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Can you have oxy while breastfeeding?

Can You Have Oxycodone While Breastfeeding?
The question of whether it is safe to use oxycodone while breastfeeding is a significant concern for many new mothers managing pain. Oxycodone, an opioid medication, is known for its effectiveness in treating moderate to severe pain, but its use during lactation raises important health considerations for both the mother and the infant.
Effects on Infants
Research indicates that maternal use of oxycodone can lead to adverse effects in breastfed infants. Notably, infants may experience drowsiness, which can escalate to severe central nervous system depression in rare cases. This is particularly concerning for newborns, who are more sensitive to the effects of opioids. The potential for sedation in infants necessitates careful monitoring if a breastfeeding mother is prescribed oxycodone.
Guidelines and Recommendations
Health organizations, including the NHS, provide guidance on the use of oxycodone during breastfeeding. They emphasize that while some mothers may need to take this medication for pain management, it is crucial to weigh the benefits against the risks. The general recommendation is that if a mother must use oxycodone, she should do so under strict medical supervision, ensuring that both her health and her baby’s safety are prioritized.
Consulting Healthcare Providers
It is essential for breastfeeding mothers to consult with their healthcare providers before starting oxycodone. Medical professionals can offer personalized advice based on the mother’s health status, the dosage of oxycodone, and the age and health of the infant. This tailored approach helps in making informed decisions that consider both pain management for the mother and the well-being of the child.
Conclusion
In summary, while oxycodone can be prescribed to breastfeeding mothers, it comes with significant risks that must be carefully managed. The potential for infant sedation and other adverse effects means that any use of this medication should be closely monitored by healthcare professionals. Mothers are encouraged to discuss their pain management options thoroughly with their doctors to ensure the safest approach for both themselves and their babies.

What can I take for joint pain while breastfeeding?

It is important to consider a pain reliever’s benefits for you and its effect on your baby. Ibuprofen is usually the preferred first step because little of it passes through breastmilk. Acetaminophen also is safe to take while breastfeeding.

Which drug is usually avoided with breastfeeding?

Table. Examples of drugs contraindicated in breastfeeding.

Drug Comment
Iodine High doses (>150 micrograms daily) lead to risk of infant hypothyroidism
Lithium Breastfeeding only feasible with rigorous monitoring
Radiopharmaceuticals Contact obstetric information service
Retinoids (oral) Potential for serious adverse effects

Is oxycodone safe postpartum?

Oxycodone used around the time of delivery can affect the baby after birth. The baby may be ‘jittery’, have feeding problems, and initially need some help with breathing. These problems usually settle within the first few days.

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.

What is the safest opioid for breastfeeding?

Morphine, codeine, hydrocodone, fentanyl, and hydromorphone have been determined, by several studies, to be moderately safe for breastfeeding women. However, morphine is the preferred opiate to use by a breastfeeding mother due to its poor oral bioavailability.

What meds can you not take while breastfeeding?

These include:

  • Pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin).
  • Some cold and influenza (flu) medicines.
  • Most antibiotics.
  • Antidepressants.
  • Anticoagulants (blood thinners).
  • Diabetes medicines (such as insulin).
  • Decongestants with pseudoephedrine (such as Sudafed).

What passes through breast milk?

Foods and drinks to avoid while breastfeeding
Caffeine passes into breastmilk, so large amounts of tea, coffee and cola drinks are best avoided. Drinking small amounts of drinks with caffeine (3 or less drinks a day) should not be a problem. Alcohol also passes into breastmilk and can affect your baby.

Is oxy safe for 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 long does oxycodone stay in your breast milk?

Conclusions: Oxycodone is concentrated in human breast milk up to 72-h post-partum. Breastfed infants may receive > 10% of a therapeutic infant dose. However, maternal oxycodone intake up to 72-h post-CS poses only minimal risk to the breast-feeding infant as low volumes of breast milk are ingested during this period.

Which drugs Cannot be taken when breastfeeding?

ANSWER: Only a few drugs pose a clinically significant risk to breastfed babies. In general, antineoplastics, drugs of abuse, some anticonvulsants, ergot alkaloids, and radiopharmaceuticals should not be taken, and levels of amiodarone, cyclosporine, and lithium should be monitored.

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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