Phenylephrine, an ingredient in pediatric cough and cold preparations, is considered safe. While excretion into breast milk is unknown, it is unlikely to be excreted into breast milk in large quantities due to its poor bioavailability.

Why is phenylephrine bad for breastfeeding?

Phenyephrine is poorly bioavailability (not well absorbed from the gut) so it is not likely to produce effects in a breastfed infant with normal doses. Because of pseudoephedrine's effect on milk production, concerns exist that phenylephrine may suppress milk although there is no evidence that this occurs.

Does phenylephrine reduce milk supply?

Summary of Use during Lactation

The oral bioavailability of phenylephrine is only about 40%,[1] so the drug is unlikely to reach the infant in large amounts. However, intravenous or oral administration of phenylephrine might decrease milk production.

What nasal decongestants are safe while breastfeeding?

Afrin (oxymetazoline) nasal spray is a nasal decongestant that can be used safely while breastfeeding.

What can I take for congestion while breastfeeding?

Safe Cold Medicines While Breast-Feeding

Pseudoephedrine and phenylephedrine are oral decongestants for treating nasal congestion caused by colds, allergies, and sinus infections. Both ingredients are common in over-the-counter medications and considered safe while breast-feeding.

The Dos & Don'ts of Medicine While Breastfeeding

32 related questions found

Can I take Bioflu while breastfeeding?

Bioflu^® is not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women. As a general precaution, we strongly recommend that you consult your doctor before taking medicines especially if you are pregnant or breasfeeding. Your doctor will be in the best position to give the appropriate medical advice.

Is phenylephrine hydrochloride a decongestant?

Phenylephrine is in a class of medications called nasal decongestants. It works by reducing swelling of the blood vessels in the nasal passages.

Is Decolgen Forte safe for breastfeeding mom?

These medicines are contraindicated if the patient is pregnant or breastfeeding. Paracetamol, when taken within the recommended dose and duration of treatment, has low incidence of side effects. Skin rashes and minor stomach and intestinal disturbances have been reported.

Do decongestants dry up breast milk?

Pseudoephedrine, or Sudafed, is a common over-the-counter decongestant. Research shows the Sudafed causes a noticeable decrease in milk production. Like birth control, Sudafed should only be used to suppress lactation under the supervision of a doctor.

Can I take phenylephrine while pregnant?

Pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine are pregnancy category C in all three trimesters of pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) recommend using pseudoephedrine during pregnancy.

What are the side effects of phenylephrine?

Mild upset stomach, trouble sleeping, dizziness, lightheadedness, headache, nervousness, shaking, or fast heartbeat may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. This product may reduce blood flow to your hands or feet, causing them to feel cold.

Can breastfeeding moms take Sudafed PE?

Sudafed does pass into breast milk. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, it's still likely safe to take Sudafed while breastfeeding, though. The risks to a child who is breastfed are thought to be low.

Does Zyrtec dry up breast milk?

It is not known if other decongestants can decrease milk supply. High doses of sedating antihistamines have been reported by mothers to decrease milk production, but there is no scientific proof this occurs. Some allergy medications may have both an antihistamine and a decongestant in them.

What happens if you accidentally take phenylephrine while pregnant?

Decongestants: Pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine (Sudafed, DayQuil, Claritin-D), especially if taken during the first trimester, may cause stomach defects or affect blood flow to the placenta — though some doctors will recommend in limited amounts in the second and third trimesters.

Which Sudafed dries up breast milk?

Sudafed. In a small study in 2003 of 8 lactating women, a single 60-milligram (mg) dose of the cold medicine pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) was shown to significantly reduce milk production.

Is mucinex safe for breastfeeding?

The expectorant guaifenesin and the cough suppressant dextromethorphan are often found together in products like Mucinex DM or Robitussin DM. Both of these medications are okay to take while breastfeeding. Small, occasional doses of antihistamines are acceptable while nursing.

Is it OK to take Benadryl while breastfeeding?

Benadryl is used to temporarily relieve the symptoms of allergies, hay fever, or the common cold. It's generally safe to use. However, Benadryl can pass through breast milk and affect your child. So, it's not the best choice if you're breastfeeding.

Is Neozep Forte safe for breastfeeding mom?

Neozep Forte: May cause drowsiness; patients should observe caution while driving or performing other tasks requiring alertness. Contraindicated if the patient is pregnant or breastfeeding.

What cold medicine is safe while breastfeeding?

Cold medicines that are considered safe to take while breastfeeding include:

• Acetaminophen.
• Ibuprofen.
• Zyrtec (cetirizine)
• Nasal sprays that contain Afrin (oxymetazoline), Flonase, Nasacort (steroids), or plain saline.

Is Neozep a decongestant?

Neozep^® Non-Drowsy

Phenylephrine HCl a nasal decongestant clears obstructed air passages and nasal sinuses due to congestion making breathing easier. It also reduces postnasal drip. Paracetamol is an effective fever reducer and pain reliever.

Can babies have phenylephrine?

The recommended dosing for phenylephrine nasal drops is 1 to 2 drops of 0.16% solution in each nostril every three hours as needed in infants older than 6 months; in children aged under 6 years, the dosing is 2 to 3 drops of 0.125% solution in each nostril every four hours as needed.

Is phenylephrine good for sinus infection?

Phenylephrine is used for the temporary relief of stuffy nose, sinus, and ear symptoms caused by the common cold, flu, allergies, or other breathing illnesses (e.g., sinusitis, bronchitis). This medication works by decreasing swelling in the nose and ears, thereby lessening discomfort and making it easier to breathe.

How does phenylephrine help with nasal congestion?

Phenylephrine is a decongestant that shrinks blood vessels in the nasal passages. Dilated blood vessels can cause nasal congestion (stuffy nose). Phenylephrine nasal is used to treat nasal congestion and sinus pressure caused by allergies, the common cold, or the flu.

Can I take Lemsip while breastfeeding?

The product should not be used during pregnancy unless recommended by a healthcare professional (see section 4.6). Use during breastfeeding should be avoided, unless recommended by a healthcare professional (see section 4.6).

Does Tamiflu dry up breast milk?

For women who are breastfeeding with suspected or confirmed flu, treatment with oral oseltamivir is currently preferred. Available data indicate that oseltamivir is poorly excreted in breast milk.