11/06/2025
Youâve got a cold⌠and youâre breastfeeding. Now what?
â
Safe medications while breastfeeding
These are commonly used cold and flu medications that are considered compatible with breastfeeding:
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) â Safe for pain and fever when used at standard doses.
Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) â Also safe and a great anti-inflammatory option.
Dextromethorphan (DM) â Found in many cough syrups; safe in usual doses.
Guaifenesin â Helps loosen mucus; considered low-risk.
Saline sprays or rinses â 100% safe and surprisingly effective.
Topical nasal sprays (like oxymetazoline/Afrin) â Minimal absorption and safe for short-term use (3 days or less).
All of these are supported by the LactMed Database from the U.S. National Library of Medicine, a trusted resource for evidence-based breastfeeding medication safety.
â ď¸ Medications to use with caution
1. Oral decongestants
Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) and phenylephrine can help with congestion, but theyâve also been shown to lower prolactin levels â the hormone that supports milk production. Even a single dose of pseudoephedrine may reduce milk volume for some nursing parents.
If youâre in the early postpartum period or working to maintain your supply, itâs best to avoid these medications unless absolutely necessary.
2. Combination cold medicines
Multi-symptom products (the ones labeled âSevere Cold + Flu,â for example) often contain several active ingredients â including antihistamines or alcohol-based syrups â that can cause drowsiness or irritability in your baby.
When possible, choose single-ingredient products so you can target symptoms one by one.
3. Herbal and ânaturalâ remedies
Just because something is labeled ânaturalâ doesnât always mean itâs safe during lactation. Herbal blends, essential oils, and certain supplements can transfer through breastmilk or impact supply. Always check with your healthcare provider or IBCLC before trying an herbal remedy.
