Can I give omeprazole to my breastfed baby?

Omeprazole and Breastfeeding: What You Need to Know
When it comesAdministering Omeprazole to Breastfed Babies: Navigating the Complexities
As a You.com Smart Assistant, I can provide a detailed, journalistic-style response to your question about giving omeprazole to a breastfed baby.
The Basics of Omeprazole
Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) medication commonly used to treat acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It works by reducing the production of stomach acid, providing relief for those experiencing persistent heartburn, regurgitation, or other symptoms associated with GERD.
Omeprazole and Breastfeeding: Considerations
When it comes to administering omeprazole to a breastfed baby, there are several important factors to consider. Firstly, it’s crucial to understand that the medication can pass into breastmilk, albeit in relatively small amounts. This raises the question of whether the potential benefits of treating the baby’s GERD symptoms outweigh any potential risks to the infant.
Potential Risks and Benefits
The American Academy of Pediatrics has classified omeprazole as generally compatible with breastfeeding, as the amount that passes into breastmilk is typically low and unlikely to cause significant adverse effects in the baby. However, it’s important to note that the long-term safety of PPIs in infants is not yet fully established, and healthcare providers may approach the decision to prescribe omeprazole for breastfed babies with an abundance of caution.
Consulting with a Healthcare Provider
Given the complexities involved, it’s strongly recommended that parents consult with a qualified healthcare provider, such as a pediatrician or lactation consultant, before administering omeprazole to a breastfed baby. The provider can carefully evaluate the individual circumstances, weigh the potential risks and benefits, and make an informed recommendation based on the specific needs and health status of the infant.
Conclusion
In summary, while omeprazole may be an option for treating GERD in breastfed babies, the decision to use this medication should be made in close consultation with a healthcare professional. They can provide guidance on the appropriate dosage, potential side effects, and the overall safety considerations for the individual infant. By working closely with a qualified provider, parents can make an informed decision that prioritizes the health and wellbeing of their breastfed child.

How does omeprazole help baby reflux?

In gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), the contents of the stomach come back up (reflux) into the food pipe (oesophagus). This is often painful and it can damage the food pipe. Omeprazole reduces the amount of acid in the stomach, which reduces the symptoms of GORD and helps protect the food pipe.

Is omeprazole safe for breastfeeding mothers?

Omeprazole poses little risk to a breastfeeding infant. Levels in milk are low (one percent of maternal dose), and it is unstable in the stomach at low pH. Virtually all omeprazole ingested via milk would probably be destroyed in the stomach of the infant prior to absorption.

What can I take for acid reflux while breastfeeding?

Antacid and alginate preparations
There is extensive experience of use of antacids during breastfeeding and they are considered first-line options for managing heartburn or dyspepsia. Alginates and simeticone are also considered acceptable for use during breastfeeding.

Does omeprazole help baby reflux?

Background and aim: Gastroesophageal reflux occurs in the majority of infants, with severity ranging from asymptomatic to severe esophagitis and failure to thrive. Omeprazole is recognized as a safe and effective treatment of gastroesophageal reflux in older children, at an initial dosage of 0.7 mg x kg(-1) x day(-1).

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

How to treat reflux in a breastfed baby?

Helping your baby with reflux

1. get advice about your baby’s breastfeeding position.
2. hold your baby upright during feeding and for as long as possible after feeding.
3. burp (or wind) your baby regularly during feeds.
4. make sure your baby sleeps flat on their back (they should not sleep on their side or front)

Can omeprazole affect my baby?

Are there any risks of taking a PPI in pregnancy? Omeprazole is commonly used in pregnancy. There is no good evidence that omeprazole or other PPIs are linked to miscarriage, birth defects, stillbirth, preterm delivery, or low infant birth weight.

How long after omeprazole can a baby have milk?

If prescribed twice daily, the second dose should be given with the feed approximately 12 hours later or the last feed of the day. The Omeprazole suspension (liquid) is best given with something alkaline, so a drink of milk immediately after the dose is recommended.

What are the side effects of omeprazole for infants?

Side effects of omeprazole include nausea and vomiting, constipation, diarrhoea and abdominal pain. 14 Persistent crying may be related to these side effects, thus adding to the irritability. If symptoms worsen with treatment refer to a paediatric gastroenterologist.

How to give omeprazole to an infant?

1) Disperse the tablet (or fraction of) in 10ml of non-fizzy water (two medicine spoons). Water for babies over 6 months doesn’t have to be boiled. 2) Do not crush or chew the tablet. 3) Stir gently until a very cloudy mixture is created.