Can You Take DayQuil While Breastfeeding?

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By Krystal Duhaney | Updated on Dec 3, 2023
Image for article Can You Take DayQuil While Breastfeeding?

Yes, you can take DayQuil while breastfeeding, but it's important to use caution and consult with a healthcare professional. 

DayQuil contains various ingredients, including acetaminophen, dextromethorphan and pseudoephedrine. Acetaminophen is generally considered safe to use while breastfeeding in recommended doses. However, dextromethorphan and pseudoephedrine3  can potentially pass into breast milk. While there isn't extensive research on their effects on breastfeeding babies, it's a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider to weigh the potential risks and benefits.

One important thing to note is that pseudoephedrine, a decongestant found in DayQuil, has the potential to decrease milk supply3  in some people. If maintaining a robust milk supply is a priority for you, your healthcare provider may suggest you use different medications or recommend using pseudoephedrine cautiously or for a short time.

Every breastfeeding journey is unique, so it's crucial to have a personalized conversation with your healthcare professional to make an informed decision that aligns with your specific needs.

Pregnant woman holding her stomach on a bed with a plant in the background

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Expectful uses only high-quality sources, including academic research institutions, medical associations, and subject matter experts.

  1. National Library of Medicine"Acetaminophen"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501194/.

  2. Nationa Library of Medicine"Dextromethorphan"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501456/.

  3. Natinal Library of Medicine"Pseudoephedrine"Apr 19, 2020https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501085/.


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Updated on Dec 3, 2023

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Can You Take DayQuil While Breastfeeding?

 Krystal Duhaney Profile Photo
By Krystal Duhaney | Updated on Dec 3, 2023
Image for article Can You Take DayQuil While Breastfeeding?

Yes, you can take DayQuil while breastfeeding, but it's important to use caution and consult with a healthcare professional. 

DayQuil contains various ingredients, including acetaminophen, dextromethorphan and pseudoephedrine. Acetaminophen is generally considered safe to use while breastfeeding in recommended doses. However, dextromethorphan and pseudoephedrine3  can potentially pass into breast milk. While there isn't extensive research on their effects on breastfeeding babies, it's a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider to weigh the potential risks and benefits.

One important thing to note is that pseudoephedrine, a decongestant found in DayQuil, has the potential to decrease milk supply3  in some people. If maintaining a robust milk supply is a priority for you, your healthcare provider may suggest you use different medications or recommend using pseudoephedrine cautiously or for a short time.

Every breastfeeding journey is unique, so it's crucial to have a personalized conversation with your healthcare professional to make an informed decision that aligns with your specific needs.

Pregnant woman holding her stomach on a bed with a plant in the background

Want evidence-based health & wellness advice for fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum delivered to your inbox?

Your privacy is important to us. By subscribing you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Expectful uses only high-quality sources, including academic research institutions, medical associations, and subject matter experts.

  1. National Library of Medicine"Acetaminophen"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501194/.

  2. Nationa Library of Medicine"Dextromethorphan"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501456/.

  3. Natinal Library of Medicine"Pseudoephedrine"Apr 19, 2020https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501085/.


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