What is the difference between a antihistamine and a decagestent?
2006-09-17 02:37:41 · 9 answers · asked by parentem 1 in Pregnancy & Parenting ➔ Newborn & Baby
Most cough/cold meds are safe while breastfeeding, but I would warn you that certain decongestants can reduce your supply. Sudafed (and any drug containing pseudoephedrine) is known for this.
As far as the difference between antihistamines and decongestants: decongestants are drugs that dry up mucous to reduce congestion (incidentally, this is why they can impact milk supply). Antihistamines are drugs that combat an allergic reaction- like Claritin, for example. They won't help you if you aren't allergic.
Check out the link below for an in-depth discussion of various drugs and cold remedies during breastfeeding.
2006-09-17 02:45:22 · answer #1 · answered by kalirush 3 · 3⤊ 0⤋
You can take the same things for a cold while breastfeeding that you could take while you were pregnant.
The antihistimine in the cold remedy is for the runny nose.
The decongestant, probably pseudoephedrine helps to dry up the mucus. The decongestant can decrease your milk supply although this was never an issue for me. Drink plenty of water and get tons of rest.
2006-09-17 03:08:41 · answer #2 · answered by C K Platypus 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Robitussin is ok. Antihistamines stop allergy reactions but are virtually useless for a cold or flu. Decongestants 'dry up' mucus membranes making it easier to breathe, not highly recomended during nursing, as they may interfere with production or make baby jittery.
2006-09-17 02:48:55 · answer #3 · answered by ginarene71 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I would suggest to always ask your doctor what you can take as well as the pharmacist. I always double check with the pharmacist before I take anything. Good luck!
2006-09-17 04:16:42 · answer #4 · answered by TRUE PATRIOT 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Always consult doctor for any medication when you are breastfeeding.
2006-09-17 02:54:53 · answer #5 · answered by vosy2006 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
No.. Everything you eat take and do the baby still gets.. It is like you are still pregnant with no baby inside..
2006-09-17 02:49:11 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 2⤋
your best bet is to talk to your doctor or health visitor
2006-09-17 03:29:45 · answer #7 · answered by mummy to 3 miracles 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
you arent suppoed to because then it will drug the baby.
2006-09-17 08:32:57 · answer #8 · answered by kate 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Please always contact a Medical Doctor to avoid any misunderstands.
2006-09-17 02:45:30 · answer #9 · answered by Lupe Lebow 4 · 1⤊ 1⤋