Can I Take Mucinex While Breastfeeding?

Winter is the precursor of colds and flu, and breastfeeding women are just as susceptible as others to these seasonal ailments. However, there are a few key things to keep in mind when taking medication while breastfeeding.

First, it is essential to understand that medication can pass through breast milk to your baby, and infants under six months are more likely to be affected by those medications than older babies.

Secondly, some medicines may affect your milk supply, so knowing which drugs can do this is vital.

Finally, it is essential to remember that you should never take more medication than what is prescribed by your healthcare provider—taking more medication than prescribed can be dangerous for you and your baby.

Discussing the risks and benefits of taking medication, including over-the-counter medicines, while breastfeeding with your healthcare provider is essential.

What is Mucinex?

Mucinex is the brand name for an over-the-counter medication used to treat chest congestion, mucus build-up, and cough caused by the common cold, bronchitis, and other respiratory infections. The active ingredient in Mucinex is guaifenesin, a medication known as an expectorant. Expectorants thin mucous and loosen congestion in your chest and lungs, making it easier to clear secretions that have built up during a cold or the flu. It is available in different formulations, including tablets, liquids, and gels. While there are no known interactions between Mucinex and breastfeeding, it is always best to check with your healthcare provider — even before taking over-the-counter medication.

Can I take cold remedies when breastfeeding?

Over-the-counter cold remedies are generally safe for both mother and child. However, it is essential to read the labels carefully and follow the directions concerning the dosage. Some cold medicines may contain ingredients that can be harmful to your baby, so it is always best to check with your healthcare provider before taking anything. If you are concerned about taking medication while breastfeeding, some natural alternatives may help relieve your symptoms. These include drinking plenty of fluids, getting rest, and using a humidifier.

Is it safe to take Mucinex while breastfeeding?

You may be curious whether you can take different Mucinex products when breastfeeding (E.g. Mucinex DM, Mucinex Fast-Max, Mucinex Sinus-Max, Mucinex Night Time, etc.).

The active ingredients in most Mucinex products are safe to take when you are breastfeeding. There is no research on guaifenesin, but the dosage is unlikely to affect the health of the breastfeeding baby. However, there are Mucinex products containing phenylephrine, which have been shown to reduce breast milk production. Additionally, it can cause restlessness in babies. Therefore, if you are uncertain about the effects of over-the-counter medications on your health or that of your infant, contact your medical provider or speak with your pharmacist.

What you should consider

Mucinex has a variety of medications to treat cold and flu symptoms, sinus and nasal congestion, and cough and chest congestion. Some treatments include active ingredients you may not want to take while breastfeeding. For example, Mucinex D, Mucinex Fast-Max, and Mucinex Extra Strength are for severe congestion and cough. One of the active ingredients in all these medications is phenylephrine which can unsettle babies and decrease milk production in nursing mothers after oral use.

Mucinex DM contains dextromethorphan and guaifenesin, which are not expected to affect a nursing baby. So, it is safe for a woman to breastfeed while taking this medication. The same information exists for Mucinex Sinus-Max. The active ingredient in this over-the-counter medication is oxymetazoline HCL, which has no contraindications while breastfeeding. Mucinex is classified as a category C medication, which means that it is not known if it is safe for use during pregnancy. However, doctors don’t recommend its use during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you are breastfeeding, it is also best to check with your healthcare provider before taking Mucinex.

Safe alternatives to Mucinex when breastfeeding

You can do many things, aside from taking over-the-counter medications, to help relieve cold and cough symptoms. Rest is the number one recommendation, along with making sure you drink lots of water and other clear liquids. Taking hot, steamy showers can help break up congestion, along with using a humidifier. Other alternatives include using a saline nasal spray to help with nasal congestion. There are many safe medications to use while pregnant and/or breastfeeding. Guaifenesin, one of the active ingredients in Mucinex products, is safe. Other safe medications to use during breastfeeding include dextromethorphan, pseudoephedrine, second-generation allergy medications, NSAID pain relievers, and acetaminophen. If you are unsure about which medications are safe, talk to your pharmacist or primary provider for more information and guidance.