Can a nursing mother take Lexapro?

Can a Nursing Mother Take Lexapro?
Overview of Lexapro and Its Uses
Lexapro, or escitalopram, is a prescription medication commonly used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. As a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), it works by enhancing the levels of serotonin in the brain, which can help improve mood and emotional balance. However, the safety of this medication during breastfeeding is a topic of significant concern for new mothers.
The Research Landscape
Current research on the use of Lexapro in nursing mothers presents a nuanced picture. According to various studies, escitalopram does pass into breast milk, but the levels detected are generally considered to be low. The American Academy of Pediatrics categorizes Lexapro as a medication that is usually compatible with breastfeeding. However, the potential risks and benefits must always be weighed carefully.
A study published in the journal *Breastfeeding Medicine* suggests that while some infants may be exposed to small amounts of the drug through breast milk, adverse effects are rare. Most infants do not experience significant health issues when their mothers take Lexapro. Nonetheless, close monitoring of the baby is recommended, especially during the first few months of life.
Considerations for Nursing Mothers
For nursing mothers contemplating the use of Lexapro, several factors should be considered:
1. Consultation with Healthcare Providers: It is crucial for mothers to have open discussions with their healthcare professionals. This includes discussing the mother’s mental health needs, the potential effects on the infant, and alternative treatment options if necessary.
2. Monitoring Infant Development: If a nursing mother is prescribed Lexapro, healthcare providers often recommend monitoring the infant for any potential side effects, such as changes in feeding patterns, sleep disturbances, or unusual irritability.
3. Dosage and Timing: Some studies suggest that taking the medication right after breastfeeding may minimize the infant’s exposure to the drug, as levels in breast milk are typically lower at that time. Adjusting the timing of doses can be a strategy to reduce risk.
The Bottom Line
While Lexapro can be taken by nursing mothers, it is essential to approach this decision with caution. Balancing the mother’s mental health needs with the potential risks to the infant is paramount. Each situation is unique, and what works for one mother may not be suitable for another. Therefore, thorough consultation with healthcare professionals is critical to ensure the well-being of both mother and child.
In conclusion, while the current evidence suggests that Lexapro can be used safely during breastfeeding, ongoing research and individual assessments remain vital to ensure the best outcomes for nursing mothers and their babies.

Can Lexapro affect your birth control?

Escitalopram will not affect any type of contraception, including the combined pill or emergency contraception.

Is Lexapro good for postpartum anxiety?

Typically, antidepressants—like the SSRIs Prozac, Zoloft, Lexapro, etc. —are used and work very well. They are well studied and considered relatively safe for use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

Can newborns withdraw from Lexapro?

AAP Grand Rounds (2006) 15 (6): 72–73. Depression affects approximately 9% of pregnant women, and evidence is mounting that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant use during pregnancy can induce a withdrawal syndrome in exposed newborns.

What is the safest antidepressant to take while breastfeeding?

Paroxetine and sertraline are the SSRIs of choice during breastfeeding. More evidence is available on the use of SSRIs during breastfeeding than other antidepressant groups and limited data show encouraging outcomes when considering longer term effects on infants.

Is Lexapro ok while breastfeeding?

Escitalopram and breastfeeding
Escitalopram passes into breast milk in small amounts. It does not usually cause any problems but it has been linked with side effects including being unusually irritable or restless and being sick in a few breastfed babies.

What can I take for anxiety while breastfeeding?

Safe medication in breastfeeding
They include, in no particular order: SSRI antidepressants e.g. sertraline, citalopram, fluoxetine, paroxetine all have anti- anxiety activity. They take 4 to 6 weeks to exert full benefit. Tri-cyclic antidepressants e.g. amitriptyline, imipramine.

Is Lexapro or Zoloft better for anxiety?

SSRIs like Lexapro and Zoloft make more serotonin available in your brain—which in turn helps to relieve symptoms.. Some research suggests that Lexapro might be slightly more effective than Zoloft in treating depression and anxiety because it works slightly differently from other SSRIs.

Does Lexapro affect the baby?

If you are taking escitalopram or citalopram at the time of delivery, your baby might have irritability, jitteriness, tremors (shivering), constant crying, different sleep patterns, problems with eating and controlling body temperature, and some problems with breathing.

Does Lexapro affect breasts?

Breast tenderness isn’t among the published Lexapro side effects, but some studies and unofficial reports have linked Lexapro and breast tenderness. Lexapro may interfere with the normal processing of prolactin — a hormone that affects breast tissue. It’s possible that this could lead to breast tenderness.

What can breastfeeding moms take for anxiety?

If you and your doctor decide that prescribed medication is the best route for you, there are several options which you can take and continue breastfeeding. They include, in no particular order: SSRI antidepressants e.g. sertraline, citalopram, fluoxetine, paroxetine all have anti- anxiety activity.