A common dilemma for a breastfeeding mother feeling unwell is navigating over-the-counter (OTC) cold and flu products. While a menthol cough drop seems like a simple remedy for a scratchy throat, it is prudent to examine both the active and inactive ingredients for any potential risk to the nursing infant. The goal is to provide relief without introducing unnecessary substances into breast milk. Understanding the safety profile of these lozenges allows a mother to make an informed choice for her temporary discomfort.
Understanding Menthol’s Safety During Lactation
Menthol, the active compound in many cough drops, is derived from peppermint oil and provides a cooling sensation that temporarily relieves sore throat pain. When consumed in the small amounts found in lozenges, menthol is generally considered low-risk for the breastfed infant. The active substance is rapidly metabolized, and only trace amounts are expected to transfer into breast milk.
The primary consideration for menthol use is its potential effect on maternal milk supply. Peppermint has been anecdotally associated with reducing milk production, a concern supported by some studies using high concentrations. However, menthol cough drops are typically used for short periods and involve oral mucosal exposure, which limits systemic absorption compared to ingesting large amounts of concentrated oil.
For mothers with a well-established milk supply, occasional, limited use of menthol cough drops is widely regarded as compatible with breastfeeding. The InfantRisk Center considers menthol cough drops an “excellent choice” for cough relief. Mothers who are actively working to build their supply or who have a history of low production may choose to minimize or avoid menthol products just to be cautious. Menthol is excreted into breast milk in small quantities, but these levels are not high enough to cause adverse effects in the baby.
Assessing Other Ingredients in Cough Drops
While menthol is the main active ingredient, cough drops contain many other components that can sometimes pose an indirect concern. Many sugar-free cough drops rely on artificial sweeteners like saccharin, sucralose, or aspartame. Aspartame is rapidly broken down in the mother’s body, making it generally undetectable in breast milk.
Saccharin and sucralose have been detected in the breast milk of mothers who consume them, though the amounts are usually very low. Experts often suggest limiting non-nutritive sweeteners because the long-term effects of prolonged infant exposure are not fully understood. High sugar content in traditional cough drops is not a risk to the infant, but frequent use can contribute to maternal dental health issues.
Mothers should check for the presence of other additives, such as synthetic food dyes and flavoring agents. Although these ingredients are generally approved for use in foods, the impact of their transfer into breast milk is poorly studied. Choosing cough drops with the fewest additives, or those using natural colorings, minimizes the infant’s exposure to non-essential chemicals. Furthermore, combination cold and flu products often contain decongestants, which can significantly reduce milk supply and should be avoided.
Non-Pharmacological Relief Methods
For mothers who prefer to avoid all medications and additives, several drug-free methods can effectively soothe a sore throat and cough. Hydration is primary, as drinking plenty of fluids helps to thin mucus and moisten the throat tissues. Warm liquids, such as herbal tea with lemon or broth, can offer immediate relief to an irritated throat.
Gargling with warm salt water can reduce swelling and clear irritants from the throat. For cough management, using a cool-mist humidifier in the bedroom can moisten the airways, which often helps to calm a dry, irritating cough, particularly at night. Another common remedy is honey, which has documented cough-suppressant properties and is safe for the breastfeeding mother.
Honey should never be given to an infant under one year of age due to the risk of infant botulism. Mothers can consume honey safely, but the remedy must be reserved for the adult. Incorporating these non-pharmacological methods provides a safe initial approach to managing cold symptoms while breastfeeding.