Does Zoloft dry up breast milk?

Understanding Zoloft and Its Impact on Breastfeeding
Zoloft, known generically as sertraline, is a commonly prescribed antidepressant that falls under the category of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). For new mothers grappling with postpartum depression or anxiety, the question of whether Zoloft affects breastfeeding is crucial.
Safety of Zoloft During Breastfeeding
Research indicates that Zoloft is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. According to various health sources, including GoodRx and other medical reviews, the medication does not significantly harm infants when taken by nursing mothers. In fact, the consensus among healthcare professionals is that the benefits of treating maternal depression often outweigh the potential risks associated with medication.
Does Zoloft Dry Up Breast Milk?
While Zoloft itself is not known to directly cause a decrease in breast milk supply, it is essential to recognize that some medications can impact lactation. A review of available literature suggests that certain drugs may lead to reduced milk production, but Zoloft is not typically listed among them. Instead, the primary concern for breastfeeding mothers is ensuring that their mental health is adequately managed, as untreated depression can adversely affect both the mother and the infant.
Potential Risks and Considerations
Although Zoloft is deemed safe, it is not without its caveats. Some mothers may experience side effects that could indirectly influence their ability to breastfeed effectively. For instance, if a mother experiences fatigue or other side effects from the medication, it might affect her overall energy levels and willingness to nurse. Additionally, while the medication is excreted in breast milk, the levels are usually low and not considered harmful to infants.
Conclusion
In summary, Zoloft is generally safe for breastfeeding mothers and does not typically dry up breast milk. However, each mother’s situation is unique, and it is crucial for those considering or currently taking Zoloft to consult with their healthcare provider. This ensures that both their mental health needs and breastfeeding goals are adequately addressed, fostering a healthier environment for both mother and child.

How long does Zoloft take to work for PPD?

“SSRIs – which are medications like Prozac and Zoloft – can take anywhere up to 8 weeks to be effective,” says Dr. Headrick. “With zuranolone, it has shown effectiveness in the first two weeks, and symptom improvement was sustained for up to 4 weeks after the 14-day course of treatment.”

How does Zoloft affect breast milk?

Is it possible for Zoloft to be transmitted through breast milk? Yes, but not as much as other antidepressants. Studies have found that negligible amounts of Zoloft are excreted in breast milk. There haven’t been any clear reports of sertraline causing side effects or growth abnormalities in breastfed infants.

How does sertraline affect a newborn after birth?

Taking sertraline throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding does not seem to have any effects on physical or mental development or behaviour over the first years of the child’s life. There have been several large studies of mums taking antidepressants in pregnancy and the risk of the baby then having ADHD or autism.

What happens to breastfed babies on antidepressants?

There are also two reports of excessive somnolence, decreased feeding and weight loss in breastfed infants. In studies no adverse effects on the babies were noted. If the baby shows less than expected weight gain it might be prudent to discontinue the drug and change to another SSRI.

Does SSRI decrease milk supply?

In brief, numerous animal studies have established serotonergic transmission as a key regulator of lactation homeostasis, with increased levels of serotonergic activity (including through use of SRIs) accelerating the rate of mammary gland involution, leading to a reduction in milk production 17.

What does Zoloft do for postpartum?

How does the PPD pill work? We’ve long been using general antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), best known by brand-names like Prozac or Zoloft, to help treat PPD by increasing levels of serotonin in the brain.

Can Zoloft affect breasts?

Nipple Discharge
Zoloft can cause the discharge of breast milk in women who are not lactating, a condition known as galactorrhea. This reaction to Zoloft is driven by prolactin levels that are too high.

What is the best anxiety medication to take while breastfeeding?

Safe medication in breastfeeding
They include, in no particular order: SSRI antidepressants e.g. sertraline, citalopram, fluoxetine, paroxetine all have anti- anxiety activity. They take 4 to 6 weeks to exert full benefit. Tri-cyclic antidepressants e.g. amitriptyline, imipramine.

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 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.