How much sertraline passes through breast milk?

Understanding Sertraline Transfer Through Breast Milk
Sertraline, a commonly prescribed selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat depression and anxiety, has been a topic of interest regarding its safety during breastfeeding. A significant concern for nursing mothers is how much of the medication passes into breast milk and the potential effects on their infants.
Pharmacokinetics of Sertraline in Breast Milk
Research indicates that sertraline does pass into breast milk, but in very small amounts. Studies have shown that peak levels of sertraline in breast milk occur approximately five to nine hours after the mother takes the medication. This timing aligns with the pharmacokinetic profile of sertraline, where peak serum levels in the mother are typically observed between six to eight hours post-dose.
In a study involving 26 breastfeeding women who were taking an average of 124 mg of sertraline daily, extensive sampling over a 24-hour period revealed that while sertraline is present in breast milk, the concentrations are low enough that they are unlikely to cause significant effects in infants.
Infant Exposure and Safety
The amount of sertraline that an infant might be exposed to through breast milk is calculated based on the average daily intake of breast milk. For a solely breastfed two-month-old infant, the estimated exposure is quite minimal, often described as negligible. Most reports indicate that there are no significant adverse effects observed in infants who are exposed to sertraline through breastfeeding. In fact, some studies suggest that infants who were also exposed to sertraline during the third trimester of pregnancy may experience a lower chance of withdrawal symptoms if they are breastfed.
Clinical Recommendations
Given the low levels of sertraline in breast milk and the lack of reported serious side effects in breastfed infants, many healthcare providers consider it safe for mothers to continue breastfeeding while on sertraline. The benefits of breastfeeding, which include nutritional and emotional support for the infant, are often weighed against the minimal risks associated with the medication.
In conclusion, while sertraline does transfer into breast milk, the amounts are small and generally considered safe for breastfeeding infants. Mothers should always consult with their healthcare providers to make informed decisions regarding their treatment and breastfeeding practices.

How much sertraline goes into breastmilk?

Significant published evidence shows sertraline passes into breast milk in very small amounts (0.2–2.4% of the weight-adjusted maternal dose) with maternal doses up to 200mg daily. In many cases, the amount in breast milk was negligible. One study found no correlation between dose and milk levels.

Does Zoloft have long term effects on breastfeeding?

At present, there is little evidence that exposure to antidepressants through breast milk has any serious adverse effects in infants; however, long-term neurodevelopmental effects have not been adequately studied.

How long does sertraline stay in 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.

Does Zoloft show up in breast milk?

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.)

Will sertraline affect my baby?

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.

How quickly is sertraline absorbed?

Sertraline is slowly absorbed, with peak concentrations (Cmax) occurring at 4–10 hours following ingestion, and has a half-life of 24–32 hours in children, adolescents and adults [11–20]. The therapeutic concentration range for sertraline has not been well established, but has been proposed to be 10–150 ng/mL [21].

Can you breastfeed on sertraline?

Sertraline and breastfeeding
It is one of the preferred antidepressants to take when breastfeeding and has been used by many breastfeeding mothers without any problems. Sertraline passes into breast milk in very small amounts and has been linked with side effects in very few breastfed babies.

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.

Can breastfed babies withdraw from sertraline?

Breastfeeding while taking sertraline:
Most reports show no problems for babies who are exposed to sertraline through breast milk. Babies who were also exposed to sertraline in the third trimester of pregnancy may have a lower chance of withdrawal after birth if they are breastfed.

Can sertraline affect a baby?

Sertraline use during the first trimester of pregnancy was associated with an increased risk of atrial/ventricular defects and craniosynostosis above and beyond the effect of maternal depression. Nonsertraline SSRIs were associated with an increased risk of craniosynostosis and musculoskeletal defects.