What cough syrups are safe for a breastfeeding mother to use?

From the Guidelines

Breastfeeding mothers can safely use dextromethorphan-only cough syrups, such as Sinecod syrup or Robitussin for dry coughs, as they have minimal transfer into breast milk and are unlikely to affect the baby. When considering cough syrups for breastfeeding mothers, it's essential to prioritize medications with low risk of transfer into breast milk and minimal side effects on the baby. According to the study by Molassiotis et al. 1, dextromethorphan is a suitable option, with a recommended dosage of 10-15 mg tid or qid.

Some key points to consider when using cough syrups while breastfeeding include:

• Choosing alcohol-free formulations to minimize potential harm to the baby
• Avoiding multi-symptom products containing antihistamines, decongestants like pseudoephedrine, or codeine, as these ingredients may reduce milk supply or cause drowsiness in the baby
• Taking the medication right after nursing to minimize the amount that reaches the milk
• Considering non-medication approaches like staying hydrated, using a humidifier, and consuming honey (if not allergic) to manage cough symptoms

It's also important to note that the study by Molassiotis et al. 1 suggests that glycerol-based cough syrups may also be an appropriate treatment option, although more research is needed to confirm their effectiveness. If the cough persists beyond a week or is accompanied by high fever or difficulty breathing, it's crucial to consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.

From the FDA Drug Label

If pregnant or breast-feeding, ask a health professional before use. The FDA drug label does not answer the question.

From the Research

Safe Cough Syrups for Breastfeeding Mothers

When it comes to choosing a cough syrup while breastfeeding, it's essential to consider the safety of the ingredients for the baby. According to 2, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) considers codeine a compatible choice for short-term use as a cough suppressant. Additionally, pseudoephedrine and triprolidine are also considered safe for breastfeeding mothers.

Ingredients to Avoid

Some ingredients in cough syrups can be harmful to breastfed infants. For example:

• Aspirin has been associated with significant negative effects on some nursing infants, and its use should be cautious 2.
• Many liquid cough and cold products contain alcohol, which should be avoided by breastfeeding mothers 2.
• Combination products that contain multiple ingredients, such as antihistamines and decongestants, may also contain aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or caffeine, which should be used with caution 2.

General Guidelines

When taking medications while breastfeeding, mothers should:

• Take their medication after breastfeeding, at the lowest effective dose, and for the shortest duration 2.
• Avoid combination products and only take medications that are necessary 2.
• Be aware of the potential risks and benefits of each medication and monitor their baby for any adverse effects 3.

Specific Cough Syrups

While there is limited information on specific cough syrups, some studies suggest that:

• Dextromethorphan, an ingredient in some cough syrups, has been shown to be safe in pregnancy 4.
• However, other ingredients, such as promethazine, diphenhydramine, and ephedrine, may be contraindicated in children less than two years old 5.