The Scoop on Cold and Flu Meds While You’re Breastfeeding
Hey there, new mom! If you're currently nursing your little one and have come down with a nasty cold or flu (or preparing for the upcoming flu season), you're probably wondering what's safe to take to ease those awful symptoms. The good news is that there are options available to help you feel better without compromising your breastfeeding journey. So, let’s chat about what you can do to stay comfy and keep your baby safe.
Check in with Your Doc
Before you start any meds, it's always a good idea to touch base with your healthcare provider. They know your unique health situation, and they can offer personalized advice on what's best for you and your baby.
Home Remedies First
Don't forget, sometimes you can get relief from your symptoms without popping any pills. Here are some simple at-home remedies:
Hydration: Sip on water, herbal teas, and clear broths to stay hydrated.
Rest: As much as you can, get some rest to help your body bounce back.
Steamy sessions: Breathe in some steam from a bowl of hot water with a few drops of essential oils to clear that congestion - I also looove a humidifier.
Saline nasal drops: These can help clear your stuffy nose safely.
Safe OTC Medications
If home remedies aren't cutting it, there are over-the-counter (OTC) medications that are generally safe for breastfeeding moms if you follow the instructions. I have detailed safety information below!
Here's a rundown:
Acetaminophen (Tylenol): It's your go-to for pain and fever, and it's usually A-OK when you're nursing.
Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin): Another one for pain and fever; it's usually considered safe for short-term use while breastfeeding.
Antihistamines: Some second-gen antihistamines like loratadine (Claritin) or cetirizine (Zyrtec) are generally cool for breastfeeding. Just keep older-gen ones like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) on the back burner unless you talk to your healthcare provider first.
Decongestants: Pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine are common decongestant ingredients that can be safe in moderation and for a short time. But don't overdo it – and again, chat with your doc.
What to Stay Away From
While there are some safe options, there are also things to avoid:
Aspirin: Steer clear of aspirin; it can find its way into your breast milk and potentially be a no-go for your baby.
Codeine and hydrocodone: These opioids can affect your little one with drowsiness and other side effects. If prescribed these, consult your healthcare provider for alternatives.
Decongestants and cough syrups with alcohol: These can be a problem for your baby, so they're a "nope." They can also tank your milk supply… so that a no from me!
Dosage Details
Whatever you take, always stick to the recommended dosage on the label. Less is more, and it's better to use the smallest effective dose for the shortest time possible.
Medication Safety Ratings
A man named Dr. Thomas Hale is an expert in breastfeeding and medications and created a safety rating system. This system is like a cheat sheet for breastfeeding moms, helping you figure out if it's safe to take specific meds while nursing.
Here's the lowdown:
L1 (Safest): Think of this as the green light. These meds are your safest bet. They've been studied, and there's pretty much zero risk to your baby.
L2 (Safer): These are like the yellow light. They're still safe for breastfeeding, but there might be a tiny bit of risk. However, the benefits usually outweigh any worries.
L3 (Moderately Safe): These meds are in the middle. There's some risk, but the pros often win. So, they might be okay to use (but there isn’t good evidence for us to know with confidence).
L4 (Possibly Hazardous): Now, we're getting into the spooky zone. These meds have more potential risks, so it's smart to consider alternatives or keep a close eye on things. Always talk to your doctor about these especially - there is evidence of risks to your infant or milk supply.
L5 (Hazardous): This is the red light. Stay away from these while breastfeeding because there is significant risk to your baby. The risks are too high, and there are usually better options.
Safety of Typical Cold/Flu Meds
Pain and Fever:
Tylenol (Acetaminophen) L1 - safest
Advil, Motrin (Ibuprofen) L1 - safest
Cough, Cold, Allergies
Antihistamines:
Claritin, Alavert (loratadine) L1 - safest
Allegra (fexofenadine) L2 - safer
Zyrtec (Cetirizine) L2 - safer
Benadryl (Diphenhydramine) L2 - safer, but can potentially impact supply especially if taken for an extended period of time
Decongestants
Afrin Nasal Spray (Oxymetazoline) L3 - probably safe, but limit to 3 days
AVOID Pseudophedrine and Phenylephrine as they may decrease milk supply
Steroids
Medrol dose pack (Methylprednisolone), Oral Prednisone (<40mg/day) L2 - safer
Kenalog shot (triamcinolone) L3 - probably safe
Rhinocort Nasal Spray (Budesonide) L1 - safest
Nasal Sprays (Flonase, Nasacort, Nasonex) L3 - probably safe
Cough Medicine
Throat Spray (Benzocaine) L2 - safer
Cough Drops - safe but limit menthol
Mucinex (Guaifenesin) L2 - safe
Robitussin DM (Dextromethorphan) L3 - probably safe
AVOID Benzonatate (L4) - possibly hazardous
You don't have to grin and bear it when you're sick and breastfeeding. With the green light from your healthcare provider and by playing it safe with dosage and usage, you can get some relief while continuing to provide the best care for your baby. If you ever have any questions, reach out to your doctor. Stay comfy, and know that you're doing a fantastic job!
