Can You Take Excedrin While Breastfeeding?

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By Krystal Duhaney | Updated on Sep 12, 2023
Image for article Can You Take Excedrin While Breastfeeding?

It's generally not advised to take Excedrin while breastfeeding. Here's why: Excedrin is a combination of acetaminophen1 , aspirin2  and caffeine, and research shows that these substances can get into breast milk and potentially affect your baby. For instance, a study in the Journal of Human Lactation points out that salicylates, like the aspirin in Excedrin, could lead to Reye's syndrome, a rare but serious condition in children. 

Also, caffeine in moderate amounts is typically okay when breastfeeding, but higher amounts could make your baby fussy or interfere with their sleep. Acetaminophen, on the other hand, is usually safe in typical doses, but the combination with other substances in Excedrin makes it more complex.

Of course, it's always best to check with your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your situation.

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

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

  2. National Library of Medicine"Aspirin"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501196/.

  3. National Library of Medicine"Caffeine"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501467/.


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Updated on Sep 12, 2023

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Can You Take Excedrin While Breastfeeding?

 Krystal Duhaney Profile Photo
By Krystal Duhaney | Updated on Sep 12, 2023
Image for article Can You Take Excedrin While Breastfeeding?

It's generally not advised to take Excedrin while breastfeeding. Here's why: Excedrin is a combination of acetaminophen1 , aspirin2  and caffeine, and research shows that these substances can get into breast milk and potentially affect your baby. For instance, a study in the Journal of Human Lactation points out that salicylates, like the aspirin in Excedrin, could lead to Reye's syndrome, a rare but serious condition in children. 

Also, caffeine in moderate amounts is typically okay when breastfeeding, but higher amounts could make your baby fussy or interfere with their sleep. Acetaminophen, on the other hand, is usually safe in typical doses, but the combination with other substances in Excedrin makes it more complex.

Of course, it's always best to check with your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your situation.

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. National Library of Medicine"Aspirin"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501196/.

  3. National Library of Medicine"Caffeine"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501467/.


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