Can I take Pangdahai throat lozenges while breastfeeding?

Nov 25, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xu Gang
Introduction
Pangdahai Throat Lozenges have the effects of clearing heat and detoxifying, soothing the throat, relieving sore throat, moistening the intestines, and promoting bowel movements. During lactation, if pharyngitis is caused by excessive internal heat ("shanghuo"), it is generally acceptable to take Pangdahai Throat Lozenges as directed by a physician to alleviate symptoms. These lozenges are traditional Chinese medicine preparations with relatively few side effects and high safety, and usually do not affect milk production or the baby's health.

Generally, lozenges containing Radix Scrophulariae (Pang Da Hai) can be taken during lactation.

Pang Da Hai throat lozenges are made from traditional Chinese medicinal ingredients such as menthol, chrysanthemum, and Radix Scrophulariae. They have effects of clearing heat and detoxifying, soothing the throat, and moistening the intestines to relieve constipation. During lactation, if a woman develops pharyngitis due to excessive internal heat, she may generally take these lozenges under medical guidance to help alleviate symptoms. Since Pang Da Hai throat lozenges are traditional Chinese medicine preparations with relatively few side effects and high safety, they usually do not adversely affect milk production or the baby's health. However, individuals with weak spleen and stomach function or those experiencing diarrhea should avoid taking them to prevent worsening of symptoms.

After developing pharyngitis during breastfeeding, it is recommended that patients maintain a light diet, avoiding spicy, irritating, overly greasy, or hard-to-digest foods, so as not to irritate the throat area, exacerbate discomfort, or negatively impact recovery from the illness.