Safe Cold Medicines for Breastfeeding Mothers
- Paracetamol or Acetaminophen. Medicines with the active compound acetaminophen like Tylenol, Crocin, etc., can be taken for a cold while breastfeeding.
- Ibuprofen. Ibuprofen is considered safe for the baby and only passes on to the baby in micro-quantities, which does not harm.
- Dextromethorphan. ...
- Bromhexine and Guaifenesin. ...
- Amoxicillin. ...
- Zinc Gluconate. ...
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol, others)
- Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others)
- Naproxen (Naprosyn) — short-term use only.
What drugs and medications are safe for breastfeeding moms?
- If a drug is needed, prescribe it at the lowest effective dose. ...
- Select alternative routes or products to minimise systemic exposure in the mother. ...
- Choose drugs with a relatively short half-life, such as sertraline rather than fluoxetine, to minimise drug exposure in milk.
What medicines are safe for breastfeeding?
Safe Medication Use During Breastfeeding
- Drugs Reported as Safe During Breastfeeding in Normal Doses. OTC; used for pain/fever/headache; amounts in milk are much less than doses usually given to infants.
- Other Common Medications Used in Breastfeeding. In general, data is limited for the effects of these drugs on a breastfeeding infant. ...
- See Also. ...
- Further information. ...
What medications can you take while breastfeeding?
Yes, some safe cold medicines to take while breastfeeding include:
- cough & sore throat medicines
- fever, inflammation and pain medicines during cold or flu
- pain meds for cold
- an antibiotic for cold — amoxicillin
- antihistamines
Is it safe to take medicine while breastfeeding?
You might have heard that it is not safe to take any medicine while pregnant or nursing. While this is true for some medications, there are allergy medicines that are safe during breastfeeding. And so you don’t need to suffer through the allergy symptoms while breastfeeding.
Do All Medications Pass Into Breast Milk?
Almost any drug that's present in your blood will transfer into your breast milk to some extent. However, most medications do so at low levels and...
Does My Baby's Health and Age Influence How He Or She Might Be Affected by Exposure to Medication in My Breast Milk?
Yes. Exposure to medication in breast milk poses the greatest risk to premature babies, newborns, and babies who are medically unstable or have poo...
Should I Stop Breast-Feeding While Taking medication?
Most medications are safe to take while breast-feeding. Also, the benefit of continuing to take a medication for a chronic condition while breast-f...
What Medications Are Safe to Take While breast-feeding?
With your health care provider's input, consider this list of medications found to be safe during breast-feeding. Keep in mind that this isn't a co...
Do I Need My Health Care Provider's OK Ahead of time?
If you plan to take medication while breast-feeding, it's always best to check with your health care provider first. Avoid taking medications that...
What If My Baby Has A reaction?
When you're taking medication, be sure to watch your baby for any unusual signs or symptoms — such as a change in eating or sleeping habits, fussin...
When to take medication after feeding?
When possible, take medications that are given only once a day right after a feeding when your baby will have the longest period without nursing; for many women this is the last feeding of the night before the infant's bedtime.
How long can you breastfeed exclusively?
There are benefits for mom, too: it increases bonding and relaxation, can be a cost-saver, and provides health benefits like a lowered risk of breast and ovarian cancers. Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for at least 6 months by most experts, and extended to 12 months while introducing other foods.
How long can you breastfeed with sumatriptan?
Experts and labeling suggest to withhold breastfeeding for 8 hours (12 hours from manufacturer). Sumatriptan would not be expected to cause any adverse effects in most breastfed infants. Tetracyclines like have high calcium binding and low absorption in the infant, due to calcium binding in milk.
What is the best medicine for low milk levels?
warfarin. Coumadin. Rx; used to treat or prevent blood clots. Very low milk levels occur with warfarin doses up to at least 12 mg daily. No side effects in breastfed infants have been reported from maternal warfarin use during breastfeeding, even with a dose of 25 mg daily for 7 days.
