Can you breastfeed taking percocet?

Can You Breastfeed While Taking Percocet?
Breastfeeding is a crucial aspect of infant care, providing essential nutrients and fostering a strong bond between mother and child. However, when it comes to medication, particularly opioids like Percocet, concerns arise regarding the safety of both the mother and the breastfeeding infant.
Understanding Percocet and Its Components
Percocet is a prescription medication that combines oxycodone, an opioid pain reliever, with acetaminophen. While effective for managing pain, the use of Percocet during breastfeeding raises significant safety concerns. Research indicates that maternal use of oral opioids can lead to adverse effects in breastfed infants, including drowsiness and, in severe cases, central nervous system depression. This is particularly concerning for newborns, who are more sensitive to the effects of such medications.
Risks Associated with Breastfeeding While Taking Percocet
Health professionals generally advise against the use of Percocet while breastfeeding unless absolutely necessary. The potential risks to the infant include sedation and respiratory issues, which can be life-threatening. Studies have shown that infants exposed to oxycodone through breast milk may experience increased drowsiness, which can progress to more severe complications.
Moreover, the addictive nature of opioids poses another layer of risk. Even when taken under medical supervision, there is a potential for addiction, which can complicate both the mother’s recovery and the infant’s health.
Guidance from Health Authorities
Organizations such as the NHS and various health databases recommend that breastfeeding mothers avoid Percocet if possible. They emphasize the importance of discussing any medication use with healthcare providers to weigh the benefits against the risks. If a mother must take Percocet for pain management, healthcare professionals may suggest monitoring the infant closely for any signs of sedation or distress.
Conclusion
In summary, while it may be necessary for some mothers to take Percocet for pain relief, the associated risks to breastfeeding infants are significant. The potential for sedation and severe respiratory issues makes it crucial for mothers to consult with healthcare providers to explore safer alternatives. Ultimately, the health and safety of both mother and child should guide decisions regarding medication use during breastfeeding.

What painkillers are safe while breastfeeding?

Most over-the-counter (also called OTC) medicine, like pain relievers and cold medicine, are OK to take when you’re breastfeeding. For example, OTC pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil®) or acetaminophen (Tylenol®) are safe to use when breastfeeding.

Can oxycodone pass in breast milk?

Oxycodone and breastfeeding
Although only small amounts of oxycodone pass into breast milk, it may still cause side effects in your baby such as breathing problems, being very sleepy, or difficulty feeding. Because of this potential risk, your doctor may recommend a different painkiller while you’re breastfeeding.

What is the safest opioid while breastfeeding?

Morphine is the strong opioid analgesic of choice for treating pain in breastfeeding. Recommendations apply to full term and healthy infants only.

Is it safe to take oxycodone while breastfeeding?

Oxycodone and breastfeeding
Although only small amounts of oxycodone pass into breast milk, it may still cause side effects in your baby such as breathing problems, being very sleepy, or difficulty feeding. Because of this potential risk, your doctor may recommend a different painkiller while you’re breastfeeding.

How soon after narcotics can you breastfeed?

A breastfeeding plan
If you do use drugs such as amphetamines or heroin as a one-off, you will need to express your breast milk in the 24 hours afterwards and throw it away before you breastfeed again. After using drugs, it is not safe for you to care for or breastfeed your baby.

Can you breastfeed on oxycodone?

Oxycodone and breastfeeding
Although only small amounts of oxycodone pass into breast milk, it may still cause side effects in your baby such as breathing problems, being very sleepy, or difficulty feeding. Because of this potential risk, your doctor may recommend a different painkiller while you’re breastfeeding.

How long does percocet stay in breastmilk?

How Long Will Percocet Stay in Breastmilk? Oxycodone, the opioid component in Percocet, can stay present in breast milk for 2–3 days. Researchers estimate that approximately 8% of oxycodone transfers from the mother’s body into the milk. This may be enough to cause adverse reactions in infants.

Is percocet safe to take while pregnant?

Taking opioids during pregnancy can cause serious problems for your baby. If you’re pregnant or thinking about getting pregnant and taking an opioid, tell your health care provider. You may be able to change to a medicine that’s safer for your baby.

How much oxycodone can you take while breastfeeding?

Oxycodone should be administered to breastfeeding mothers at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible. Dose should be limited to no more than 40 mg in a 24 h period for no longer than 3 days.

Is percocet the same as oxycodone?

Percocet contains five milligrams of oxycodone, which is all released when the pill is taken. Percocet also contains acetaminophen (the drug in Tylenol), which can cause liver damage if you take a lot of it. Oxycodone-CR products contain only oxycodone. When taken as prescribed, the drug is released over several hours.