How long does sertraline stay in breast milk?

Understanding Sertraline and Its Presence in Breast Milk
Sertraline, a commonly prescribed selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), is often used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. For breastfeeding mothers, a critical concern is how long this medication remains in breast milk and its potential effects on infants.
Duration and Concentration in Breast Milk
Research indicates that sertraline does pass into breast milk, with peak concentrations typically occurring 8 to 9 hours after a dose. This timing is crucial for breastfeeding mothers to consider when planning feedings. The concentration of sertraline in breast milk correlates with the serum concentration in the mother, rather than the daily dosage of the medication.
In a study involving multiple milk samples from breastfeeding mothers, it was found that the levels of sertraline in breast milk were highest shortly after the mother took her medication. This suggests that if a mother takes her medication right before breastfeeding, the infant may be exposed to higher levels of the drug.
Safety and Recommendations
Despite the presence of sertraline in breast milk, it is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. The American Academy of Pediatrics classifies sertraline as a medication that is compatible with breastfeeding, indicating that the benefits of treating maternal depression often outweigh the potential risks to the infant.
However, it is essential for mothers to consult with their healthcare providers to tailor their medication regimen appropriately. Monitoring the infant for any adverse effects, especially during the initial weeks of breastfeeding, is advisable. Some studies have noted rare side effects, such as decreased milk supply or hyperprolactinemia, but these are not unique to sertraline and can occur with other SSRIs as well.
Conclusion
In summary, sertraline remains in breast milk for a significant period, with peak levels occurring about 8 to 9 hours post-dose. While it is generally deemed safe for breastfeeding, mothers should engage in open discussions with their healthcare providers to ensure both their health and the well-being of their infants are prioritized.

How does sertraline affect breastfed babies?

Sertraline and breastfeeding
If your doctor or health visitor says your baby is healthy, it is OK to take sertraline while breastfeeding. It is one of the preferred antidepressants to take when breastfeeding and has been used by many breastfeeding mothers without any problems.

What are the side effects of Zoloft in newborns?

About 30 percent of babies whose mothers take SSRIs will experience neonatal adaptation syndrome, which can cause increased jitteriness, irritability and respiratory distress (difficulty breathing), among other symptoms.

How much weight do you gain on sertraline?

Zoloft is associated with more weight gain when compared with Prozac. However, it’s not much of a difference. One two-year study by the Journal of Clinical Medicine found that sertraline (generic Zoloft) users gained an average of 5.9 lbs compared to fluoxetine (generic Prozac) users who gained 4.6 lbs.

How long does Zoloft stay in your breastmilk?

Yes, Zoloft can pass into breast milk. While more research is needed in this area, current research indicates that only a very small amount passes through. (Peak levels in the hindmilk were typically found 8 to 9 hours after a dose.)

Can you donate breastmilk while taking Zoloft?

Some medications – including multivitamins, iron, human insulin, thyroid replacement hormones, Zoloft, Ibuprofen, Tylenol, nasal sprays, asthma inhalers, topical treatments, eye drops, birth control products, among others – will not result in a deferral. Certain herbal supplements are exclusions.

What is the safest antidepressant while breastfeeding?

Sertraline and paroxetine (among SSRIs) and nortriptyline and imipramine (among TCAs) are the most evidence-based medications for use during breastfeeding because of similar findings across multiple laboratories, usually undetectable infant serum levels and no reports of short term adverse events.

What is the hardest antidepressant to come off of?

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are the most likely antidepressants to cause withdrawal symptoms. Listed according to their risk of causing withdrawal, they include: With a high risk of withdrawal: Desvenlafaxine (Khedezla, Pristiq)

How long does it take for sertraline to completely leave your system?

This means that it takes 24 to 32 hours for the active ingredient in the medication to reduce by half in your body. In other words, if you were to take a single dose of sertraline, the medication would likely be completely out of your system 48 to 64 hours after you take it.

What is the washout period for sertraline?

After stopping sertraline, wait 7 to 13 days before starting moclobemide. The manufacturer advises a 7 day washout period but 13 days may be considered to account for the long half-life of sertraline’s active metabolite.

Can sertraline cause birth defects?

There are reports of more than 25,000 pregnancies exposed to sertraline. Some studies have suggested an increased chance for heart defects or other birth defects. However, most studies have not found an increased chance of birth defects when sertraline is used in pregnancy.