Is Buspar okay while breastfeeding?

Understanding Buspar and Breastfeeding
Buspar, or buspirone, is a medication commonly prescribed for anxiety. However, its use during breastfeeding raises important questions regarding safety for nursing infants. As many new mothers grapple with anxiety, understanding the implications of taking Buspar while breastfeeding is crucial.
Safety Concerns
Research indicates that small amounts of Buspar can pass into breast milk, which means that nursing infants may be exposed to the medication. While some studies have shown that the levels of buspirone in breast milk are low, the long-term effects on infants remain largely unknown . This uncertainty leads many healthcare professionals to recommend caution. The general consensus is that Buspar should not be used during breastfeeding unless it is clinically necessary.
Clinical Insights
Some anecdotal evidence suggests that mothers have been prescribed Buspar while breastfeeding and have reported positive outcomes. For instance, one mother shared that her doctor approved the use of Buspar, which significantly alleviated her debilitating nighttime anxiety. However, it is essential to note that individual experiences can vary widely, and what works for one person may not be suitable for another.
Recommendations from Experts
Experts advise that while maternal doses of up to 45 mg daily produce low levels of buspirone in milk, the lack of comprehensive data on the long-term effects of the drug during breastfeeding means that alternative medications may be preferred, especially for mothers nursing newborns or preterm infants. The potential for increased serum prolactin levels, which can affect milk production, is another factor to consider.
Conclusion
In summary, while some mothers have found relief from anxiety through Buspar during breastfeeding, the potential risks to infants cannot be overlooked. It is crucial for nursing mothers to consult with their healthcare providers to weigh the benefits and risks of using Buspar. Each case should be evaluated individually, considering the mother’s mental health needs and the well-being of the infant.

What anxiety medication is safe while breastfeeding?

Safe medication in breastfeeding
They include, in no particular order: SSRI antidepressants e.g. sertraline, citalopram, fluoxetine, paroxetine all have anti- anxiety activity. They take 4 to 6 weeks to exert full benefit. Tri-cyclic antidepressants e.g. amitriptyline, imipramine.

How long does a BuSpar stay in your system?

Typically, buspirone will be flushed from your system within 15 hours, as it has a short half-life. If you are stopping the use of buspirone after taking it daily, you should taper the medication with the help of your doctor, as you could experience symptoms of withdrawal.

Can BuSpar affect a newborn?

There are reports that looked at effects of buspirone in breastfed infants. One report found no short-term side effects in an 11-week-old baby whose mother was taking 2 medications including 10 mg/day of buspirone. Another report described seizure-like activity in a 3-week-old infant.

Can I take buspirone while breastfeeding?

Limited information indicates that maternal doses of buspirone up to 45 mg daily produce low levels in milk. Because no information is available on the long-term use of buspirone during breastfeeding, an alternate drug may be preferred, especially while nursing a newborn or preterm infant.

What is a natural anti anxiety while breastfeeding?

Studies show that passion flower and oat are as effective as prescription anxiety medications. Plus, oats can help boost the metabolism of fats and increase milk production for nursing mamas. Melissa (Lemon Balm). Melissa, a member of the mint family, helps ease anxiety and depression and is an effective antiviral.

Is it safe to take BuSpar while pregnant?

It is not known if buspirone can increase the chance of birth defects above the background risk. Information from a pregnancy registry found no birth defects among 72 infants exposed to buspirone during pregnancy.

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

Is it safe to take Buspar while pregnant?

It is not known if buspirone can increase the chance of birth defects above the background risk. Information from a pregnancy registry found no birth defects among 72 infants exposed to buspirone during pregnancy.

Is it safe to take bupropion while breastfeeding?

Bupropion gets into breast milk in small amounts. Taking bupropion while breastfeeding is not expected to cause harmful effects for most breastfed infants. There are two case reports of seizures in 6-month-old babies exposed to bupropion through breast milk. The seizures stopped when bupropion was no longer used.

Who should not take buspirone?

Kidney or liver disease. An unusual or allergic reaction to buspirone, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives. Pregnant or trying to get pregnant. Breast-feeding.