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Can I take Zofran and breastfeed?

Understanding Zofran and Breastfeeding
Zofran, known generically as ondansetron, is a medication commonly prescribed to alleviate nausea and vomiting, particularly in situations such as postoperative recovery or during pregnancy. For breastfeeding mothers, the question of whether it is safe to take Zofran while nursing is a significant concern, especially for those experiencing postpartum nausea.
Safety Profile of Zofran During Breastfeeding
Current evidence suggests that Zofran is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. Although comprehensive studies specifically addressing its effects during lactation are limited, available data indicates that no adverse effects have been reported in breastfeeding infants. In fact, ondansetron has been administered directly to infants as young as one month old without any noted side effects .
Moreover, Zofran is frequently used in clinical settings, such as during and after cesarean sections, without impacting the initiation of breastfeeding. This suggests that the medication does not interfere with the breastfeeding process itself, which is a crucial consideration for new mothers.
Clinical Recommendations and Considerations
While the use of Zofran during breastfeeding is deemed compatible, it is essential for mothers to consult with their healthcare providers before taking any medication. Individual circumstances, such as the mother’s health status and the specific reasons for taking Zofran, should be evaluated. The consensus among healthcare professionals is that the benefits of managing nausea effectively often outweigh potential risks, especially when the medication has been widely used in both pregnant women and young children.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can generally take Zofran without significant concern for their infants. The medication’s safety profile, combined with its established use in clinical practice, supports its compatibility with breastfeeding. However, as with any medication, it is always best to seek personalized medical advice to ensure the health and well-being of both mother and child.

What are the side effects of Zofran for nurses?

Adverse Reactions/Side Effects
CNS: headache, dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, weakness. GI: constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, dry mouth, increased liver enzymes.

Can you still feel nauseous after taking Zofran?

It’s possible for you to still feel nauseous and vomit even after taking ondansetron (Zofran). Depending on how soon you threw up after you took your dose of ondansetron (Zofran), you might be able to retake your dose, depending on the formulation you have.

What is the safest anti-nausea medication for pregnancy?

Metoclopramide (Maxolon, Pramin) – a simple anti-nausea medication taken anywhere from once to four times a day. This medication has been used for a long time in pregnancy and has a long record of safety. It can be given as a tablet or an intravenous or intramuscular injection.

What is the best medicine for upset stomach while breastfeeding?

Cimetidine, ranitidine, famotidine
Ranitidine and famotidine appear to carry minimal risk in pregnant women,6, 7 cimetidine has a small risk. Similarly, ranitidine and famotidine are the preferred choices in breastfeeding women.

Can Zofran affect the baby?

If you are pregnant and have taken ondansetron or Zofran® during pregnancy, I want to reassure you that it likely has not affected your baby. Even if the increased risk for cleft palate or heart defects turns out to be true, the risk to your baby is still very, very small.

Is Zofran safe for infants?

Oral ondansetron therapy, as a single dose, should be considered for infants and children six months to 12 years of age who present to the ED with vomiting related to suspected acute gastroenteritis, and who have mild to moderate dehydration or who have failed oral rehydration therapy.

What can nursing mothers take for upset stomach?

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends kaolin-pectin products (such as Kaopectate) or loperamide products (such as Imodium) for nursing mothers with diarrhea. Bismuth subsalicylate compounds (such as Pepto Bismol) contain enough aspirin ingredients that they may not be safe for your baby.

Can you take anything for nausea while breastfeeding?

Some people are prescribed (or buy) prochlorperazine (Buccastem ®, Stemetil ®) tablets to relieve the nausea and vomiting, loperamide (Imodium®) to reduce the symptoms of diarrhoea and rehydrating sachets (Dioralyte ®) to prevent dehydration. These drugs are suitable to take and carry on breastfeeding as normal.

When should Zofran be avoided?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  1. Heart disease.
  2. History of irregular heartbeat.
  3. Liver disease.
  4. Low levels of magnesium or potassium in the blood.
  5. An unusual or allergic reaction to ondansetron, granisetron, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives.
  6. Pregnant or trying to get pregnant.

Is it safe to take Zofran while breastfeeding?

Side effects in breastfeeding infants have not been reported. Ondansetron has been given directly to infants as young as 1 month of age. Be sure to talk to your healthcare provider about all your breastfeeding questions.

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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