How long does benzos stay in breast milk?

Understanding Benzodiazepines and Breastfeeding
Benzodiazepines, commonly referred to as “benzos,” are a class of medications often prescribed for anxiety, insomnia, and other mental health conditions. For nursing mothers, the safety of these medications during breastfeeding is a significant concern, particularly regarding how long they remain in breast milk and their potential effects on infants.
Duration in Breast Milk
Research indicates that benzodiazepines do transfer into breast milk, but the concentrations are generally low. The specific duration that these substances remain detectable in breast milk can vary based on the type of benzodiazepine used. For instance, alprazolam, a commonly prescribed benzodiazepine, is noted to have possible effects on infants, including sedation, which raises concerns about its use during breastfeeding, especially with neonates or premature infants.
On the other hand, lorazepam is highlighted for its relatively low levels in breast milk and a shorter half-life compared to other benzodiazepines. Studies suggest that lorazepam can be safely administered to breastfeeding mothers without causing adverse effects in breastfed infants when taken at usual maternal dosages.
Implications for Nursing Mothers
The transfer of benzodiazepines into breast milk is a critical factor for nursing mothers who may require these medications. While the amounts transferred are typically small and compatible with breastfeeding, the potential for sedation in infants remains a concern. This is particularly relevant for mothers dealing with postpartum anxiety or depression, conditions that may necessitate the use of benzodiazepines.
Healthcare providers often recommend that nursing mothers discuss their medication options thoroughly. In some cases, alternatives such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may be preferred for managing anxiety symptoms during the postpartum period.
Conclusion
In summary, while benzodiazepines do appear in breast milk, the extent and duration depend on the specific medication. Lorazepam is generally considered safer for breastfeeding mothers due to its low levels in milk and minimal adverse effects on infants. However, mothers should always consult with their healthcare providers to weigh the benefits and risks of using these medications while nursing.

How long does lorazepam stay in breastmilk?

Lorazepam is 85% bound to plasma proteins and is 90% bio-available. Half-life is reported as 10 to 20 hours. A post-partum study (Summerfield and Nielsen 1985) found clinically insignificant amounts of lorazepam in breastmilk even at a dose of 2.5 mg twice daily for the first 5 days post-natally.

Do benzodiazepines go into breast milk?

Yes. If you take benzodiazepines, your milk will have benzodiazepines in it. The amount that is in your milk depends on how much you take, which benzodiazepines you take and the amount of time that has passed since taking it.

Does anxiety meds pass through breast milk?

All medications taken by the mother are secreted into the breast milk, and there is no evidence to suggest that certain antidepressants pose significant risks to the nursing infant.

How long do benzos stay in breastmilk?

There isn’t a clear amount of time for how long you should pump and discard your milk if you’re taking benzodiazepines. Pump and discard your milk for at least 2-4 hours after taking benzodiazepines. It’s probably better to wait longer.

Do benzodiazepines pass through breast milk?

Yes. If you take benzodiazepines, your milk will have benzodiazepines in it. The amount that is in your milk depends on how much you take, which benzodiazepines you take and the amount of time that has passed since taking it.

How long should I wait to breastfeed after taking Klonopin?

Klonopin and breastfeeding
Klonopin treatment is not recommended while breastfeeding. The drug is known to pass into breast milk. Klonopin may cause harmful effects in children who are breastfed.

How long do I need to wait to breastfeed after taking Xanax?

Summary of Use during Lactation
If alprazolam is used long term, monitor the infant for sedation, poor feeding and poor weight gain. After a single dose of alprazolam, there is usually no need to wait to resume breastfeeding.

Is it bad to breastfeed after getting angry?

Stress May Affect Cortisol Levels
Studies have shown that breast milk from distressed mothers may contain higher levels of cortisol. As your stress level rises, the level of cortisol in your breast milk also increases. When your baby nurses, they may consume some of this extra cortisol.

How soon after narcotics can you breastfeed?

A breastfeeding plan
If you do use drugs such as amphetamines or heroin as a one-off, you will need to express your breast milk in the 24 hours afterwards and throw it away before you breastfeed again. After using drugs, it is not safe for you to care for or breastfeed your baby.

Can you breastfeed with Benzos?

Can benzos enter human milk? It may be safe to nurse your baby while you’re taking oxazepam, clobazam or lorazepam that comes from a pharmacy. While you’re taking other types of benzodiazepines, doses that make you high, or pills that aren’t from a pharmacy, it isn’t safe to chest/breastfeed.