Can I take Adderall while breastfeeding?

Understanding Adderall and Breastfeeding
The question of whether it is safe to take Adderall while breastfeeding is a complex one, with varying opinions among healthcare professionals. Adderall, a medication commonly prescribed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), contains amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. While it is effective for managing ADHD symptoms, its implications during breastfeeding require careful consideration.
Safety Profile of Adderall During Lactation
Research on the use of Adderall in breastfeeding mothers is limited, leading to some uncertainty. According to Dr. Jessica Madden, a pediatrician and neonatologist, there is “not much research on the use of amphetamines, such as Adderall, during lactation and breastfeeding”. This lack of extensive studies means that while some information is available, it is not comprehensive.
However, it is generally understood that Adderall does pass into breast milk, but the levels are typically low. This suggests that while the medication can be detected in breast milk, the amount that an infant would ingest through breastfeeding is minimal. The InfantRisk Center indicates that if the relative infant dose (RID) of a medication is less than 10%, it is usually considered safe for breastfeeding.
Recommendations for Breastfeeding Mothers
Given the potential risks and benefits, healthcare providers often recommend that mothers consult with their doctors before starting or continuing Adderall while breastfeeding. This is crucial because individual circumstances can vary significantly. Factors such as the mother’s health, the dosage of Adderall, and the infant’s health should all be taken into account.
Moreover, while some sources suggest that Adderall is considered safe during breastfeeding, others caution that it may not be entirely without risk. For instance, misuse of Adderall can complicate both pregnancy and breastfeeding, leading to adverse health effects.
Conclusion
In summary, while Adderall can be taken by breastfeeding mothers, it is essential to approach this decision with caution. The medication does pass into breast milk, but typically at low levels. Consulting with a healthcare provider is vital to ensure that both the mother’s and the infant’s health are prioritized. Each case should be evaluated individually, weighing the benefits of treating ADHD against any potential risks to the breastfeeding infant.

Does Adderall affect baby?

Most studies conducted to find the effects of Adderall on a fetus utilizedanimal testing. The drug was found to cause birth defects and increase the possibility of miscarriages in lab mice. Adderall also caused the mice to be born prematurely, have a low birth weight and experience withdrawal symptoms.

When should a mom not breastfeed?

Women who actively use drugs or do not control their alcohol intake, or who have a history of these situations, also may be advised not to breastfeed. Infants who have galactosemia—a rare metabolic disorder in which the body cannot digest the sugar galactose—should not be breastfed.

Which drugs cannot be taken when 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.

How long is Adderall in breastmilk?

Prescribed Ritalin® (methylphenidate) remains in human milk for about 21 hours after use. Prescribed Adderall® (dextroamphetamine and amphetamine) remains in human milk for over 24 hours. Can stimulants enter human milk? Yes.

Can a nurse be on Adderall?

According to the National Institutes of Mental Health, an estimated 4 to 5% of adults have ADHD and there are non-controlled substances which work for nearly all these patients. Therefore, it is a strong warning of the Boards that nurses should not take controlled substances including Adderall.

Can I take 5mg of Adderall while pregnant?

While there are many meds you can continue to take during your 9 months of baby-growing, one that’s not generally considered safe is Adderall, the medication used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

What drugs can be passed through breast milk?

Most drug molecules, including alcohol, nicotine and caffeine, are small enough to enter milk. Exceptions are drugs with high molecular weights such as heparins and insulin.

How long does Adderall stay in your breastmilk?

Prescribed Adderall® (dextroamphetamine and amphetamine) remains in human milk for over 24 hours. Can stimulants enter human milk? Yes. If you take stimulants, your milk will have stimulants in it.

What ADHD medication can I take while breastfeeding?

Hi, thanks for your post. The most popular medications for ADHD (Vyvanse, Ritalin, Adderall, and Dexadrine) are all compatible with breastfeeding when taken as prescribed. Just watch your child for any new signs of significant insomnia, agitation, or poor weight gain.

Is Adderall ok while breastfeeding?

In general, it’s important to be very cautious with Adderall while breastfeeding and to keep in mind that the drug does pass into breast milk.