Breastfeeding and Cold Medicine

The topic of breastfeeding and cold medicine often comes up during cold and flu season. I am frequently asked this question: What can I take for my cold or allergies while breast feeding?

Let me answer by explaining a few things.First, everything you ingest has the potential to make it to your breastmilk. But your body metabolizes/breaks down medicines before it can make it to baby.

So, most medicines ingested are in VERY small amounts when baby ingests them.

Many people incorrectly assume that if a medication is over the counter it must be safe. Or "its just for a runny nose" it must be ok. This is not the case when lactating.What you CANNOT take while nursing:

1. Antihistamines (allergy medications like benedryl, zyrtec, claritin to name a few) OR Decongestants (like sudafed). Both of these medications have been documented to cause low milk supply in as little as one dose.

2. Herbal Remedies. Herbs are not FDA approved or monitored. Many herbs are not safe for baby to ingest.

What can you do for a cold then?

1. Humidifier: warm or cold

2. Saline nasal spray for congestion or better yet, use a neti pot.

3. Lots of warm fluids to drink

4. Eat lots of fruits and vegetables

5. Continue to take your prenatal vitamins

You should consider being evaluated by a doctor if your running fever over 104 degrees, have a sore throat, have a cough that keeps you up at night or is productive, or have any other symptoms that are bothersome to you.

A secondary infection can arise from the common cold. If this does occur, keep in mind that most antibiotics are completely safe while breastfeeding. BUT.....

There is no hard and fast rule about certain groups of medicines being ok or not ok. We must look at each medications individually. There is a resource called Medications and Mothers Milk that I can reference to look up meds to help you decide if you can give your baby breastmilk while on the medication.

This is why it is so important for you to work with a lactation consultant the entire time you breastfeed so she can work with you on an as needed basis in situations exactly like this.

Hope this answers your questions about:claritin and breastfeedingzyrtec and breastfeeding

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