What medicine can I take for strep throat while breastfeeding?

Understanding Strep Throat and Breastfeeding
Strep throat, a common bacterial infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, can lead to symptoms such as a severe sore throat, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. For breastfeeding mothers, the concern often arises about how to effectively treat this condition without compromising the health of their newborns.
Safe Medications for Strep Throat While Breastfeeding
When it comes to treating strep throat while breastfeeding, antibiotics are typically the first line of defense. The most commonly prescribed antibiotics for strep throat are penicillin and amoxicillin. These medications are considered safe for breastfeeding mothers, as they are effective against the bacteria causing the infection and have a low risk of adverse effects on the nursing infant.
If a mother is allergic to penicillin, alternatives such as cephalexin or clindamycin may be prescribed, which are also deemed safe during breastfeeding. It’s crucial for mothers to consult with their healthcare provider to determine the best course of action tailored to their specific health needs.
Over-the-Counter Relief
In addition to antibiotics, over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate symptoms. Medications like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and acetaminophen (Tylenol) are generally safe for breastfeeding mothers and can reduce throat pain and fever. These medications can provide much-needed relief while the antibiotics take effect.
Home Remedies and Supportive Care
For those seeking non-pharmaceutical options, several home remedies can be beneficial. Staying hydrated, using throat lozenges, and gargling with warm salt water can help soothe a sore throat. It’s advisable to choose throat lozenges that are safe for breastfeeding, and consulting a pharmacist can provide guidance on suitable options.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers diagnosed with strep throat have effective treatment options available that prioritize both their health and that of their infants. Antibiotics like penicillin and amoxicillin, along with supportive care measures, can help manage the infection safely. As always, it’s essential for mothers to communicate openly with their healthcare providers to ensure the best outcomes for themselves and their babies.

Can antibiotics mess with my milk supply?

In most cases, antibiotics are safe for breastfeeding parents and their babies. “Antibiotics are one of the most common medications mothers are prescribed, and all pass in some degree into milk,” explains the Academy of American Pediatrics (AAP).

What throat medicine is safe while breastfeeding?

Medicines containing either dextromethorphan or guaifenesin (an “expectorant” that thins mucus) can help quell a cough, and they’re unlikely to impact your breastmilk supply.

Will Mucinex dry up milk supply?

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

What are the side effects of amoxicillin while breastfeeding?

These small amounts are not expected to cause side effects for most nursing infants. In a study of 67 breastfeeding infants, there were no serious side effects from this medication in the breast milk. Some babies had rash, diarrhea, irritability, or constipation, but these reactions did not last long.

What can a breastfeeding mom take for strep throat?

Throat lozenges containing local anaesthetic, antibacterial agents or benzydamine may be used while breastfeeding. Avoid excessive use as it may cause unwanted side effects such as diarrhoea. Gargling salt water or drinking lemon and honey products may also help to ease a sore throat.

Which tablet is safe for throat infection for breastfeeding mothers?

You may have body aches or need a pain reliever for a sore throat. Acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium are safe options while breast-feeding. If you prefer treating a painful sore throat without these types of medications, you can ease symptoms with lozenges or an over-the-counter sore throat gargle.

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.

Can you pass an infection through breast milk?

Breast milk can occasionally transmit serious viral and bacterial infections to preterm infants. We present three cases of late-onset neonatal sepsis, including one that resulted in death, occurring in preterm infants. The likely source of the microorganisms in all three cases was expressed breast milk.

What antibiotics can a breastfeeding mother take?

All penicillin antibiotics can be used during breastfeeding with precautionary infant monitoring. Flucloxacillin, phenoxymethylpenicillin (penicillin V) and the broad-spectrum penicillins, such as amoxicillin and ampicillin, are the preferred choices as there is more evidence and experience to support their use.

Can a mother pass strep throat to my baby?

Carriers would test positive if tested for strep but have no symptoms. If someone is not treated for GBS during childbirth, there is a slight chance that the baby could be exposed while breastfeeding. However, it is very rare for people who are carriers of GBS to transfer the bacteria to their babies via breast milk.