Which cold medicine is safe for breastfeeding?

Understanding Cold Medicine Safety for Breastfeeding Mothers
When a breastfeeding mother catches a cold, the question of which medications are safe to take becomes paramount. It’s essential to choose remedies that not only alleviate symptoms but also ensure the safety of the nursing infant. Fortunately, several over-the-counter (OTC) options are generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers.
Safe Cold Medications
According to the National Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed), dextromethorphan, a common ingredient in cough syrups, is deemed safe for both breastfeeding mothers and their babies. This medication is effective for suppressing coughs without posing significant risks to the infant.
Additionally, nonsedating antihistamines are typically safe for use during breastfeeding. These medications can help relieve allergy symptoms without causing drowsiness, making them a preferable choice for nursing mothers.
Pain Relief Options
For pain relief, ibuprofen (commonly known by the brand name Motrin) is recommended. It is processed quickly by the body and does not linger in breast milk, making it a reliable option for managing pain and inflammation while breastfeeding.
Medications to Avoid
While many medications are safe, some should be avoided. For instance, products containing alcohol, such as certain formulations of NyQuil and DayQuil, are not advisable for breastfeeding mothers. Additionally, Benadryl and Sudafed can potentially affect milk supply and should be used with caution.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can safely use medications like dextromethorphan and ibuprofen to manage cold symptoms. However, it is crucial to avoid certain medications that could harm the infant or affect milk production. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication to ensure it aligns with both the mother’s health needs and the safety of the breastfeeding infant.

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 can I take for a cold 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.

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.

What cold medicines dont affect breastfeeding?

Dextromethorphan. This cold medicine is considered safe for breastfeeding moms and babies. Options like Robitussin, Delsym, Triaminic and Vicks DayQuil Cough are unlikely to affect your supply and have no reported infant side effects.

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.

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.

Can you take Mucinex cold and flu 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.

Will DayQuil dry up breast milk?

Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers and non-drowsy antihistamines are generally okay, but you should avoid NyQuil, Benadryl, Sudafed, and DayQuil while breastfeeding. These drugs can hinder your supply, harm the baby, or make it unsafe for you to hold your baby.

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.

Can you breastfeed with Tylenol cold and Flu?

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.