What is the name of the protein that is inactivated and destroyed in the digestive tract of the infant if taken
Insulin, including newer biosynthetic insulins (aspart, detemir, glargine, glulisine, lispro) is a protein that is inactivated and destroyed in the digestive tract of the infant if taken by mouth. Laxatives, bulk-forming and stool softening. Metamucil (psyllium), Colace (docusate) OTC; used to treat constipation.
Can a postpartum IV cause lactation?
Rx; used for prevention and control of seizures in pre-eclampsia and eclampsia. Postpartum IV use longer than 6 hours may delay onset of lactation.
Can you take aspirin while breastfeeding?
In general, aspirin use is best avoided during breastfeeding. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be safer for pain relief. Some expert opinion indicates that low-dose (75 to 325 mg daily) aspirin may be used as a blood thinning agent for use in breastfeeding women who require it.
What medications can you take while breastfeeding?
Other medicines that can be taken while breastfeeding include: most antibiotics. common painkillers, such as paracetamol and ibuprofen — but not aspirin. some birth control methods.
What are the most common medications that aren't safe to take while breastfeeding?
Unsafe medications while breastfeeding. The most widely spread drugs that aren't recommended when you're breastfeeding include: codeine phosphate. aspirin for pain relief. Talk to you GP or pharmacist before taking antihistamines for allergies or allergy-related conditions, such as hay fever.
Why do you pump breast milk?
Pumping and dumping your breast milk may help you in keeping up your milk supply so that you have enough milk when you begin nursing your baby again .
How does medicine affect breast milk?
The quantity of medicine that may transfer into your breast milk and the way it may affect your baby depends on various factors including the age of your baby, the type of medicine you are taking, the dose of the medicine and the way you are taking the medicine. Possible adverse effects your baby may have from medication while breastfeeding includes vomiting, diarrhea, unusual sleeping, and irritability. Furthermore, certain medicines may reduce the production of your breast milk, possibly leading to decreased weight gain in your baby.
Is breastfeeding a risk for a newborn?
Exposure to medications while breastfeeding poses the highest risk to newborns, babies who are unstable medically, premature babies or babies whose kidney function is poor. The risk is lowest in healthy babies, who are six months or older as they may move the medicine through their system efficiently.
Does smoking marijuana affect breast milk?
Yes, smoking marijuana may affect breast milk. Most health experts, including the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists, advise that nursing mothers should abstain from smoking marijuana. It is a fact that babies are more vulnerable than adults to toxins and chemicals.
Can breastfeeding cause weight gain?
Furthermore, certain medicines may reduce the production of your breast milk, possibly leading to decreased weight gain in your baby. Exposure to medications while breastfeeding poses ...
What is the name of the database for breastfeeding?
You can also check out the National Library of Medicine's Drug and Lactation database ( LactMed ), the Infant Risk Center or MotherRisk for more information on which medications are safe and which aren't when you're breastfeeding your little one.
What medications can cause drowsiness in infants?
Laxatives (Metamucil, Colace) Antihistamines (such as Claritin; Benadryl is also safe but may cause infant drowsiness) Decongestants (Afrin, Allegra, and so on), but not those containing pseudoephedrine, which can decrease milk supply. Most antibiotics.
Can you breastfeed if you are sick?
Breastfeeding When You're Sick. Postpartum Urinary Tract Infections (UTI) Conquering Postpartum Constipation. In the meantime, just about every OTC and pre scription medication simply carries a warning (on the label, package or both) to consult a doctor before taking it if you're nursing.
Can you stop a baby from taking medication while breastfeeding?
In some cases, a less-safe medication can safely be discontinued while a mom is breastfeeding, and in others, it's possible to find a safer substitute. When medication that isn't compatible with breastfeeding is needed short-term, ...
Can sudafed reduce milk supply?
And some medications should be avoided because they can reduce your milk supply, including (but not limited to): Pseudoephedrine, an antihistamine (Sudafed) The research jury is still out on other medications (certain classes of antihistamines, for instance, or some antidepressants).
Can you take ibuprofen while breastfeeding?
