What can you take when breastfeeding for a cold?

Navigating Cold Remedies While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding mothers often face the challenge of managing common colds while ensuring the safety of their infants. Fortunately, many cold medications are considered safe for nursing mothers, allowing them to find relief without compromising their baby’s health.
Breastfeeding and Cold Viruses
First and foremost, it’s important to note that breastfeeding while sick is generally safe. Viruses like the common cold do not transfer into breast milk, meaning that mothers can continue to nurse without fear of passing the illness to their infants. This not only provides comfort to the baby but also allows the mother to rest and recover.
Safe Medications for Relief
When it comes to treating cold symptoms, several over-the-counter (OTC) medications are deemed safe for breastfeeding mothers. Pain relievers such as paracetamol (acetaminophen) and ibuprofen can be taken at normal adult doses without concern for the infant. These medications can help alleviate fever and body aches associated with colds.
For nasal congestion, oral decongestants like pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine are available, but caution is advised. While they may be effective, they can potentially reduce milk supply and are not generally recommended for breastfeeding mothers. Instead, saline nasal sprays or drops can provide relief without the risks associated with oral decongestants.
Antihistamines and Cough Remedies
First-generation antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (found in Benadryl), can help with runny noses and watery eyes. However, these may cause drowsiness in both the mother and the infant, leading to irritability. Non-sedating antihistamines are a better choice for those looking to avoid these side effects.
Cough drops and throat sprays, like Chloraseptic, are also considered safe and can provide symptomatic relief for sore throats. Additionally, herbal supplements such as elderberry may help shorten the duration of cold symptoms, although there is limited research on their effects during breastfeeding.
What to Avoid
While many medications are safe, certain substances should be avoided. Products containing codeine and aspirin are not recommended for breastfeeding mothers due to potential risks to the infant. Alcohol-based medications, such as NyQuil and DayQuil, should also be avoided as they can affect both milk production and the baby’s well-being.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can take several medications to alleviate cold symptoms safely. By opting for pain relievers like paracetamol and ibuprofen, using saline nasal sprays, and avoiding certain antihistamines and decongestants, mothers can manage their symptoms effectively while continuing to provide nourishment and comfort to their infants. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication to ensure it aligns with individual health needs and circumstances.

Can I take emergen C while breastfeeding?

Yes, you can take Emergen-C while breastfeeding, but it’s important to not exceed the recommended dosage. Emergen-C is a supplement rich in vitamin C, often used for boosting immune health. However, while vitamin C is crucial for both you and your baby, consuming it in large amounts can cause digestive upset.

Is mucinex safe while 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 decongestant for breastfeeding?

Afrin (oxymetazoline) nasal spray is a nasal decongestant that can be used safely while breastfeeding. Because the medicine is not absorbed well from the nasal passages, it doesn’t have the same effect on milk supply that decongestants taken by mouth can have.

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.

Will my baby catch my cold if I breastfeed?

With most common illnesses like a cold or flu, it is safe to continue breastfeeding your baby as long as you take proper hygiene precautions like handwashing. Continuing to breastfeed will help you to maintain your milk supply and will provide your baby with protection against the illness you are experiencing.

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.

Can I take Mucinex while 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.

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.

Which tablet is best for a cold during 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.

What can I take for a cold 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).