Many over-the-counter cold medications are generally considered safe during breastfeeding,
according to ACOG.
Table of contents
Safe Options
- Pain Relievers: Most are safe.
- Nasal Sprays: Generally considered safe.
- Antihistamines: Most are safe.
Medications to Avoid
Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) may lower milk production. Consult
InfantRisk Center for more information.
Navigating Cold Symptoms While Nursing
It’s important to prioritize your health while breastfeeding, both for your well-being and your baby’s. When you’re feeling under the weather with a cold, it’s tempting to reach for medication to alleviate your symptoms. However, being mindful of what you ingest is crucial to ensure your breast milk remains safe for your little one.
Tips for Managing Cold Symptoms Naturally
Before turning to medication, consider these natural remedies that can help ease your symptoms:
- Rest: Getting plenty of sleep allows your body to recover faster.
- Hydration: Drinking lots of fluids (water, herbal teas, clear broths) helps to thin mucus and keep you hydrated.
- Steam Inhalation: Inhaling steam can help to relieve congestion. You can use a humidifier, take a hot shower, or create a steam bath with a bowl of hot water.
- Saline Nasal Spray: This can help to clear nasal passages without medication.
- Honey (for adults): A spoonful of honey can soothe a sore throat and help to suppress coughs. (Note: Honey is not safe for infants under one year of age.)
Choosing the Right Medication: What to Consider
If natural remedies aren’t providing enough relief, and you decide to take medication, keep the following in mind:
- Single-Ingredient Medications: Opt for medications that treat only the specific symptoms you’re experiencing. Avoid combination medications that contain multiple ingredients you don’t need.
- Short-Acting Formulas: Choose short-acting formulas over extended-release versions. Short-acting medications are cleared from your system more quickly, reducing the amount that could potentially pass into your breast milk.
- Timing: Take medication immediately after breastfeeding or during your baby’s longest sleep period to minimize exposure.
- Consult Your Doctor or Lactation Consultant: The best approach is to discuss your symptoms and medication options with your doctor or a lactation consultant. They can provide personalized advice based on your individual situation and your baby’s age and health;
Specific Medications and Breastfeeding
Here’s a more detailed look at some common cold medication categories and their safety during breastfeeding:
- Decongestants: As mentioned previously, pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) can reduce milk supply in some women. Phenylephrine is another decongestant, but it is generally considered less effective. Consider using a nasal spray decongestant instead, as it is less likely to affect milk supply.
- Antihistamines: Some antihistamines, especially first-generation antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton), can cause drowsiness in both you and your baby. They can also potentially reduce milk supply. Second-generation antihistamines like loratadine (Claritin) and cetirizine (Zyrtec) are generally considered safer choices as they are less likely to cause drowsiness or affect milk supply.
- Pain Relievers/Fever Reducers: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) are generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. Follow the recommended dosage instructions. Aspirin should be avoided unless specifically recommended by your doctor.
- Cough Suppressants: Dextromethorphan (Robitussin DM) is generally considered safe, but use it sparingly. Guaifenesin (Mucinex) is an expectorant that can help to loosen mucus, and is also generally considered safe.
When to Seek Medical Attention
It’s important to know when your cold symptoms warrant a visit to the doctor. Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- High fever (above 101°F or 38.3°C)
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Severe headache
- Persistent cough
- Symptoms that worsen or don’t improve after a week
Remember, your health is important for both you and your baby. Don’t hesitate to seek professional medical advice to ensure you receive the best possible care while breastfeeding.
