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Can I have Excedrin Migraine while breastfeeding?

Understanding Excedrin Migraine and Breastfeeding
For breastfeeding mothers suffering from migraines, the question of whether to take Excedrin Migraine is a significant concern. Excedrin Migraine contains three active ingredients: acetaminophen, aspirin, and caffeine. Each of these components has different implications for breastfeeding mothers and their infants.
Safety of Ingredients
1. Acetaminophen: Generally considered safe for use during breastfeeding, acetaminophen is unlikely to pass into breast milk in significant amounts. This makes it a common choice for pain relief among nursing mothers.
2. Aspirin: The safety of aspirin during breastfeeding is more complex. While it is also thought to pass into breast milk in small amounts, it is recommended that mothers consult their healthcare provider before using Excedrin Migraine due to the presence of aspirin. This caution is particularly important because aspirin can have effects on blood clotting and may pose risks to infants, especially those with certain health conditions.
3. Caffeine: Caffeine is another ingredient in Excedrin Migraine. While small amounts of caffeine are generally considered safe during breastfeeding, mothers should monitor their infants for any adverse reactions, such as increased irritability or sleep disturbances.
Recommendations for Use
Given the potential risks associated with aspirin, it is crucial for breastfeeding mothers to consult with their healthcare provider before taking Excedrin Migraine. This is particularly important if the mother has a history of migraines or if she is experiencing severe headaches that require medication.
Healthcare professionals can provide personalized advice based on the mother’s health history and the specific needs of her infant. They may suggest alternative treatments or medications that are safer for breastfeeding mothers.
Conclusion
In summary, while acetaminophen and caffeine in Excedrin Migraine are generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers, the presence of aspirin necessitates a cautious approach. Consulting with a healthcare provider is essential to ensure both the mother’s and the infant’s health and safety. If you are a breastfeeding mother experiencing migraines, it is best to explore all options with your doctor to find the most suitable and safe treatment.

What can I take for a migraine while breastfeeding?

Women with migraine may be concerned about breastfeeding due to fears of exposing the baby to medication. However, many medications can be safely taken during breastfeeding, including acetaminophen (Tylenol), anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen (Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve), and sumatriptan (Imitrex).

How can I stop headaches while breastfeeding?

Non-Pharmacological Options

  1. Prioritizing good sleep.
  2. Eating regular meals and staying hydrated.
  3. Daily walks/Exercise.
  4. Wearing your prescription glasses if you are supposed to (avoid eye strain)
  5. Avoiding known triggers (including common dietary triggers)
  6. Migraine diary app (free: Migraine Buddy)

Which headache medicine is safe during breastfeeding?

What medications are safe to take while breastfeeding?

  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol, others)
  • Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others)
  • Naproxen sodium (Aleve, Anaprox DS, others) — short-term use only.

Which painkiller should be avoided during breastfeeding?

Products containing aspirin (including Anadin Original® and Disprin®) for pain relief are not recommended whilst you are breastfeeding because there is a possible link between aspirin and Reye’s syndrome in children, especially if your child has a viral infection or fever.

What helps postpartum migraines?

Treatments for Postpartum Headaches

  1. Get more sleep.
  2. Eat a well-balanced diet.
  3. Drink more water.
  4. Use a cool compress or ice pack.
  5. Rest in a dark and quiet room.
  6. Take small amounts pain relievers, like acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
  7. Drink small amounts of caffeine.
  8. Get a massage.

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

Who cannot take Excedrin Migraine?

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: asthma (including a history of worsening breathing with runny/stuffy nose after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, naproxen), certain blood disorders (such as anemia), bleeding or blood clotting problems ( …

Is Excedrin Migraine safe for pregnancy?

Official answer. It is not safe to take Excedrin Migraine during the third trimester of pregnancy because this medication contains aspirin, which may cause harm to your unborn baby or increase your risk of complications during delivery.

Is Excedrin Migraine safe while breastfeeding?

Headache Medications to Avoid When Breastfeeding
Aspirin: Don’t take aspirin or aspirin-containing products when you’re breastfeeding because the drug can cause adverse effects in your baby. Remember that there’s often aspirin in over-the-counter headache medications like Excedrin and Excedrin Migraine.

What can I take for migraine while pregnant?

How can I treat migraine in pregnancy?

  • Paracetamol is the first-choice treatment for mild-to-moderate pain in pregnancy.
  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) might be recommended by a doctor in the first and second trimesters if paracetamol does not control migraine pain.
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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