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Which tablet is safe for a cold during breastfeeding?

Understanding Cold Medications While Breastfeeding
When a breastfeeding mother catches a cold, the concern often shifts to what medications are safe to take without risking the health of her baby. It’s crucial to navigate this carefully, as some medications can affect milk production or have adverse effects on infants.
Safe Options for Cold Relief
According to recent insights, pseudoephedrine, found in medications like Sudafed and Allegra D, is considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. While it may lead to a slight decrease in milk production, this effect is generally not significant unless the medication is used over an extended period. This makes pseudoephedrine a viable option for relieving nasal congestion and other cold symptoms.
Additionally, nonsedating antihistamines are typically safe for nursing mothers. These medications can help alleviate allergy symptoms without causing drowsiness, which is beneficial for both the mother and the baby.
Medications to Avoid
While many over-the-counter options are safe, certain medications should be avoided. For instance, products containing doxylamine succinate, commonly found in nighttime cold formulations, can cause sedation and may not be the best choice for breastfeeding mothers. Furthermore, alcohol-based medications and those containing ingredients known to cause irritability or excessive drowsiness in infants should be avoided.
Consulting Healthcare Professionals
It’s always advisable for breastfeeding mothers to consult with healthcare professionals before taking any medication. They can provide personalized advice based on individual health needs and the specific symptoms being experienced. This ensures that both the mother’s health and the baby’s safety are prioritized.
Conclusion
In summary, while dealing with a cold during breastfeeding, options like pseudoephedrine and nonsedating antihistamines can provide relief without significant risks. However, caution is warranted with certain sedative medications and alcohol-based products. Always consult a healthcare provider to make informed decisions about medication use during this sensitive time.

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.

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.

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.

What to do if mother has a cold while breastfeeding?

If you have a cold or flu, fever, diarrhoea and vomiting, or mastitis, keep breastfeeding as normal. Your baby won’t catch the illness through your breast milk – in fact, it will contain antibodies to reduce her risk of getting the same bug. “Not only is it safe, breastfeeding while sick is a good idea.

What if mom has a cold while breastfeeding?

Your baby won’t catch the illness through your breast milk – in fact, it will contain antibodies to reduce her risk of getting the same bug. “Not only is it safe, breastfeeding while sick is a good idea.

What cold medicine can I take 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).

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.

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 is the safest anti allergy medication for breastfeeding?

Cetirizine (Zyrtec) and loratadine (Claritin) are the recommended antihistamines when breastfeeding. Other antihistamines are also considered safe but do not have as much research to support this. These include Allegra and Xyzal. Antihistamines such as Zatador are available as eye drops, which help itchy, watery eyes.

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.
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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