Cough Syrup Safety During Breastfeeding

Recommended Medications

• Dextromethorphan-based cough syrups are the preferred first-line choice for breastfeeding mothers with cough, as they are considered compatible with breastfeeding and have minimal transfer into breast milk, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics 1, 2
• Simple glycerol-based cough syrups may provide symptomatic relief with minimal systemic absorption, as suggested by the American College of Chest Physicians 3

General Guidelines

• Most medications are compatible with breastfeeding because the infant dose received through milk is generally much smaller than known safe doses given directly to infants, and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends consulting the LactMed database for the most current information 1, 2, 4
• The benefits of continuing breastfeeding while treating maternal symptoms typically outweigh the minimal risks of medication exposure through breast milk, as stated by the American Academy of Pediatrics 1, 2
• Breastfeeding mothers should monitor their infant for unusual sedation, irritability, or changes in feeding patterns when taking medication, as advised by the American Academy of Pediatrics 1, 2