What throat medicine can I take while breastfeeding?

Understanding Throat Medicine While Breastfeeding
Navigating the world of medications can be particularly challenging for breastfeeding mothers, especially when it comes to treating common ailments like a sore throat. Fortunately, there are several options available that are considered safe for nursing mothers.
Safe Medications for Sore Throat Relief
When dealing with throat discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen are generally safe to use while breastfeeding. These medications can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation without posing significant risks to the nursing infant.
In addition to systemic pain relievers, local treatments can also be effective. For instance, benzocaine cough drops or lozenges are recommended due to their low absorption into the bloodstream, which means that the levels in breast milk are unlikely to affect the baby. These lozenges can provide targeted relief for throat irritation without the systemic effects that might come from other medications.
Alternative Remedies
For those looking for non-pharmaceutical options, a saltwater gargle can be a simple yet effective remedy. Dissolving 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of salt in an 8-ounce glass of warm water and gargling can temporarily soothe a sore or scratchy throat. This method is safe and can be repeated as needed.
Medications to Avoid
While many medications are safe, there are some that breastfeeding mothers should avoid. For example, products containing alcohol, as well as certain cold medications like NyQuil, Benadryl, and Sudafed, are not recommended due to potential adverse effects on the infant. It’s crucial for nursing mothers to read labels carefully and consult healthcare providers if unsure about specific medications.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers have several safe options for treating throat discomfort, including acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and benzocaine lozenges. Non-drug remedies like saltwater gargles can also provide relief. However, caution should be exercised with certain medications that may pose risks to the nursing infant. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and to ensure the safety of both mother and child.

Are there any breastfeeding friendly throat lozenges?

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.

What cold sore medication is safe while breastfeeding?

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.

Can you take Halls lozenges while breastfeeding?

Most lozenges with menthol are safe for nursing moms because very little makes it into the milk supply. However, menthol is derived from peppermint oil, which may reduce milk supply in some women. It’s probably best to avoid consuming large amounts of peppermint or menthol cough drops.

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.

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.

What can I take for a sore throat while breastfeeding?

Sore 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.

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.

Which cold medicine is safe while breastfeeding?

Most cold medicines are safe while breastfeeding, especially if you take them short term and only when you need them. Some of the medications that are safe include: Expectorants that contain guaifenesin (Mucinex®, Robitussin® and others). Cough suppressants that contain dextromethorphan (DayQuil®, Delsym® and others).

Can you have honey while breastfeeding?

Yes, it is ok for a breastfeeding mother to eat honey. Botulism is not transmitted by breast milk. The Infant Botulism Treatment and Prevention Program recommends continuing breast feeding or the feeding of expressed breast milk during the illness and recovery from infant botulism.

Can you take mucinex sore throat while breastfeeding?

Experts say that it is generally OK to take Mucinex while breastfeeding, but there are a few things to know to keep you and your nursing baby safe.