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Can Cymbalta be taken in breastfeeding?

Understanding Cymbalta and Breastfeeding
Cymbalta, known generically as duloxetine, is a medication commonly prescribed for conditions such as depression, anxiety, and chronic pain. For new mothers considering breastfeeding while on Cymbalta, the question of safety is paramount.
Safety Profile During Lactation
Research indicates that Cymbalta does pass into breast milk, but the implications for breastfeeding infants appear to be relatively reassuring. A safety score of 1 suggests that the use of Cymbalta during lactation is mostly safe for breastfed babies. While there is limited data on the long-term effects of Cymbalta in breastfeeding, harmful effects have not been reported in breastfed infants.
However, it is crucial for mothers to remain vigilant. If a breastfeeding mother notices any unusual symptoms in her infant, such as excessive sleepiness or poor weight gain, it is advisable to consult the child’s healthcare provider immediately.
Consultation with Healthcare Providers
Given the limited data available, healthcare professionals often recommend that mothers discuss their specific situations with their doctors. This conversation should include weighing the potential risks to the infant against the benefits of continuing treatment with Cymbalta. Many healthcare providers may suggest alternative treatments if there are concerns about the medication’s effects on the baby.
The Importance of Mental Health
It is essential to recognize that maintaining the mother’s mental health is crucial not only for her well-being but also for the health of her baby. Continuing treatment with Cymbalta can help manage symptoms of depression and anxiety, which can be beneficial for both mother and child. Breastfeeding itself is also known to provide numerous benefits, including emotional bonding and nutritional advantages for the infant.
Conclusion
In summary, while Cymbalta can be taken during breastfeeding, it is vital for mothers to engage in open discussions with their healthcare providers to ensure the best outcomes for both themselves and their infants. Monitoring the infant for any adverse effects and making informed decisions based on professional guidance can help navigate the complexities of medication use during this critical period.

Who Cannot take Cymbalta?

have kidney or liver problems. have a heart problem. are taking or have taken other medicines for depression within the last 14 days. have glaucoma – duloxetine can increase the pressure in your eye.

What are the first line antidepressants for breastfeeding moms?

When initiating a drug postpartum it is important to consider the mother’s previous response to treatment. For new prescriptions postpartum, consider Sertraline first-line if no previous antidepressant has been tried. Other SSRIs and Mirtazapine can be used whilst breastfeeding.

What is the best anxiety medication to take 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 it safe to take Cymbalta while pregnant?

There is no evidence that use of duloxetine in pregnancy causes miscarriage, birth defects, stillbirth, preterm birth, or low infant birth weight.

What is the lowest risk antidepressant in pregnancy?

Certain selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
SSRIs usually are an option during pregnancy. These include citalopram (Celexa), sertraline (Zoloft), escitalopram (Lexapro) and fluoxetine (Prozac). Risks include high blood pressure for the pregnant person and premature birth. These risks are small.

What medications are not compatible with breastfeeding?

ANSWER: Only a few drugs pose a clinically significant risk to breastfed babies. In general, antineoplastics, drugs of abuse, some anticonvulsants, ergot alkaloids, and radiopharmaceuticals should not be taken, and levels of amiodarone, cyclosporine, and lithium should be monitored.

Is Cymbalta safe to take while breastfeeding?

Triplehuntress3, Cymbalta is rated an L3-limited data-probably compatible. The amount that transfers into breast milk is only 0.1-1.1 % of your dose. We think this medication is safe as long as your infant is not symptomatic. Monitor for sedation or irritability, not waking to feed/poor feeding and weight gain.

What is the safest antidepressant for pregnancy?

In general, these antidepressants are options during pregnancy: Certain selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). SSRIs usually are an option during pregnancy. These include citalopram (Celexa), sertraline (Zoloft), escitalopram (Lexapro) and fluoxetine (Prozac).

Which drug is usually avoided with breastfeeding?

Table. Examples of drugs contraindicated in breastfeeding.

Drug Comment
Iodine High doses (>150 micrograms daily) lead to risk of infant hypothyroidism
Lithium Breastfeeding only feasible with rigorous monitoring
Radiopharmaceuticals Contact obstetric information service
Retinoids (oral) Potential for serious adverse effects

What is the safest antidepressant 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.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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