Is famotidine safe while breastfeeding?

Is Famotidine Safe While Breastfeeding?
When it comes to the safety of medications during breastfeeding, famotidine, a commonly used medication for treating conditions like heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), has been the subject of scrutiny. The good news for nursing mothers is that current research indicates that famotidine is generally considered safe to use while breastfeeding.
Low Levels in Breast Milk
Famotidine does pass into breast milk, but the amounts are relatively low. Studies have shown that the dosages found in breast milk are significantly lower than those typically administered to newborns. This means that the exposure for breastfed infants is minimal and unlikely to cause any adverse effects. In fact, famotidine is sometimes prescribed to newborns at higher dosages than what is found in the milk of breastfeeding mothers .
No Expected Adverse Effects
Health professionals and resources such as the LactMed database and MotherToBaby have consistently reported that famotidine is not expected to cause problems in breastfed infants. The consensus is that no special precautions are necessary for mothers taking this medication while nursing . This reassurance is crucial for mothers who may be concerned about the potential impact of medications on their infants.
Conclusion
In summary, famotidine is deemed safe for breastfeeding mothers. The low levels that transfer into breast milk, combined with the fact that infants can tolerate higher doses, suggest that mothers can use this medication without significant concern for their babies’ health. As always, it is advisable for nursing mothers to consult with their healthcare providers before starting any new medication to ensure it aligns with their specific health needs and circumstances.

What medications are not compatible with breastfeeding?

Common medicines that are not recommended when you’re breastfeeding include:

• codeine phosphate.
• decongestants that come as tablets, liquids or powders that you swallow.
• some nasal decongestants that come as nose sprays or drops – check with a GP or pharmacist before using them.
• aspirin for pain relief.

What makes reflux worse in breastfed babies?

Babies who are not latching effectively for breastfeeds may have reflux. This can be because they are taking in air when feeding or when crying. Sometimes, babies just need to be in a slightly different position to latch more deeply. Sometimes it can be a result of physiological issues such as a tongue tie.

Can breastfeeding moms take famotidine?

Any H2-receptor antagonist can be used during breastfeeding. Famotidine or nizatidine are preferred as smaller amounts pass into breast milk. Cimetidine is least preferred due to higher levels in breast milk and the potential for drug interactions.

Is famotidine safe for my baby?

Conclusions: Histamine-2 receptor antagonists may cause agitation and headache in infants. A possibly efficacious famotidine dose for infants is 0.5 mg/kg (frequency adjusted for age). As 1.0 mg/kg may be more efficacious in some, the dosage may require individualization based on response.

What is famotidine used for postpartum?

Famotidine is a medication used to treat acid reflux (sometimes called heartburn) or peptic ulcer disease. Famotidine reduces the amount of stomach acid that your body makes.

Which antacid is safe during breastfeeding?

Medicines to treat gas and bloating, such as Gas-X, Maalox, Mylanta, and others, are safe to take while breastfeeding. They contain simethicone, which is sometimes given to infants. It is also not absorbed into the mother’s system, so wouldn’t be transmitted in breast milk.

Who should avoid famotidine?

Kidney disease. Liver disease. Trouble swallowing. An unusual or allergic reaction to famotidine, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives.

Do you have to wean baby off famotidine?

Is it safe to stop the medication? If your baby is currently on one of these medications for reflux but your baby is physically healthy and growing well, then you can try to stop the medication. The best way to stop these medications is to do it gradually. This gives your baby’s stomach time to re-‐adjust.

What can I take for acid reflux while breastfeeding?

If these measures are insufficient, a histamine H2-blocker or PPI can be used. Famotidine appears to be the best H2-blocker for use during lactation. Information on PPIs during breastfeeding is limited to omeprazole and pantoprazole, so they are preferred.

How I cured my baby’s reflux breastfeeding?

Helping your baby with reflux

1. get advice about your baby’s breastfeeding position.
2. hold your baby upright during feeding and for as long as possible after feeding.
3. burp (or wind) your baby regularly during feeds.
4. make sure your baby sleeps flat on their back (they should not sleep on their side or front)