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Tussionex and Breastfeeding
The full risks of breastfeeding while using Tussionex (hydrocodone polistirex/chlorpheniramine polistirex) are currently unknown, as no studies have been done on this topic. Due to the potential problems, the manufacturer recommends that women avoid this drug while breastfeeding. If your healthcare provider does prescribe it, watch for potential side effects in your child, such as irritability and breathing problems.
from eMedTV.comCan Breastfeeding Women Take Tussionex?
At this time, it is not known if Tussionex® Pennkinetic® (hydrocodone polistirex/chlorpheniramine polistirex) passes through breast milk in humans. The manufacturer recommends that women not take this medication while nursing a child. Therefore, if you are breastfeeding, talk with your healthcare provider before taking Tussionex.What Does the Research Say?
No studies have been done to see if Tussionex passes through breast milk in women. Hydrocodone, one of the active components in Tussionex, is a narcotic and could cause significant problems in a nursing infant if it does pass through breast milk.The other active component in Tussionex, chlorpheniramine, could decrease a woman's milk supply if used in large doses or for long periods. This is because the medication can suppress prolactin, a hormone important for breast milk production. However, this is not likely an issue for women who are well established with breastfeeding.
If your healthcare provider recommends taking Tussionex while breastfeeding, make sure to watch for any signs of problems in your infant, including:
- Unusual sleepiness
- Irritability
- Poor eating
- Inadequate weight gain
- Breathing problems.
Let your child's healthcare provider know right away if you think there might be a problem.
Written by/reviewed by: Susan Lakey, PharmD, MPH
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD