Home » Blog » Breastfeeding » Is a zpack safe while breastfeeding?

Is a zpack safe while breastfeeding?

Understanding the Safety of Z-Pak (Azithromycin) While Breastfeeding
When it comes to the use of medications during breastfeeding, safety is a primary concern for nursing mothers. One commonly prescribed antibiotic is Azithromycin, often referred to by its brand name, Z-Pak. This medication is frequently used to treat various bacterial infections, including respiratory infections and strep throat. However, many mothers wonder about its safety for both themselves and their infants while breastfeeding.
Azithromycin and Breast Milk
Azithromycin is known to be excreted into human breast milk, but the levels are generally low. According to research, the concentration of Azithromycin in breast milk is significantly lower than the doses typically given to infants for treatment of infections. This suggests that the risk of adverse effects in breastfed infants is minimal. In fact, studies indicate that Azithromycin does not cause serious side effects in breastfeeding mothers or their babies.
Recommendations from Health Experts
Health professionals often weigh the benefits of treating an infection against the potential risks of medication. The general consensus is that Azithromycin can be safely used during breastfeeding, especially when prescribed by a healthcare provider who has assessed the necessity of the treatment. The Mayo Clinic emphasizes that the decision to use any medication should involve a discussion between the mother and her doctor, considering both the risks and benefits.
Monitoring for Side Effects
While the risk is low, it is still advisable for breastfeeding mothers to monitor their infants for any potential side effects. Some possible effects could include gastrointestinal disturbances, such as vomiting or diarrhea, which may arise from changes in the infant’s gut flora. However, these occurrences are not common and are generally manageable.
Conclusion
In summary, Azithromycin, or Z-Pak, is considered safe for use during breastfeeding, with low levels found in breast milk and minimal risk of adverse effects in infants. As always, it is crucial for nursing mothers to consult with their healthcare providers to ensure that any medication taken is appropriate for their specific situation. This collaborative approach helps ensure the health and safety of both mother and child while effectively managing infections.

Which drug is usually avoided with breastfeeding?

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

Who should not take azithromycin?

liver or kidney problems. heart problems, including irregular heartbeats (arrhythmia) ever had diarrhoea when you have taken antibiotics before. myasthenia gravis – azithromycin can make the symptoms of this muscle-weakening condition worse.

Which antibiotics are not used in breastfeeding?

Antibiotics to Avoid While Breastfeeding
Clindamycin: Clindamycin can sometimes cause mild gastrointestinal (GI) effects like diarrhea, vomiting, diaper rash, or thrush in a breastfed baby2. Co-trimoxazole: Rarely prescribed to breastfeeding parents of newborns because of an association with increased jaundice3.

Is azithromycin safe for newborns?

Exposure to oral azithromycin in the newborn period increases the risk of developing pyloric stenosis. Although this risk is highest if the exposure occurred in the first 2 weeks of life, the risk extends out to 6 weeks of age.

What can I take for a sinus infection while breastfeeding?

Corticosteroid nasal sprays containing beclomethasone and budesonide are considered safe to use during breastfeeding. Decongestant nasal sprays containing oxymetazoline, xylometazoline or tramazoline may be used if corticosteroid and antihistamine nasal sprays have not relieved the symptoms.

Which antibiotics are safe for breastfeeding?

The following antibiotics are all safe to take whilst breastfeeding;

  • Amoxycillin, Amoxil ®,
  • Azithromycin, Zithromax®,
  • Cefaclor, Distaclor®,
  • Cefuroxime, Zinnat®
  • Cephalexin, Cefalexin, Keflex®,
  • Cephradine, Velosef®,
  • Clarithromycin, Klaricid®,
  • Co-amoxiclav, Augmentin®,

Can breastfeeding moms take Z pack?

Azithromycin and breastfeeding
If your doctor or health visitor says that your baby is healthy, it’s OK to take azithromycin while breastfeeding. Azithromycin passes into breast milk in small amounts. It has not been known to cause any side effects in breastfed babies.

Why is azithromycin no longer recommended?

However, in recent years, the cardiac safety of azithromycin has been questioned, primarily because of increasing concerns regarding the potential for QT interval prolongation, torsades de pointes, and cardiovascular death.

Can antibiotics make your milk supply drop?

Occasionally women are given medications that can interfere with their milk supply. A common clinical scenario is a woman who has an overwhelming allergic reaction to something, such as an antibiotic given to her for mastitis.

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.
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.

Leave a Comment