Cold Medicine Safety While Breastfeeding

Cold Medicine While Breastfeeding: What Ontario Parents Need to Know

When you're nursing and dealing with a stuffy nose or sore throat, you want relief but worry about what's safe for your baby. The good news? Many cold medicines are perfectly fine to take while breastfeeding, though some work better than others.

What's safe and what's not

Most over-the-counter cold medications are considered safe during breastfeeding because only tiny amounts pass into your milk. Your pharmacist and doctor can guide you toward the best options, but here's what generally gets the green light.

Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are your go-to pain and fever relievers. They're both safe for nursing mothers and can help with body aches and headaches that come with colds. For stuffy noses, saline sprays work great and have zero risk. Some decongestant nasal sprays are also okay for short-term use.

When it comes to cough suppressants, dextromethorphan (found in many cough syrups) is generally considered safe. Throat lozenges and warm salt water gargles can soothe a sore throat without any medication concerns.

What to be careful with

Some medications need more caution. Pseudoephedrine, a common decongestant, can reduce your milk supply, especially if you're already struggling with production. It's not dangerous for your baby, but it might affect feeding.

Antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) can make both you and your baby drowsy. They're not harmful, but the sleepiness might interfere with safe co-sleeping or nighttime care.

Always avoid combination medications with multiple ingredients unless your healthcare provider says they're okay. It's harder to know what you're getting, and you might end up taking something you don't need.

Natural options that work

Sometimes the gentlest approach is best. Honey (for you, not baby) soothes coughs and sore throats. Warm chicken soup really does help with congestion. Getting extra rest, staying hydrated, and using a humidifier can make a big difference too.

Drinking warm tea with lemon can ease throat irritation, and the extra fluids help keep your milk supply steady.

When to check with someone

If your symptoms last more than a week, you develop a high fever, or you're unsure about any medication, reach out to your healthcare provider. They can recommend specific brands and doses that work well for nursing mothers.

The takeaway

Having a cold while breastfeeding is tough, but you have safe options for relief. You don't have to suffer through it completely medication-free.

You can always text Arlo and talk to a provider in 5 minutes!

References - [Medications and breastfeeding](https://caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/pregnancy-and-babies/medicationsandbreastfeeding)

- [Cold and flu treatment while breastfeeding](https://aboutkidshealth.ca/article?contentid=631&language=english)

- [Breastfeeding and medication safety](https://www.ontario.ca/page/breastfeeding-your-baby#section-4)