Cold Medications While Breastfeeding
Disclaimer: These are general guidelines based on the current research on what is considered likely safe for breastfeeding and does not constitute medical advice. Please discuss these medications with your doctor. Always check cold medications for the active ingredients as they are often a combination of multiple colds meds that may or may not be safe for breastfeeding.
It’s that time of year again and if there’s anything that’s more miserable than a having a cold, it’s having a cold while you’re breastfeeding and responsible for a little one! Knowing what is safe to take while breastfeeding can be tricky because we have limited data on safety as pregnant and breastfeeding women are generally excluded from safety trials. Always check with your doctor if you have questions about specific medications. LactMed, Infant Risk Center, Mother To Baby, and Dr. Hale’s “Medications and Mother’s Milk” book are wonderful resources for more information with the latest data on medications and breastfeeding!
✅ Likely Safe: (for short periods, in standard dosing) ✅
Acetaminophen/Tylenol (pain relief/fever reducer)
Ibuprofen/Advil (pain relief/fever reducer)
Dextromethorphan (cough suppressant often found in Robitussin)
Phenylephrine (decongestant)
Guaifenesin (expectorant often found in Mucinex)
Nasal saline spray
Herbs: Echinacea, elderberry
Foods: Garlic, honey, cayenne
Vitamins and supplements: Zinc, Vitamin C, Vitamin D
❌ AVOID ❌
Aspirin (pain relief/fever reducer that can cause problems for the infant when a parent takes in high doses)
Pseudoephedrine (decongestant often found in Sudafed, can reduce milk supply)
Doxylamine succinate/Unisom (antihistamine, can cause drowsiness and possibly lower milk supply)
Diphenhydramine/Benadryl (antihistamine, can cause drowsiness and possibly lower milk supply)
Codeine (pain reliever that can cause CNS depression in infants)
For more information: