Can I donate breastmilk if I take Zoloft?

Can I Donate Breastmilk if I Take Zoloft?
The question of whether you can donate breastmilk while taking Zoloft (sertraline) is a nuanced one, primarily revolving around the safety of the medication for breastfeeding mothers and their infants. Zoloft is a commonly prescribed antidepressant that falls under the category of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
Safety of Zoloft in Breastfeeding
Research indicates that Zoloft is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. Studies show that the levels of sertraline that transfer into breastmilk are low, meaning that the amounts ingested by infants are minimal and often undetectable in their serum. This has led many in the medical community to conclude that the benefits of breastfeeding while on Zoloft typically outweigh any potential risks.
Moreover, the weakly active metabolite of sertraline, known as norsertraline, is also present in low levels in infant serum, but again, this is not usually a cause for concern. The consensus among healthcare professionals is that Zoloft is one of the safer antidepressants for nursing mothers, with many experts recommending it as a suitable option during breastfeeding.
Milk Donation Policies
However, when it comes to donating breastmilk, the policies can vary significantly between different milk banks. Some milk banks may have specific criteria regarding medications that potential donors are taking. While there is limited evidence suggesting that Zoloft is safe in breastmilk, individual milk banks may still choose to restrict donations from mothers on this medication.
It’s essential for potential donors to check with their local milk bank regarding their specific policies. Many banks prioritize the safety of the milk they distribute, and as such, they may have stricter guidelines compared to general breastfeeding recommendations.
Conclusion
In summary, while Zoloft is generally deemed safe for breastfeeding, the ability to donate breastmilk while taking this medication may depend on the policies of the specific milk bank. If you are considering donating, it is advisable to consult with both your healthcare provider and the milk bank to ensure that you meet their criteria and to discuss any concerns you may have about the medication’s effects on your milk.

Can you donate while on Zoloft?

Antidepressants do not prevent normal blood donation. However, some prevent the donation of platelets. Sleeping pills and drugs that help you get to sleep are not obstacles to blood donation. If you begin taking regular antidepressants, you should wait at least one month before donating blood.

Can I donate eggs if I take Zoloft?

The ASRM (yes, the same organization that stated antidepressants are safe to take during fertility treatments) considers the current use of SSRIs or other antidepressants a “relative exclusion criteria”’ for egg donation.

What medications prevent you from donating breast milk?

Prescribed medicines which you should NOT take when you are donating but can be taken when feeding your own baby:

• Sleeping tablets (includes herbal products)
• Sedatives (includes herbal products and over-the-counter products)
• Domperidone.

Is Zoloft passed in breast milk?

Yes, Zoloft can pass into breast milk. While more research is needed in this area, current research indicates that only a very small amount passes through. (Peak levels in the hindmilk were typically found 8 to 9 hours after a dose.)

Can you donate breast milk if you are on Zoloft?

Community question: “Can I donate if I’m on a low dose antidepressant?” Yes. Make your medications known and it’s up to the mama in need to decide if she wants the milk. personally I would take donor milk with a low dose of anti depressant than formula any day.

Can I donate breast milk if I take Prozac?

What medications can I take and still be a milk donor? Prenatal vitamins, Tylenol, Advil, most allergy medications, several antidepressants, thyroid medications, and low dose estrogen birth control pills (prefer progestin only) are acceptable to take while pumping for the Milk Bank.

What drugs don’t go into breast milk?

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 happens to babies on Zoloft?

Some health practitioners found if Zoloft is taken in the 3rd trimester there may be a risk of pulmonary hypertension (PPHN). A baby born with pulmonary hypertension, can have serious lung problems that may lead to brain problems, heart problems, developmental problems and even death.

What disqualifies you from donating breastmilk?

You may be disqualified from donating breast milk if you: Have or are being treated for HIV, HTLV (human T-cell leukemia virus), hepatitis B or C, or syphilis. Have a sexual partner who is at risk for HIV, HTLV, hepatitis B or C, or syphilis. Have used recreational drugs within the last year.

What do they test for when you donate breast milk?

Also the labs must be done at least eight days after the procedure. In addition, milk banks serologically screen potential donors for HIV-1, HIV-2, human T-lymphotropic virus (HTLV), Hepatitis C, Hepatitis B surface antigen and syphilis no more than six months prior to the first donation.