🔴AvoidCurated
Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed)
Avoid pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) while breastfeeding. Even a single dose has been shown to reduce milk supply by about 25%, and it passes into breast milk.
📉A single dose reduces milk supply by ~25%. Avoid entirely if possible.
Pseudoephedrine is a sympathomimetic that reduces milk supply by constricting blood vessels in breast tissue and potentially suppressing prolactin. A controlled study showed a 24% reduction in milk output after a single dose. It also transfers into breast milk in measurable amounts. If you need a decongestant, saline nasal spray and steam are safer alternatives. Phenylephrine (regular Sudafed PE) is less effective but has a better safety profile for supply.
Safer Alternatives:
Always confirm with your doctor or lactation consultant before making dietary changes while breastfeeding.
Was this helpful?