How long after taking cold medicine can I breastfeed?
Nov 10, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
If a breastfeeding mother catches a cold and needs to take Western medicine, doctors will recommend medications categorized as Class A or B, which have less impact on breast milk, and advise against choosing Class C or D drugs. Western medicines typically have a short half-life, commonly around 4 to 6 hours. To ensure the drug has metabolized to a low level in the body and reduce its impact on the infant, it is recommended that the mother wait at least 8 to 12 hours after taking the medication before breastfeeding.
Generally, if a mother takes Western medicine for a cold, it is recommended that she wait at least 8–12 hours before breastfeeding. If she takes traditional Chinese patent medicine for a cold, breastfeeding can usually continue normally. Detailed explanations are as follows:
If a breastfeeding mother takes Western medicine for a cold, doctors generally recommend using medications categorized as class A or B, which have less impact on breast milk, and advise avoiding class C or D medications.
Western medications typically have a shorter half-life, commonly around 4–6 hours. To ensure the medication is metabolized to a low level in the body and to reduce potential effects on the infant, mothers are advised to wait at least 8–12 hours after taking the medication before resuming breastfeeding. Commonly used Western cold medications, such as phenylephrine, dextromethorphan, and acetaminophen tablets (e.g., DayQuil/NyQuil), or children's paracetamol and chlorpheniramine granules (e.g., Little Star Cold Relief Granules), are generally recommended to follow this time interval before resuming breastfeeding.
Common traditional Chinese patent medicines for colds, such as Xiao Chai Hu Granules or Qing Kai Ling Oral Liquid, generally have minimal effects on breast milk, and mothers can usually continue breastfeeding normally after taking them. However, specific instructions should follow the drug's label and a doctor's advice.
During the period of medication and for some time afterward, closely monitor the infant's response. If symptoms such as irritability, insomnia, or decreased appetite occur, discontinue the medication immediately and seek medical attention.
