Does mucinex – Guafenesin Side Effects and Risks While Breastfeeding
Does mucinex
Does mucinex while breastfeeding protect your baby? Is it really safe? Read through the following article:
Mucinex is a common ingredient in so many natural breast products. It is thought to be a mastogenic (hormone increasing) pill. Although it has not been deemed as dangerous, some mothers do worry about its side effects. There are active ingredients in this pill that can affect the baby’s stomach and intestines. Some of these effects can be uncomfortable to deal with. So, although it has not been formally studied, there have been no conclusive tests made as to whether or not taking mucinex while breastfeeding is safe.
However, as mentioned above, it is thought to be safe only if the mother also takes antihistamines. This is because the main ingredient in mucinex is guaifenesin. Guafenesin is used to reduce inflammation, which can sometimes occur when a mother is breastfeeding. As it is thought to increase acid production, it can reduce the inflammation in the stomach, thereby lessening the amount of discomfort the baby feels. If this herb is not added to a nursing mother’s regimen, it may cause problems for both the breastfeeding mother and child.
Does mucinex – Guafenesin Side Effects and Risks While Breastfeeding
However, the American Academy of Pediatrics says that guaifenesin is not likely to cause any harm to a breastfeeding infant. However, taking pseudoephedrine is thought to cause nausea and vomiting. A combination of both herbs is not likely to have an adverse effect either, but is probably not recommended either. Pseudoephedrine has been found to have cardiac arrhythmias and is associated with low blood pressure. Guafenesin is not thought to have these side effects either.
The bottom line is, while guaifenesin side effects are rare, they do occur and should be taken into consideration before stopping the medication. It is always wise to talk with your doctor, especially if you have other medications, diseases, or conditions. Some studies have shown that taking mucinex while breastfeeding may be safer than taking a traditional cough suppressant such as Sudafed. However, even if the benefits seem minimal, you should still discuss this option with your doctor before stopping the medication.
As always, make sure you check with your doctor before taking any over-the-counter medications. While these medications are generally safe, you should never start any type of medication without talking to your doctor first. If you are pregnant or nursing, you should also talk to your doctor before stopping the medication. Mucinex may be beneficial for your baby, but the side effects may be too overwhelming for your unborn or nursing child.