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Can you have Diflucan while breastfeeding?

Can You Have Diflucan While Breastfeeding?
When it comes to treating fungal infections during breastfeeding, Diflucan, which contains the active ingredient fluconazole, is often a topic of concern for nursing mothers. Understanding its safety profile is crucial for both the mother and the infant.
Safety of Fluconazole in Breastfeeding
Fluconazole is generally considered acceptable for use in nursing mothers. Research indicates that while fluconazole does enter breast milk, the concentration is significantly lower than the therapeutic doses typically administered to infants for treating infections. Specifically, the amount of fluconazole found in breast milk is estimated to be less than what would be given directly to an infant for treatment. This suggests that the risk to breastfeeding infants is minimal when the mother is treated with fluconazole.
Clinical Insights
Despite the lack of extensive clinical studies specifically examining fluconazole’s effects on breastfeeding, healthcare professionals often prescribe it for conditions like Candida mastitis or recurrent nipple thrush. The consensus among experts is that the benefits of treating the mother with fluconazole outweigh potential risks to the breastfeeding infant.
For instance, a common regimen might involve a loading dose of 400 mg followed by 100 mg daily for a period of at least two weeks, especially in cases where other treatments have failed. This approach is supported by anecdotal evidence and surveys from breastfeeding medicine specialists, which indicate that fluconazole is effective and safe for nursing mothers.
Considerations and Recommendations
While fluconazole is classified as an L2 medication (which indicates that it is usually compatible with breastfeeding), some mothers have reported issues such as increased reflux in their infants after exposure to fluconazole through breast milk. Therefore, it is essential for mothers to monitor their infants for any adverse reactions and consult healthcare providers if concerns arise.
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can safely use Diflucan for treating fungal infections, provided they are under the guidance of a healthcare professional. The low levels of fluconazole in breast milk and its established efficacy make it a viable option for managing infections without significant risk to the nursing infant.

How can I prevent a yeast infection while breastfeeding?

Here are some things you and everyone else in your household should do to stop thrush spreading:

  1. wash hands thoroughly, especially after nappy changes.
  2. use separate towels.
  3. wash and sterilise dummies, teats and any toys your baby may put in their mouth.
  4. change your breast pads often.

Can a nursing mother take a yeast tablet?

Brewer’s yeast is often recommended as a nutritional supplement during breastfeeding. It can be taken to help increase your supply of breastmilk, but it is also believed to combat fatigue and fight off the baby blues. Adults- Take one to four tablets, three times daily (with food), or as professionally prescribed.

Can you take Diflucan for yeast infection under breast?

If these treatments aren’t effective, your doctor can prescribe an oral antifungal medication, like fluconazole (Diflucan). If your rash doesn’t improve after treatment with antifungal medications, talk with your doctor about investigating your skin condition further.

What meds should I avoid when breastfeeding?

Common medicines that are not recommended when you’re breastfeeding include:

  • codeine phosphate.
  • decongestants that come as tablets, liquids or powders that you swallow.
  • some nasal decongestants that come as nose sprays or drops – check with a GP or pharmacist before using them.
  • aspirin for pain relief.

How to treat a yeast infection postpartum?

You’ll be given antibiotics to treat the infection. Be sure to let your provider know if you’re breastfeeding because that will influence which medications they prescribe. Oral antibiotics are usually enough, but in some situations, you may need intravenous antibiotics and possibly other treatment.

Is Diflucan safe for breastfeeding mothers?

If your doctor or health visitor says your baby is healthy, you can take fluconazole when you’re breastfeeding. There is not much information about how much fluconazole passes into breast milk, but information shows that the amounts are fairly high compared to most other medicines.

What yeast infection medicine is safe while breastfeeding?

A: Topical creams or vaginal suppositories are the recommended yeast infection treatment options during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Over-the-counter medications such as Miconazole, Clotrimazole, and Terconazole have been shown to eliminate a yeast infection safely and effectively.

Is Diflucan safe for babies?

Fluconazole is relatively safe for paediatric patients. Hepatotoxicity and gastrointestinal toxicity are the most common adverse events. It is important to be aware that drug interactions with fluconazole can result in significant toxicity.

How do you treat fungal infection while breastfeeding?

Miconazole 2% Cream for surface thrush. Best practice is to apply a small amount sparingly to the nipple and areola after every feed rather than the licensed twice daily treatment. Any cream which can be seen should be wiped off gently prior to the next feed to reduce further nipple damage.

What antifungals are safe while breastfeeding?

Topical antifungals
Miconazole: is the preferred topical azole, compatible with breastfeeding. Topical terbinafine: as less than 5% of the applied dose is absorbed through the skin, topical use is regarded as safe when 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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