Home » Blog » Breastfeeding » Can you take a steroid inhaler while breastfeeding?

Can you take a steroid inhaler while breastfeeding?

Can You Take a Steroid Inhaler While Breastfeeding?
The question of whether it is safe to use a steroid inhaler while breastfeeding is one that many new mothers may find themselves asking, especially if they have pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma. The good news is that current medical guidance suggests that inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs), such as fluticasone, are generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers.
Understanding Inhaled Corticosteroids
Inhaled corticosteroids are medications commonly prescribed to manage chronic respiratory conditions. They work by reducing inflammation in the airways, making it easier to breathe. Unlike systemic corticosteroids, which can have more pronounced effects on the body, inhaled corticosteroids are designed to act locally in the lungs, resulting in lower levels of the medication entering the bloodstream and, consequently, breast milk.
Safety Profile During Breastfeeding
Research indicates that the levels of inhaled corticosteroids in breast milk are extremely low, posing minimal risk to breastfeeding infants. According to the NHS and other health resources, inhaled corticosteroids are not associated with adverse effects in breastfed infants when used by mothers. This is largely due to the fact that these medications achieve very low concentrations in maternal plasma, which translates to negligible amounts in breast milk.
Recommendations for Use
While inhaled corticosteroids are deemed safe, it is always advisable for breastfeeding mothers to consult with their healthcare providers before starting any new medication. This ensures that the treatment aligns with their specific health needs and circumstances. In some cases, healthcare professionals may recommend timing the inhaler use to minimize any potential exposure to the infant. For instance, waiting a few hours after using the inhaler before breastfeeding can further reduce any trace amounts in breast milk, although this is often not necessary .
Conclusion
In summary, using a steroid inhaler while breastfeeding is generally safe, with inhaled corticosteroids posing minimal risk to nursing infants. However, as with any medication, it is crucial for mothers to engage in open discussions with their healthcare providers to ensure the best outcomes for both themselves and their babies. This proactive approach not only helps manage the mother’s respiratory health but also supports the well-being of the breastfeeding relationship.

Can you use an inhaler while breastfeeding?

Asthma and breastfeeding
Most asthma medicines are safe to take when breastfeeding. If you have questions, speak to your doctor.

What inhaled steroids are safe during pregnancy?

Common inhaled steroids used during pregnancy include: Pulmicort® (budesonide); Arnuity Elipta®(fluticasone furoate);

Will steroids dry up my milk supply?

High doses might occasionally cause temporary loss of milk supply. Keeping the dose as low as possible will help limit the amount in the breast milk. Levels of prednisone or prednisolone in breast milk are likely to be highest about 1 to 2 hours after taking the medication.

Are steroid inhalers safe while breastfeeding?

Most ICSs have not been studied for use during breastfeeding. However, the amount of medication that passes into breast milk following inhalation is likely small and not expected to cause problems for a breastfeeding infant.

What medications should be avoided while 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.

Can I pass asthma to my baby?

Yes, asthma can be inherited, but that isn’t always the case. What’s passed down is a higher tendency towards developing asthma. If one or both parents have asthma, a child’s likelihood of developing asthma is greater, but it’s not guaranteed that they will get it.

Are steroids safe to take while breastfeeding?

Prednisolone and breastfeeding
If your doctor or health visitor says that your baby is healthy, it’s OK to take prednisolone while breastfeeding. Prednisolone passes into breast milk in small amounts. It has been used for many years in breastfeeding women without side effects in their babies.

Can you take steroids while breastfeeding for asthma?

Acute asthma attacks
Acute attacks may necessitate use of a course of oral steroids, normally 40mg (8 x 5mg tablets) prednisolone. These can be taken during breastfeeding without risk to the baby.

Can steroids harm an unborn baby?

Corticosteroid use in early pregnancy has been linked in some (but not all) studies to a higher chance of having a baby with a cleft lip and/or palate. However, it is clear that the vast majority of babies exposed in the womb to systemic corticosteroids are born without these conditions.

How to treat asthma while breastfeeding?

Asthma can be controlled during breastfeeding with:

  1. inhalers (short and long-acting beta 2 agonists to relieve symptoms.
  2. bronchodilators to prevent symptoms.
  3. compound inhalers,
  4. Prednisolone.
  5. Leukotriene receptor antagonists.
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.

Leave a Comment