What pain reliever can you take nursing?

Understanding Pain Relief for Nursing Mothers
When it comes to managing pain while nursing, it’s crucial to prioritize both the mother’s health and the well-being of the breastfeeding infant. Nursing mothers often wonder about the safety of various pain relievers and their potential effects on breast milk.
Safe Pain Relievers for Nursing Mothers
1. Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Acetaminophen is widely considered one of the safest pain relievers for nursing mothers. It effectively alleviates mild to moderate pain, including headaches, muscle aches, and postpartum discomfort. Studies indicate that acetaminophen is excreted in breast milk in very minimal amounts, making it a suitable option for those breastfeeding. The American Academy of Pediatrics categorizes it as compatible with breastfeeding.
2. Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
Ibuprofen is another pain reliever that nursing mothers can safely use. Like acetaminophen, it is effective for relieving pain and reducing inflammation. Research shows that only small amounts are passed into breast milk, which are not likely to affect a nursing infant. Ibuprofen is often recommended for conditions such as menstrual cramps, dental pain, and back pain.
3. Naproxen (Aleve)
Naproxen is an anti-inflammatory drug that is sometimes used by nursing mothers. While it is considered safe, it is typically recommended to be used with caution. This is because it has a longer half-life than both acetaminophen and ibuprofen, meaning it remains in the body longer. It’s essential for nursing mothers to consult with a healthcare provider before using naproxen to ensure it’s appropriate for their specific situation.
Pain Relievers to Avoid
1. Aspirin
Aspirin is generally not recommended for nursing mothers due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome in children. This rare but serious condition can occur in children who have taken aspirin during viral infections. Therefore, nursing mothers should avoid this medication and consider safer alternatives.
2. Codeine
While codeine may be prescribed for severe pain, it is crucial for nursing mothers to exercise caution. Codeine is metabolized into morphine, and some individuals may metabolize it rapidly, leading to higher levels of morphine in their breast milk. This can pose serious risks to infants, including respiratory distress. If prescribed codeine, close monitoring and consultation with a healthcare professional are essential.
Key Considerations
When choosing a pain reliever, nursing mothers should consider the following:
– Consult a Healthcare Provider: Always discuss pain management options with a healthcare provider to determine the safest choice based on individual health needs and circumstances.
– Monitor Infant Reactions: After taking any medication, mothers should observe their infants for any unusual changes in behavior or health.
– Stay Informed: Awareness of the latest guidelines and studies regarding medication and breastfeeding can help mothers make informed choices.
Conclusion
In summary, acetaminophen and ibuprofen are generally safe pain relievers for nursing mothers, while aspirin and codeine should be avoided unless under strict medical supervision. Ultimately, the health of both the mother and child is paramount, and any medication should be taken with careful consideration and professional guidance.

Is Extra Strength Tylenol OK when breastfeeding?

Most over-the-counter (also called OTC) medicine, like pain relievers and cold medicine, are OK to take when you’re breastfeeding. For example, OTC pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil®) or acetaminophen (Tylenol®) are safe to use when breastfeeding.

Is Tylenol PM safe while breastfeeding?

Acetaminophen and diphenhydramine are generally considered safe to take while breastfeeding. But it’s possible that diphenhydramine can cause sleepiness or irritability in your baby if you breastfeed after taking Tylenol PM Extra Strength (acetaminophen / diphenhydramine).

Which drug is usually avoided with breastfeeding?

Table. Examples of drugs contraindicated in breastfeeding.

Drug	Comment
Iodine	High doses (>150 micrograms daily) lead to risk of infant hypothyroidism
Lithium	Breastfeeding only feasible with rigorous monitoring
Radiopharmaceuticals	Contact obstetric information service
Retinoids (oral)	Potential for serious adverse effects

Is it safe to take Tylenol complete while breastfeeding?

Many medicines are safe to use when you breastfeed. These include: Pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin).

What is not recommended for breastfeeding?

Medical Contraindications for Breastfeeding
There are a few medical contraindications to breastfeeding, and these include: An infant who has the metabolic disorder of classic galactosemia (galactose 1-phosphate uridyltransferase deficiency). A mother living with human T-cell lymphotrophic virus type I or type II.

Is Tylenol PM Extra-Strength safe during pregnancy?

Tylenol (acetaminophen) is considered the safest painkiller to take during pregnancy. Yes, you can take Extra-Strength (500 mg) Tylenol during pregnancy, but don’t take more than 6 caplets (3,000 mg) in 24 hours unless your doctor advises you to. Yes, you can take the proper dose of Tylenol any time during pregnancy.

Does ibuprofen affect milk supply?

Your baby receives very little of the medication in your milk, and very few meds will affect your milk supply. Tylenol and ibuprofen are fine to take for pain relief and fever, for example. For allergies and colds, most antihistamines are okay, but some decongestants can decrease your milk supply.

What is a stomach friendly alternative to ibuprofen?

Acetaminophen, especially in low dose, appears less likely to irritate the stomach than NSAIDs, so in many cases it is reasonable to take acetaminophen along with (or instead of) NSAIDs.

What pain relievers are safe while breastfeeding?

What medications are safe to take while breastfeeding?

• Acetaminophen (Tylenol, others)
• Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others)
• Naproxen sodium (Aleve, Anaprox DS, others) — short-term use only.

Is it better to take Tylenol or ibuprofen while breastfeeding?

Your baby receives very little of the medication in your milk, and very few meds will affect your milk supply. Tylenol and ibuprofen are fine to take for pain relief and fever, for example. For allergies and colds, most antihistamines are okay, but some decongestants can decrease your milk supply.