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Can you take amoxicillin 500mg while breastfeeding?

Amoxicillin and Breastfeeding: What You Need to Know
When it comes to taking medications while breastfeeding, many mothers understandably have concerns about the safety of their infants. One common antibiotic prescribed is amoxicillin, and the good news is that it is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers.
Safety Profile of Amoxicillin
Amoxicillin is a penicillin-type antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, amoxicillin is classified as safe for use during breastfeeding. This classification is based on research indicating that only minimal amounts of the drug transfer into breast milk, which are unlikely to cause any adverse effects in breastfed infants.
Potential Side Effects
While the transfer of amoxicillin into breast milk is low, some minor side effects have been reported in breastfed infants. These can include drowsiness, diarrhea, and occasionally a rash. However, these effects are typically infrequent and short-lived, resolving without the need for medical intervention. Additionally, there have been instances of gastrointestinal disturbances, such as thrush, due to disruption of the infant’s gut flora.
Recommendations for Use
Healthcare professionals often recommend that breastfeeding mothers do not need to stop nursing while taking amoxicillin. The Breastfeeding Network emphasizes that the low absorption of the drug by infants means that there is no significant risk associated with continuing to breastfeed during treatment.
Moreover, the NHS confirms that it is perfectly acceptable to take amoxicillin while breastfeeding, reiterating that only tiny amounts of the drug are present in breast milk.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are a breastfeeding mother prescribed amoxicillin, you can generally feel confident in taking this medication. The benefits of treating your infection typically outweigh the minimal risks to your infant. However, as with any medication, it is always wise to consult with your healthcare provider to discuss your specific situation and any concerns you may have.

What are the side effects of amoxicillin in breastfed babies?

These small amounts are not expected to cause side effects for most nursing infants. In a study of 67 breastfeeding infants, there were no serious side effects from this medication in the breast milk. Some babies had rash, diarrhea, irritability, or constipation, but these reactions did not last long.

How long does amoxicillin stay in your breast milk?

Amoxicillin Levels and Effects while Breastfeeding
Average milk levels were 0.69 mg/L (range 0.46 to 0.88 mg/L) at 4 hours and 0.81 mg/L (range 0.39 to 1.3 mg/L) at 5 hours after the dose.

What antibiotics can a breastfeeding mother take?

The following antibiotics are all safe to take whilst breastfeeding;

  • Amoxycillin, Amoxil ®,
  • Azithromycin, Zithromax®,
  • Cefaclor, Distaclor®,
  • Cefuroxime, Zinnat®
  • Cephalexin, Cefalexin, Keflex®,
  • Cephradine, Velosef®,
  • Clarithromycin, Klaricid®,
  • Co-amoxiclav, Augmentin®,

Can antibiotics mess with my milk supply?

In most cases, antibiotics are safe for breastfeeding parents and their babies. “Antibiotics are one of the most common medications mothers are prescribed, and all pass in some degree into milk,” explains the Academy of American Pediatrics (AAP).

Can amoxicillin make baby sick?

Some children get diarrhoea, stomach pains and may feel sick or be sick (vomit) when they first start taking Amoxicillin.

What are the side effects of amoxicillin in infants?

Check with your child’s health-care provider if your child continues to have any of these side effects, and they do not go away, or they bother your child: Loose or watery bowel movements (diarrhea) stomach cramps or bloating (fullness) upset stomach or throwing up (vomiting)

Can you mix amoxicillin with breast milk?

Amoxicillin can be reconstituted with breast milk for use in infants.

Can I take amoxicillin 500 mg while breastfeeding?

It is OK to take amoxicillin while breastfeeding. Information shows that only tiny amounts of amoxicillin get into breast milk. Such levels would not be expected to cause side effects in your baby.

Can you mix amoxicillin with breastmilk?

Amoxicillin can be reconstituted with breast milk for use in infants.

What are the side effects of amoxicillin for babies?

Side effects you must do something about
If your child is short of breath or is wheezing, or their face, lips or tongue start to swell, or they develop a rash, they may be allergic to Amoxicillin. Take your child to hospital or phone for an ambulance straight away.

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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