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Does ibuprofen dry up breast milk?

Understanding Ibuprofen and Breastfeeding
The question of whether ibuprofen can dry up breast milk is a concern for many nursing mothers. To address this, it’s essential to look at how ibuprofen interacts with lactation and its effects on breast milk supply.
Ibuprofen’s Presence in Breast Milk
Research indicates that ibuprofen is generally safe for use during breastfeeding. When lactating women take ibuprofen, particularly in doses of up to 400 mg every six hours, the amount that actually enters breast milk is minimal—less than 1 mg per day. This low level of excretion means that the drug is unlikely to have any significant impact on the nursing infant.
Effects on Milk Supply
While ibuprofen itself does not appear to directly reduce breast milk supply, it is important to consider the broader context of medications and lactation. Certain medications, particularly those that affect hormone levels, can influence milk production. For instance, drugs that lower prolactin levels—such as some fertility medications—are known to potentially decrease milk supply. However, ibuprofen does not fall into this category.
Recommendations for Nursing Mothers
Health professionals often recommend ibuprofen as a preferred analgesic for nursing mothers due to its safety profile and the negligible amounts that transfer into breast milk. Moreover, some studies suggest that using ibuprofen in conjunction with acetaminophen can actually support breastfeeding by managing pain effectively, which may help mothers maintain a more comfortable breastfeeding experience.
Conclusion
In summary, ibuprofen does not dry up breast milk and is considered safe for nursing mothers when used as directed. Its low levels in breast milk and the absence of significant effects on milk supply make it a viable option for pain relief during breastfeeding. As always, nursing mothers should consult with their healthcare providers before starting any medication to ensure it aligns with their individual health needs and circumstances.

What drugs stop breast milk secretion?

Using medication to stop your breast milk
Taking drugs such as Cabergoline or Dostinex® to stop breast milk works best for mothers who have not been breastfeeding for long. Talk to your doctor, midwife or nurse if you would like more information about these drugs.

Can I breastfeed my baby if I took ibuprofen?

You can take ibuprofen or use it on your skin while breastfeeding. It is one of the painkillers that’s usually recommended if you’re breastfeeding. Only tiny amounts get into breast milk and it’s unlikely to cause side effects in your baby. Many people have used it while breastfeeding without any problems.

How long does it take for ibuprofen to get out of breast milk?

Ibuprofen was present in the serum with a half-life of approximately 1.5 hours. No measurable amounts of ibuprofen were found in the samples of breast milk. The conclusion drawn is that, in lactating women who take up to 400 mg of ibuprofen every 6 hours, less than 1 mg of ibuprofen per day is excreted in breast milk.

What medications drop milk supply?

For example, antihistamines like Benadryl, Zyrtec, Allegra, etc, or decongestants like Sudafed, can decrease your milk supply. So please call us if you are breastfeeding and need clarification on the safety of a medication or to see if a medication you are taking may be affecting your milk supply while breastfeeding.

What causes breast milk to dry up?

Possible causes of low supply
Nearly all babies need to feed at least 8 to 12 times in 24 hours. Your baby does not feed effectively at the breast. You have started using formula milk as well as breastfeeding. You have had breast surgery that is affecting your milk supply.

What medication dries up breast milk?

Women sometimes to ask for a tablet to stop their milk supply. This medication works best if it is taken within 12- 24 hours of your baby’s birth. The medication is not routinely prescribed in hospital due to the many side effects and health risks with this medication. The medication is called cabergoline (Dostinex®).

How long does it take to flush out ibuprofen?

A regular 400mg dose of Ibuprofen will be eliminated from your system in about 10-24 hours. It’s not habit-forming, so there is a low potential to develop painkiller addiction. But, some people can become psychologically addicted to Ibuprofen. Chronic Ibuprofen use can damage your stomach lining and kidney function.

Does ibuprofen stop milk supply?

Your baby receives very little of the medication in your milk, and very few meds will affect your milk supply. Tylenol and ibuprofen are fine to take for pain relief and fever, for example. For allergies and colds, most antihistamines are okay, but some decongestants can decrease your milk supply.

How do I dry up breast milk asap?

Tips for Drying Up Your Breast Milk

  1. Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen.
  2. Put cold packs on your breasts.
  3. Use cold cabbage leaves (wash fresh cabbage and refrigerate; pull off one leaf at a time and lay them over your breasts; keep the leaves on your skin until they get soft).

Do Tylenol and ibuprofen affect breast milk?

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.

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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