Can nursing mothers take Prilosec?

Can Nursing Mothers Take Prilosec?
For nursing mothers grappling with heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), the question of whether to take Prilosec, which contains the active ingredient omeprazole, is a significant concern. Understanding the safety of this medication during breastfeeding is crucial for both the mother’s health and the well-being of her infant.
Safety Profile of Omeprazole in Breastfeeding
Research indicates that omeprazole is generally considered safe for use while breastfeeding. According to the Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed), maternal doses of 20 mg daily result in low levels of the drug in breast milk. These levels are not expected to cause adverse effects in breastfed infants. This finding is reassuring for mothers who need to manage their acid-related conditions without compromising their baby’s health.
Expert Opinions and Recommendations
Experts in the field of pharmacology and breastfeeding, such as Thomas W. Hale, RPh, PhD, emphasize that while some medications can pose risks during lactation, omeprazole is not typically one of them. The consensus among healthcare professionals is that the benefits of treating severe heartburn or GERD with Prilosec often outweigh the potential risks, especially given the low transfer of the drug into breast milk.
Potential Side Effects and Considerations
While omeprazole is deemed safe, nursing mothers should still be aware of potential side effects. Common side effects of Prilosec include headache, nausea, and stomach pain. Mothers should monitor their own health and any reactions in their infants, although serious adverse effects are rare.
Conclusion
In summary, nursing mothers can take Prilosec with a reasonable assurance of safety for their infants. The low levels of omeprazole in breast milk and the lack of significant adverse effects reported in breastfed infants make it a viable option for managing heartburn. However, as with any medication, it is always advisable for mothers to consult with their healthcare provider to discuss their specific circumstances and ensure the best outcomes for both themselves and their babies.

How to treat acid reflux while breastfeeding?

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.

What are the side effects of Prilosec for infants?

Call your child’s doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother your child or do not go away:

• Headache.
• Upset stomach or throwing up.
• Stomach pain or diarrhea.
• Gas.

Is it safe to take Prilosec while pregnant?

Omeprazole and pregnancy
Omeprazole is safe to take during pregnancy. However, it may be better to try to treat indigestion without taking medicine. You could try eating smaller meals more often, and avoiding fatty and spicy foods. Sitting up straight when you eat will also take the pressure off your stomach.

What are the side effects of omeprazole for babies?

Possible adverse effects of omeprazole include:
Headache, diarrhoea, vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain, dry mouth, constipation, dizziness, insomnia, skin rashes (common).

Is omeprazole safe for babies?

Omeprazole can be taken by most adults. It can also be taken by children and babies if it’s been prescribed by a doctor.

Is it safe to take Prilosec while breastfeeding?

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.

Can I give omeprazole to my breastfed baby?

It works as a thickener to make milk less likely to reflux back up the food pipe. doctor may prescribe. It can take up to 2 weeks to work to improve symptoms. The dose of Omeprazole should be increased after discussion with your doctor as the child gains weight.

What antacid is safe while breastfeeding?

Medications that are considered safe for breastfeeding
Antacids (Maalox, Mylanta, Tums) Anticoagulants (blood thinners such as Lovenox, Fragmin, Innohep, Heparin) Antihistamines (such as Claritin; Benadryl is also safe but may cause infant drowsiness)

What antacids are safe while breastfeeding?

Medications that are considered safe for breastfeeding
Antacids (Maalox, Mylanta, Tums) Anticoagulants (blood thinners such as Lovenox, Fragmin, Innohep, Heparin) Antihistamines (such as Claritin; Benadryl is also safe but may cause infant drowsiness)