Around 92% of people living in the UK have used at least one over-the-counter drug in the past year. While these drugs make it possible to manage symptoms that don't otherwise require a prescription —such as painkillers for headaches or cough and cold remedies—they aren't suitable for everyone. Women who are breastfeeding may not realize some of these over-the-counter drugs should be avoided while breastfeeding.
Some of these affect the breastfeeding process itself, while others may have harmful effects on the baby. Here are five common over-the-counter drugs you should avoid when breastfeeding: 1. Oral decongestants The average adult experiences around two or three colds each year .
While over-the-counter oral decongestants (such as pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine) found in many cold remedies can help relieve a blocked nose, these drugs should be avoided if you're breastfeeding. Research shows even just a single dose of an oral decongestant can reduce milk supply. A study showed there was a significant drop in milk production over 24 hours.
Repeated use of an oral decongestant could permanently affect the milk supply. This is because oral decongestants reduce prolactin levels —the hormone which drives milk production. This is particularly concerning in mothers who have just started breastfeeding or have low milk production.
Safer alternatives are decongestant nasal sprays which contain xylometazoline and oxymetazoline. These act locally within the nose so are less lik.