What medicine can I take for a cold while breastfeeding?

Understanding Cold Medications While Breastfeeding
Navigating the world of cold medications can be particularly challenging for breastfeeding mothers. With the need to alleviate symptoms while ensuring the safety of their infants, many nursing moms find themselves questioning which remedies are appropriate. Fortunately, there are several options that are generally considered safe.
Safe Medications for Nursing Mothers
1. Acetaminophen: This common pain reliever and fever reducer is compatible with breastfeeding. Only small amounts of acetaminophen are secreted into breast milk, making it a safe choice for nursing mothers. In fact, infants often receive doses of acetaminophen that are much higher than what they would get through breast milk.
2. Cough Suppressants and Decongestants: Many over-the-counter (OTC) cough suppressants and decongestants are deemed safe for breastfeeding mothers. Medications containing pseudoephedrine, for instance, are generally considered acceptable, although it’s advisable to use them in moderation and consult a healthcare provider if there are any concerns.
3. Nasal Sprays: Corticosteroid nasal sprays, such as Flonase and Nasacort, are effective for treating nasal congestion and are also safe for breastfeeding mothers. These sprays work locally in the nasal passages and have minimal systemic absorption, reducing the risk of affecting breast milk.
4. Cough Drops and Lozenges: These can provide relief for sore throats and are safe to use while breastfeeding. Products like Chloraseptic throat spray are also considered safe.
5. Non-Drowsy Antihistamines: For those experiencing allergy symptoms alongside a cold, non-sedating antihistamines are generally safe. However, it’s important to avoid medications that may cause drowsiness, as they can potentially affect milk supply.
Precautions to Consider
While many OTC cold medications are safe, there are some precautions to keep in mind. It’s recommended to avoid multi-symptom medications, as they may contain ingredients that are not suitable for breastfeeding mothers. Additionally, higher doses of certain medications can impact milk supply, so it’s best to take the lowest effective dose.
Consulting with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication is always a wise choice. They can provide personalized advice based on individual health needs and circumstances.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers have a variety of safe options for treating cold symptoms. Acetaminophen, cough suppressants, nasal sprays, and cough drops are all viable choices. However, it’s crucial to remain cautious about dosages and to consult healthcare professionals when in doubt. By taking these steps, nursing mothers can effectively manage their cold symptoms while ensuring the safety of their little ones.

What can I take for a cold while breastfeeding?

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.

How do you treat a cold in a breastfed baby?

Self care

1. Offer plenty of fluids. Liquids are important to avoid dehydration.
2. Suction your baby’s nose. Keep your baby’s nasal passages clear with a rubber-bulb syringe.
3. Try nasal saline drops. Your baby’s doctor may recommend saline nasal drops to moisten nasal passages and loosen thick nasal mucus.
4. Moisten the air.

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 Mucinex cold and flu safe while breastfeeding?

The recommended dose of basic Mucinex is likely safe to take while breastfeeding. It is worth noting, however, that some medication does pass through breast milk to the baby.

Does Benadryl dry up milk supply?

Remember, there are also many medications that can reduce your milk supply. For example, antihistamines like Benadryl, Zyrtec, Allegra, etc, or decongestants like Sudafed, can decrease your milk supply.

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.

Will my baby catch my cold if I breastfeed?

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.

Why is Zyrtec not recommended while breastfeeding?

Zyrtec, although generally safe, is not recommended during breastfeeding because it passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. Possible side effects on the baby include irritation or lethargy. Always consult your healthcare provider before taking any medication while breastfeeding.

Can breastfeeding moms take DayQuil?

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.

What is safe to breastfeed with a cold sore?

Breastfeeding and cold sores
Cold sores occur commonly around the time of delivery, so it is important to treat cold sores aggressively to prevent transmission to a newborn baby. Aciclovir cream, aciclovir or valaciclovir tablets are all considered safe while breastfeeding.