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How long does Klonopin stay in your breast milk?

Understanding Klonopin and Its Presence in Breast Milk
Klonopin, known generically as clonazepam, is a medication commonly prescribed for anxiety disorders, panic disorders, and certain types of seizures. For breastfeeding mothers, concerns often arise regarding the safety of taking Klonopin and its potential effects on their infants through breast milk.
Duration in Breast Milk
Research indicates that Klonopin can remain in breast milk for an extended period. Specifically, due to its long half-life, Klonopin is likely to be present in breast milk for 1 to 2 weeks after a dose is taken. This extended presence is significant for nursing mothers who may be concerned about the medication’s impact on their breastfeeding infants.
Infant Exposure Levels
The concentration of clonazepam in breast milk can vary. For instance, one study noted that a woman taking oral clonazepam had a breast milk concentration of approximately 4.53 mcg/L. This level can lead to varying degrees of exposure for the infant, depending on the frequency and dosage of the mother’s medication.
Considerations for Breastfeeding Mothers
While Klonopin can be effective for managing anxiety and other conditions, breastfeeding mothers should consult healthcare providers to weigh the benefits against potential risks. The decision to continue breastfeeding while on Klonopin should involve careful consideration of the mother’s mental health needs and the possible effects on the infant.
Healthcare professionals often recommend monitoring the infant for any adverse effects if the mother continues to take Klonopin while breastfeeding. This includes being vigilant for signs of sedation or developmental issues in the child.
In summary, Klonopin can remain in breast milk for 1 to 2 weeks, and its levels can vary based on individual circumstances. Mothers should engage in open discussions with their healthcare providers to ensure the best outcomes for both themselves and their infants.

How long does benzos stay in breast milk?

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.

What is the safest benzodiazepine while breastfeeding?

Lorazepam and oxazepam are the preferred benzodiazepines during breast feeding, if clinically appropriate. Recommendations apply to full term, healthy infants.

How long does Klonopin stay in your system?

Based on the estimate of clonazepam’s 30- to 40-hour half-life, Klonopin is likely to stay in your system for approximately six to nine days after your final dose. Both Klonopin and its metabolite 7-amino-clonazepam are detectable in the urine for about four days after the last use.

How long does it take for drugs to leave your breastmilk?

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.

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

Breastfeeding while taking alprazolam:
If you suspect the baby has any symptoms (being too sleepy, poor feeding, and poor weight gain), contact the child’s healthcare provider. After a single dose of alprazolam, there is usually no need to wait to breastfeed.

When can I breastfeed after Klonopin?

Klonopin and breastfeeding
Klonopin treatment is not recommended while breastfeeding. The drug is known to pass into breast milk.

Do anxiety meds pass through breast milk?

From the available data, it appears that all medications, including antidepressants, antipsychotic agents, mood stabilizers, and benzodiazepines, are secreted into the breast milk. However, concentrations of these agents in breast milk vary considerably.

Do I have to pump and dump after taking medication?

If it is a short-term medication, pumping and dumping will keep your milk supply up until you can resume nursing. If you are on incompatible medications for the long term, discuss options with your provider. While you may need to wean, donor breast milk is an option for your baby or you may choose to use formula.

What drugs can pass through a mother’s breast milk and harm a nursing baby?

Drugs

  • If you use amphetamines, ecstasy, cocaine or heroin, you should not breastfeed for 24 hours after use.
  • If you smoke cannabis or tobacco you should breastfeed your baby before you smoke, and smoke outside and away from the baby. Do not have your baby in the same room as the smoke.

What drugs don’t go into breast milk?

Table. Examples of drugs contraindicated in breastfeeding.

Drug Comment
Iodine High doses (>150 micrograms daily) lead to risk of infant hypothyroidism
Lithium Breastfeeding only feasible with rigorous monitoring
Radiopharmaceuticals Contact obstetric information service
Retinoids (oral) Potential for serious adverse effects
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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