Breastfeeding and Taking Allergy,Cold and Cough Medicines

Is it safe for a breastfeeding mom to take allergy, cold or cough medicines while breastfeeding? That was something I was wondering about the other day when a breastfeeding mom called and asked me about it. Many breastfeeding moms question the safety of allergy, cold and cough medicines while breastfeeding. When breastfeeding, what you put in your mouth goes directly to your baby. So, it is valid for a new mom to wonder about this. What are the side effects for breastfeeding moms to their baby when they take allergy, cold or cough medicines?Here are some examples: Pseudoephedrine such as Sudafed might reduce production of breast milk since it works by constricting blood vessels, which could restrict the blood flow needed for milk production. Medications such as Benadryl and Chlor-Trimeton can cause sleepiness or drowsiness in your baby. Anything that causes you the mom to be drowsy is not recommended to take because it will also cause your baby to be sleepy. Claritin and Allegra are a little better. Acetaminophen such as Tylenol is compatible with breastfeeding. Ibuprofen such as Advil, Motrin or Nuprin are all right to take in small amounts. Guaifenesin such as Robitussin, Delusym and Benylin are considered compatible with breastfeeding. Aleve is also approved for breastfeeding. Aspirin should not be taken while breastfeeding. Any kind of a sore throat and cough drops should be avoided in excessive amounts.They contain menthol. Large amounts of menthol can reduce milk supply. Nyquil contains ingredients including acetaminophen, dextromethorphan, doxylamine succinate and alcohol. Alcohol's purpose here is to act as a solvent, which is to help blend all three ingredients together. Alcohol in breast milk exposes you baby to health concerns. Once alcohol is consumed, it takes many hours for it to leave a mom's system. Furthermore, mom should pump and dump her milk for a few hours afterwards. Therefore, I do not recommend taking this drug because I am totally against having to pump and dump you breastmilk for no good reason. You breastmilk is precious and valuable and none of it should be wasted. Herbal medications are not recommended while breastfeeding, such as cold remedies. The Food and Drug Administration, FDA, does not regulate their safety.Therefore, many products cannot be confirmed whether it is safe or not to use while breastfeeding. Of course, I am not a doctor and you should always consult your doctor about any medication or drug you are taking while breastfeeding including herbal medications. Common colds will run its course and last about anywhere from a few days to two weeks. Try to get plenty of rest and drink lots of water. Taking extra Vitamin C is great however, consult your doctor first. Hot baths and using a humidifier are also good to do. Wash you hands well before caring for your baby.Take extra time for yourself when you have a cold. I know it is hard to do when you have a baby but, try to love yourself. Remember, you are important. You need to feel well in order to help you baby. I just called and a very sweet person. She told me that there are two people who will take your calls if needed to answer any questions you have about breastfeeding on allergy, cough or cold medications. PLEASE CALL INFANT RISK CENTER 1-806-352-2519. In conclusion, never take any cold, allergy or cough medicine without calling either your doctor or your baby's doctor first. Try to take small amounts of these medications only when necessary.There is still a lot of research still needed to be done about the safety of medications while breastfeeding. Therefore, read the ingredients carefully before using them.