The most recent research indicates that most medications can be used safely during breastfeeding. These include (but are not limited to): Most medications for chronic conditions (such as for asthma, heart conditions, thyroid disease, high blood pressure and diabetes) Acetaminophen (Tylenol) Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
Do drug makers have to disclose breast milk?
Under the new rules, drug-makers must disclose the amount of the drug that ends up in breast milk and any potential side effects on breastfed babies, along with details on any human and animal studies that have been done and any adverse reactions in breastfeeding women.
Is it safe for mothers to use prescription medications while breastfeeding?
Usually. A 2013 clinical report by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), “ The Transfer of Drugs and Therapeutics into Human Breast Milk: An Update on Selected Topics, external icon ” indicates that most medications and immunizations are safe to use during lactation.
Where can I search for specific medications and their safety in mothers while breastfeeding?
The US National Library of Medicine (NLM) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) maintains LactMed® external icon , a database containing information on drugs and other chemicals to which breastfeeding mothers may be exposed.
Why are medications necessary for diabetes?
However, if lifestyle changes aren't sufficient to control the disease, medications will be necessary. This is because the complications and consequences of diabetes are serious; diabetes is the 7th leading cause of death in the US. Medications for diabetes include oral pills, injections and pump delivery.
Can you give a baby Benadryl?
But maybe they should. Diphenhydramine is used for allergies, rashes and is sleeplessness. According to LACTMED, using it occasionally , or in one big dose for a big problem will probably be OK for a nursing baby, given the baby is not a preemie or newborn. However, regular dosing can become problematic for a nursing infant, causing irritability and colicky symptoms in up to 10 percent of babies. It can also cause sedation. For nursing mothers, the news is also not great for diphenhydramine or Benadryl users; the drug can interfere with milk production and decrease it. For those suffering from allergies, there are non-sedating options available. For rashes, doctors should be able to prescribe a cream that won't harm baby or spoil your milk.
How do you know if you have breast milk?
The answer is usually "yes." To provide some simple background information about this topic, briefly, here are some known facts about medicine and breast milk: 1 Nearly all medicines taken by a mother pass into human milk, BUT only in very small amounts--usually less than one percent of the dosage taken by the mother. 2 Because only a very small amount even passes into milk, there are very few drugs that SHOULDN’T be taken by a nursing mother. 3 IN MOST CASES, nursing mothers do not need to interrupt breastfeeding to take prescription or over-the-counter medicines. In the rare situation when you should not take a drug, you may try an alternative drug, a non-drug, or a procedure.
Is it safe to take a drug while pregnant?
Drugs considered safe to take during pregnancy are, with few exceptions, safe to take while nursing. Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy.
Can caffeine cause a fussy baby?
Drinking more than this amount can result in an irritable or fussy baby and a baby with poor sleeping habits. Some babies are sensitive to any amount of caffeine. Remember to consider the amount of caffeine you drink from ALL of your beverages, including coffees, teas, colas, and even chocolate.
Can you take a medicine while breastfeeding?
Two simple general rules that can help you determine if it is safe to take a medicine during breastfeeding are: If a drug is commonly prescribed for infants, it is likely safe to take while nursing, since the baby would generally receive a lower dose from breast milk than from taking the drug directly. Drugs considered safe to take ...
Can a nursing mother take over the counter medication?
Because only a very small amount even passes into milk, there are very few drugs that SHOULDN’T be taken by a nursing mother. IN MOST CASES, nursing mothers do not need to interrupt breastfeeding to take prescription or over-the-counter medicines.
Does alcohol affect breastfeeding?
Moderate-to-hea vy alcohol consumption by a breastfeeding mother has been shown to interfere with the let-down reflex, inhibit milk intake, affect the baby’s motor skill development, slow weight gain, inhibit growth, and cause drowsiness in the baby. Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center.
Can breast milk be passed to human milk?
The answer is usually "yes.". To provide some simple background information about this topic, briefly, here are some known facts about medicine and breast milk: Nearly all medicines taken by a mother pass into human milk, BUT only in very small amounts--usually less than one percent of the dosage taken by the mother.
