Sudafed and Breastfeeding

In clinical studies on breastfeeding and Sudafed (pseudoephedrine), the medication was shown to pass through breast milk. It also appears to decrease milk production, although this is probably not a problem for occasional doses in women with a well-established milk supply. If you are taking this medication and breastfeeding, make sure to watch for any side effects or problems in your child.

Sudafed Medication Information

An Overview of Sudafed and Breastfeeding

Sudafed^® (pseudoephedrine hydrochloride) passes through breast milk. Therefore, if you are breastfeeding, talk with your healthcare provider before taking Sudafed.

(The information in this article applies to original Sudafed, now found behind the pharmacy counter. For information about the reformulated Sudafed products that do contain phenylephrine instead of pseudoephedrine, see Phenylephrine and Breastfeeding.)

Is It Safe to Breastfeed While Taking Sudafed?

Sudafed passes through breast milk in small amounts, probably too small to cause serious problems for most infants.

Irritability is a common side effect reported in infants exposed to Sudafed through breast milk.

Sudafed seems to decrease milk production. This is probably not a problem for occasional doses (since the milk supply will recover) in women with a well-established milk supply. However, it may become a problem for women who take Sudafed frequently, are just starting to breastfeed, or are having milk supply problems.

If your healthcare provider decides that it is okay for you to take Sudafed while breastfeeding, be sure to watch for irritability or any other problems in your child. If you notice a significant drop in your milk supply, it is probably best to avoid Sudafed.

(Sudafed and Breastfeeding Continued: Page 2)