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What throat lozenges are safe while breastfeeding?

Understanding Throat Lozenges While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding mothers often face the challenge of managing common ailments like sore throats without compromising their health or that of their infants. When it comes to throat lozenges, safety is a primary concern, and understanding which options are suitable can help alleviate discomfort effectively.
Safe Options for Throat Lozenges
According to recent insights, benzocaine lozenges are considered a safe choice for breastfeeding mothers. Benzocaine, a local anesthetic, has low oral absorption, meaning that the concentration in maternal blood is unlikely to reach levels that could affect a breastfeeding infant significantly. This makes benzocaine-based products, including cough drops and lozenges, an excellent option for soothing sore throats.
Additionally, menthol lozenges can also be safe, as they typically do not pose a risk to breastfeeding infants. These lozenges work by providing a cooling sensation that can help relieve throat irritation.
Caution with Multi-Ingredient Lozenges
While some lozenges, like Chloraseptic, contain multiple active ingredients, caution is advised. These products may have components that are not well-studied in the context of breastfeeding. It is essential for mothers to check the specific ingredients and consult healthcare professionals if unsure about their safety.
Natural Remedies and Alternatives
For mothers looking for non-medicated options, natural remedies can be beneficial. Sucking on pastilles, sipping honey and lemon, or even consuming warm teas can help keep the throat moist and alleviate discomfort. These alternatives not only provide relief but also avoid any potential risks associated with medicated lozenges.
General Recommendations
When dealing with a sore throat while breastfeeding, it is crucial to stay hydrated and consider simple home remedies. Gargling with salt water and drinking plenty of fluids can also help soothe throat irritation. If symptoms persist or worsen, consulting a healthcare provider is always the best course of action to ensure both maternal and infant health.
In summary, while benzocaine and menthol lozenges are generally safe for breastfeeding mothers, it is vital to be cautious with multi-ingredient products and to explore natural remedies as effective alternatives. Always prioritize safety and consult with healthcare professionals when in doubt.

What throat lozenges are safe while pregnant?

Cough & Cold: Sore Throat Relief

  • Cepacol Dual Relief Sore Throat Spray.
  • Cepacol Sugar Free Extra Strength.
  • Sore Throat Lozenges with Pain Numbing Relief.
  • Cepacol Maximum Strength Sore Throat Lozenges.

Can breastfeeding moms have lozenges?

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.

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.

What are the best throat lozenges while breastfeeding?

Benzocaine cough drops or lozenges (with or without menthol) are an excellent choice for cough relief in breastfeeding mothers. Common trade names: Cepacol. Honey (L3).

What throat medicine can I take while breastfeeding?

Two main OTC cough medications are considered safe to take when breastfeeding: dextromethorphan (Delsym) and guaifenesin (Mucinex, Robitussin). Dextromethorphan helps calm a cough. The amount found in breast milk after taking it is very low, so it should be safe for your baby. Guaifenesin is an expectorant.

Can I take anything for a cold while breastfeeding?

Pain relievers, nonsedating antihistamines, nasal sprays, and over-the-counter cough medicines are generally safe to take while breastfeeding. However, people should avoid ingredients that cause drowsiness, irritability, and reduced milk production.

Which tablet can feeding mother take for throat pain?

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.

What can I take for a sore throat while breastfeeding?

Try the following to help the discomfort of a cold or a sore throat when breastfeeding:

  1. Take honey and lemon mixed in hot water, or sip on other warm fluids like natural teas to keep your throat moist.
  2. Gargle some salt water.
  3. If you have a cough, try a cough medicine that is based on glycerine and honey.

Is it OK to have menthol while breastfeeding?

Sore throat sprays, lozenges or cough drops are usually considered safe. Avoid taking large amounts of cough drops containing menthol as this may decrease milk production.

Can I take chloraseptic lozenges 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.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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