Can I Breastfeed While Sick?
Yes, you can breastfeed even if you're sick. Breastfeeding while sick is still healthy for you and your baby. Continuing to breastfeed is also a good reminder to keep yourself fully hydrated. You need ample hydration to make breast milk, and it also helps relieve symptoms.
Cold and Allergy Medicine Safe for Breastfeeding
The following medicines are considered safe for nursing parents, but it's always a good idea to check with a healthcare provider or pediatrician before taking any new medications. Some medications can reduce your milk supply. 3
Medications to Avoid
The following are not recommended for nursing parents. Always check with a healthcare provider before taking any new medications, because some medications can reduce your breast milk supply or affect your baby's sleep. 3
Alternative Cold Medicines and Remedies
In addition to common over-the-counter (OTC) medications, some alternative remedies can help treat symptoms of common illnesses (like colds), such as:
Summary
There are a number of OTC and prescription medications available to treat colds and the flu. Some, in small doses and for a short period of time, may be safe, while others can have side effects for both the breastfeeding parent and the baby. The best way to know if a medication is safe for use is to check with a healthcare provider.
A Word From Verywell
Breastfeeding your baby can be a very rewarding and bonding experience, but having a cold or the flu can impact your routine. The best way to get better is to stay calm, rest, and hydrate often.
What drugs should be avoided in a patient with irritability?
Social drugs like nicotine and ethanol should be avoided as these can cause irritability and restlessness. Medicines like Sulphasalazine should be avoided. Drugs like tetracyclines should be avoided where feasible due to the possible dangers of dental staining and negative effects on bone development.
Can you take cytotoxic drugs while breastfeeding?
Potent medicines or medications that travel into breast milk in large amounts should be avoided during breastfeeding. These medications contain cytotoxic agents which are used for cancer treatment — as those used in chemotherapy and can act as immunosuppressants causing suppression of the immune system in babies.
Is it safe to take phenylephrine while nursing?
Many drugs/medicines are unsafe to be taken while nursing. Some of them have been discussed below: Cold and flu medications containing phenylephrine and pseudoephedrine are not recommended. Pseudoephedrine can lower the amount of breastmilk a woman’s body can make.
Can Cimetidine be used in nursing?
Acid-suppressants like Cimetidine have some side effects in babies. So, these should be avoided during nursing. Updated on March 6, 2020. Kate Shkodzik, MD — Obstetrician/Gynecologist, Medical Advisor at Flo.
Can you take cold medicine while breastfeeding?
Yes, some safe cold medicines to take while breastfeeding include: cough & sore throat medicines. fever, inflammation and pain medicines during cold or flu. pain meds for cold. an antibiotic for cold — amoxicillin. antihistamines.
Can you take cold medicine while breastfeeding?
Most cold medicines are considered safe to take while breastfeeding, but since they do enter your milk in small quantities, follow these smart steps to make sure the remedies you take are also safe for baby.
Can menthol reduce milk supply?
Just steer clear of chomping on lots of drops that contain menthol—it can reduce your milk supply. As for popular cold medications, here’s a breakdown of what’s considered safe and what has yet to be tested: Pseudoephedrine has been approved by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
Is it safe to breastfeed with Advil?
Ibuprofen, aka Advil or Motrin, has been approved, and most experts say it’s safe. And whatever you do, keep breastfeeding. Never stop nursing because of a cold—your breastmilk passes antibodies to baby, serving as his or her best defense against catching your illness.
Is it safe to give a baby cough drops?
In general, throat sprays, lozenges and cough drops are considered safe. Just steer clear of chomping on lots of drops that contain menthol—it can reduce your milk supply.
Is Guaifenesin safe for breastfeeding?
Guaifenesin has not been tested on breastfeeding moms, but it’s sometimes given to infants directly. (Often found in Robitussin, Mucinex and more.) Dextromethorphan has been studied in breastfeeding women and is considered safe. (Often found in Alka Seltzer Plus, Tylenol Cough & Cold, Vicks DayQuil and NyQuil and more.)