Can Celexa be taken while breastfeeding?

Can Celexa Be Taken While Breastfeeding?
The question of whether Celexa (citalopram) can be safely taken while breastfeeding is one that many new mothers grapple with, especially those managing depression or anxiety. The consensus among healthcare professionals is that Celexa is generally considered safe for use during breastfeeding, although there are important considerations to keep in mind.
Transfer to Breast Milk
Citalopram does transfer into breast milk, but the amounts are typically low. Studies indicate that while the drug is present in breast milk, the concentrations are not high enough to pose significant risks to most infants. Common side effects observed in breastfed babies include increased fussiness and drowsiness, but these effects are generally mild and not universally experienced.
Research Findings
Research has shown that there are no significant harmful effects on breastfed infants whose mothers take citalopram. In fact, studies have indicated that there is no difference in the intellectual development of babies exposed to citalopram during breastfeeding compared to those who were not. While there have been isolated case reports of issues such as sleepiness and weight loss in infants, these occurrences are rare and not well-documented across larger populations.
Expert Opinions
While some experts express caution regarding the use of citalopram during nursing, many agree that the benefits of treating maternal depression often outweigh the potential risks to the infant. The American Academy of Pediatrics has categorized citalopram as acceptable for breastfeeding mothers, reinforcing the idea that the medication can be used safely when necessary.
Conclusion
In summary, Celexa can be taken while breastfeeding, but it is crucial for mothers to consult with their healthcare providers to weigh the benefits and risks specific to their situation. Monitoring the infant for any unusual symptoms is advisable, and adjustments to medication may be necessary based on individual responses. Ultimately, the decision should be made collaboratively between the mother and her healthcare team, ensuring both maternal mental health and infant safety are prioritized.

Does Celexa help with postpartum?

Citalopram is a commonly prescribed drug for postpartum depression. It is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), a type of drug that promotes the amount of serotonin in the brain, helping the organ to send and receive neural messages, resulting in better and more stable moods.

Is Celexa safe while breastfeeding?

Citalopram and breastfeeding
Citalopram passes into breast milk in fairly small amounts. It has often been used during breastfeeding without any problems but has been linked with side effects, including poor feeding, colic, and being unusually sleepy, irritable or restless, in a very small number of breastfed babies.

What is the safest antidepressant to take while breastfeeding?

Sertraline and paroxetine (among SSRIs) and nortriptyline and imipramine (among TCAs) are the most evidence-based medications for use during breastfeeding because of similar findings across multiple laboratories, usually undetectable infant serum levels and no reports of short term adverse events.

What is the best mood stabilizer for breastfeeding?

Data for lamotrigine (LTG) appears to be more favorable than other antiepileptics. During lactation, use of valproate and LTG is reported to be safe. Use of typical and/atypical antipsychotic is a good option during pregnancy in women with bipolar disorder.

What effects do antidepressants have on breastfed babies?

There have been a small number of case reports of adverse events in infants exposed to antidepressants in breast milk, including jitteriness, irritability, excessive crying, sleep disturbance, and feeding problems.

What happens to breastfed babies on antidepressants?

There are also two reports of excessive somnolence, decreased feeding and weight loss in breastfed infants. In studies no adverse effects on the babies were noted. If the baby shows less than expected weight gain it might be prudent to discontinue the drug and change to another SSRI.

What is a natural anti anxiety while breastfeeding?

Studies show that passion flower and oat are as effective as prescription anxiety medications. Plus, oats can help boost the metabolism of fats and increase milk production for nursing mamas. Melissa (Lemon Balm). Melissa, a member of the mint family, helps ease anxiety and depression and is an effective antiviral.

What anxiety medication is safe 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.

Who Cannot take Celexa?

are trying to become pregnant, are already pregnant or breastfeeding. have an eye condition called glaucoma – citalopram can increase the pressure in your eye. have epilepsy or are having electroconvulsive treatment – citalopram may increase your risk of having a seizure.

Does Celexa improve mood?

How does citalopram work? Citalopram is one of a group of antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs. These medicines are thought to work by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is thought to have a good effect on mood, emotion and sleep.