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Is Excedrin ok to take while breastfeeding?

Understanding Excedrin and BreastfeedingExcedrin and Breastfeeding
The short answer: Excedrin, a common over-the-counter pain medication, is generally considered safe to take in moderation while breastfeeding, but it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional first.
The details:
Excedrin is a combination medication that contains acetaminophen, aspirin, and caffeine. While the individual components have generally been deemed safe for breastfeeding mothers when used as directed, there are some important considerations:
Acetaminophen: Studies show that acetaminophen, one of the active ingredients in Excedrin, is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers when used as directed.
Aspirin: The aspirin component of Excedrin is more concerning, as it can potentially affect the infant. It’s recommended to avoid taking Excedrin Migraine, which contains aspirin, while breastfeeding.
Caffeine: Caffeine from Excedrin can pass into breast milk and potentially affect the breastfed infant, especially in high doses. Moderation is key.
Overall, the consensus seems to be that regular Excedrin (without aspirin) is likely safe in moderation for breastfeeding mothers, but it’s still best to consult with a healthcare provider before taking it.,,,
Some healthcare providers may recommend trying safer alternatives, such as acetaminophen alone, or seeking non-medication pain relief options.
In summary, Excedrin may be okay to take while breastfeeding, but it’s important to use caution, monitor for any effects on the baby, and discuss it with a doctor or lactation consultant first.

Who should not take Excedrin Extra Strength?

Excedrin Extra Strength Contraindications
NSAID allergy. Varicella, vaccinia in children and teenagers. 3rd trimester of pregnancy.

Why can’t you take ibuprofen while breastfeeding?

You can take ibuprofen or use it on your skin while breastfeeding. It is one of the painkillers that’s usually recommended if you’re breastfeeding. Only tiny amounts get into breast milk and it’s unlikely to cause side effects in your baby. Many people have used it while breastfeeding without any problems.

How do you treat a lactating migraine?

The preferred method of treatment for migraine is non-pharmacological therapy, followed by prenatal counseling. Sumatriptan and acetaminophen are both effective treatments for transient migraine attacks that occur during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

What pain reliever is safe for breastfeeding?

You can take paracetamol and ibuprofen together during breastfeeding if needed, up to their maximum daily doses. If your baby needs to take ibuprofen suspension (e.g. Nurofen for Children®) whilst you are taking ibuprofen, they can do so at their own full and normal dose.

What’s the difference between Excedrin and Excedrin Migraine?

Excedrin Migraine is meant to relieve pain associated with headaches and migraines. Excedrin Extra Strength is more versatile and is generally used to relieve minor aches and pains related to various causes. For this reason, their labeling and dosing recommendations are different.

Can I take Excedrin when breastfeeding?

Headache Medications to Avoid When Breastfeeding
Aspirin: Don’t take aspirin or aspirin-containing products when you’re breastfeeding because the drug can cause adverse effects in your baby. Remember that there’s often aspirin in over-the-counter headache medications like Excedrin and Excedrin Migraine.

Which headache medicine is safe during breastfeeding?

What medications are safe to take while breastfeeding?

  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol, others)
  • Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others)
  • Naproxen sodium (Aleve, Anaprox DS, others) — short-term use only.

What happens if you accidentally take Excedrin Migraine while pregnant?

Taking Excedrin Migraine or other medications containing aspirin in your third trimester increases the risk of a rare congenital heart defect called premature closure of the ductus arteriosus, and it increases the risk of excessive blood loss during delivery, putting both you and your baby at risk.

Can I take Excedrin Extra Strength while pregnant?

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or if you plan to become pregnant. This medication may harm an unborn baby and cause problems with normal labor/delivery. It is not recommended for use in pregnancy from 20 weeks until delivery.

What can I take for a headache while breastfeeding?

Women with migraine may be concerned about breastfeeding due to fears of exposing the baby to medication. However, many medications can be safely taken during breastfeeding, including acetaminophen (Tylenol), anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen (Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve), and sumatriptan (Imitrex).

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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