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Can I use semaglutide while breastfeeding?

Understanding Semaglutide Use While Breastfeeding
As the popularity of semaglutide, a medication primarily used for managing type 2 diabetes and aiding weight loss, continues to rise, many new mothers are left wondering about its safety during breastfeeding. The question of whether semaglutide can be used while nursing is complex, with varying opinions and limited clinical data.
Current Research and Findings
The available research indicates that semaglutide is unlikely to pose significant risks to breastfeeding infants. According to a study, semaglutide was not detectable in the breast milk of mothers who were administered the drug subcutaneously, and their breastfed infants did not experience any adverse effects. This suggests that the amount of the drug that might transfer into breast milk is minimal, which is reassuring for nursing mothers considering this treatment.
However, it is important to note that while the drug itself may not be present in significant amounts in breast milk, there are other factors to consider. Semaglutide works by lowering blood glucose levels, which can lead to hypoglycemia in infants. This potential risk underscores the need for caution, as low blood sugar in early life can impact a child’s development. Therefore, while the direct transfer of semaglutide into breast milk appears negligible, the effects of the drug on maternal blood sugar levels could indirectly affect breastfeeding infants.
Recommendations for Nursing Mothers
Given the current understanding, healthcare providers generally advise that mothers should consult with their doctors before starting semaglutide while breastfeeding. Individual circumstances, such as the mother’s health status and the infant’s needs, should guide the decision-making process. The consensus among experts is that while semaglutide may be safe for use during breastfeeding, close monitoring of both maternal nutrition and the infant’s health is essential.
Additionally, some sources suggest that due to the lack of extensive clinical studies specifically involving breastfeeding women, caution is warranted. This means that while semaglutide may not pose a direct risk, the absence of comprehensive data means that healthcare providers may recommend alternative treatments or additional monitoring.
Conclusion
In summary, while semaglutide appears to be safe for use during breastfeeding based on current evidence, the potential for maternal hypoglycemia and the lack of extensive clinical studies necessitate a careful approach. Mothers considering semaglutide should engage in thorough discussions with their healthcare providers to weigh the benefits and risks, ensuring both their health and that of their breastfeeding infants are prioritized.

Is semaglutide safe when breastfeeding?

Summary of Use during Lactation
Semaglutide was not detectable in the milk of mothers taking the drug subcutaneously. Their breastfed infants experienced no adverse effects. No special precautions appear to be necessary.

What can you take for weight loss while breastfeeding?

It is important to remember that breastfeeding mothers should not take any form of weight loss medication unless instructed by their doctor. The potential risks of taking weight loss medication while breastfeeding may outweigh the benefits.

What is the safest weight loss while breastfeeding?

If you are breastfeeding, you will want to lose weight slowly. Weight loss that happens too fast can make you produce less milk. Losing about a pound and a half (670 grams) a week should not affect your milk supply or your health. Breastfeeding makes your body burn calories which helps you lose weight.

Who Cannot use semaglutide?

Avoid semaglutide if you have: History of medullary thyroid cancer. History of gallbladder disease. History of pancreatitis.

Can you have Ozempic while breastfeeding?

As a result, since the potential risks to nursing infants are not fully understood, healthcare professionals typically advise against using Ozempic while breastfeeding unless the benefits of the medication significantly outweigh the potential risks.

Can you take semaglutide postpartum?

Wegovy is a brand-name subcutaneous injection prescribed for weight management and lowering cardiovascular risks. It contains the active drug semaglutide. It may not be safe to use Wegovy during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

Can you be on semaglutide while pregnant?

It’s unclear if semaglutide can be harmful in pregnancy. But data from animal studies suggest it should not be used in pregnancy due to potential risks of fetal abnormalities. That’s why the Therapeutic Goods Administration recommends women of childbearing potential use contraception when taking semaglutide.

How to lose 20 pounds in a month while breastfeeding?

How to Lose 20 Pounds While Breast-feeding

  1. Breastfeed as often as the baby shows hunger cues and avoid giving the infant formula.
  2. Decrease your caloric intake to around 1,500 to 1,800 calories a day.
  3. Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
  4. Exercise for 30 minutes or more, on most days of the week.

Are weight loss injections safe while breastfeeding?

Due to safety concerns, medications for weight loss therapy are not recommended for patients who are breastfeeding.”

Can I go on Ozempic after giving birth?

Your provider can recommend a strategy for safely navigating pregnancy and losing weight after pregnancy. This may include resuming Ozempic after pregnancy and breastfeeding.

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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