen) are often preferred due to their quick processing in the body and minimal presence in breast milk. This allows mothers to manage pain and inflammation effectively without risking their baby’s well-being.
Conclusion
In summary, while many cold medications are safe for breastfeeding mothers, it is vital to be informed about which ones to choose and which to avoid. Consulting with healthcare professionals can provide personalized guidance, ensuring that mothers can find relief from cold symptoms while maintaining the health and safety of their infants.

Does cold medicine affect breast milk?

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.

Can I take Tylenol cold and flu when 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 mother pass a cold to a baby?

Of course, our top priority as mothers is protecting this new little life, and we would do anything for them. So, here is the good news. Your body has superpowers! Did you know that you cannot pass illnesses such as the cold, flu, fever, diarrhea, vomiting and even COVID through your breast milk?

Can I take Tylenol Cold and Flu 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.

Are breastfed babies less likely to get RSV?

Infants receiving (exclusive or partial) maternal milk had lower risk of RSV bronchiolitis. Partial breastfeeding reduces risk of hospitalisation.

What can I take for a cold while breastfeeding fast?

You can use lozenges, pastilles and throat sprays (e.g. Strepsils®, Ultra-Chloraseptic throat spray®, Difflam®) when you are breastfeeding, to relieve your symptoms. There is very little data on whether these products affect breastfed infants, but they have been used extensively without reports of problems.

Will my baby get sick if I breastfeed with a cold?

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.

Can a mother pass a cold to her baby?

Of course, our top priority as mothers is protecting this new little life, and we would do anything for them. So, here is the good news. Your body has superpowers! Did you know that you cannot pass illnesses such as the cold, flu, fever, diarrhea, vomiting and even COVID through your breast milk?

Will DayQuil dry up breast milk?

Other medications, like phenylephrine and pseudoephedrine, can hinder milk production and cause irritability or other side effects in babies. Avoid products sold under the brand names Benedryl, Sudafed, NyQuil, and DayQuil while lactating.

What cold medicines dont affect breastfeeding?

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.