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- What can I take for mucus and cough while breastfeeding?
- What cold medicines should you avoid while breastfeeding?
- How to get rid of a cold while breastfeeding?
- Why is Zyrtec not recommended for breastfeeding?
- What type of Mucinex is safe during pregnancy?
- What is the safest decongestant for breastfeeding?
- Do decongestants dry up breast milk?
- Can I take Mucinex if I’m breastfeeding?
- What expectorant can a breastfeeding mother take?
- What to do if breastfeeding mom gets cold and cough?
Is Mucinex Safe for Breastfeeding?
Based on the information gathered from various reputable sources, Mucinex (guaifenesin) is generally considered safe for use while breastfeeding.
The key points are:
1. Mucinex is Unlikely to Pose Significant Risk: Most healthcare providers consider Mucinex to be in the safer category for breastfeeding mothers. When taken as directed, it is unlikely to pose a significant risk to a nursing infant, particularly those over two months old.
2. Avoid Decongestants: However, Mucinex products that contain decongestants like phenylephrine should be avoided, as decongestants can decrease milk production in nursing mothers.
3. Consult Your Doctor: Before taking any medication while breastfeeding, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor first to review any potential risks or concerns specific to your situation.
In summary, the guaifenesin in regular Mucinex is considered safe for breastfeeding, but you should avoid Mucinex formulations that contain decongestants. As always, it’s best to consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.
What can I take for mucus and cough while breastfeeding?
Medicines containing either dextromethorphan or guaifenesin (an “expectorant” that thins mucus) can help quell a cough, and they’re unlikely to impact your breastmilk supply. (Learn ways to improve your breastmilk supply.)
What cold medicines should you avoid while breastfeeding?
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.
How to get rid of a cold while breastfeeding?
Try the following to help the discomfort of a cold or a sore throat when breastfeeding:
- Take honey and lemon mixed in hot water, or sip on other warm fluids like natural teas to keep your throat moist.
- Gargle some salt water.
- If you have a cough, try a cough medicine that is based on glycerine and honey.
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 type of Mucinex is safe during pregnancy?
Mucinex, Mucinex D, Mucinex DM, and the extra-strength versions of each, because the six forms of Mucinex contain guaifenesin. Avoid taking any of these during the first trimester of pregnancy. However, they may be safe to use during later trimesters.
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.
Do decongestants dry up breast milk?
The American Academy of Paediatrics considers the drug safe during breastfeeding [2], but there are very few studies of the use of decongestants during breastfeeding [3]. Nevertheless, anecdotally, many lactation consultants report that pseudoephedrine use results in decreased milk production [4].
Can I take Mucinex if I’m breastfeeding?
What cold medicines are 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).
What expectorant can a breastfeeding mother take?
Expectorant cough mixtures
Guaifenesin is used to relieve a chesty cough. There is very little data on the safety of guaifenesin when you are breastfeeding but the levels in your milk at normal doses are unlikely to cause harm to your child, especially if they are over 2 months of age.
What to do if breastfeeding mom gets cold and cough?
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.
