Is Gaviscon safe for lactating mothers?

Is Gaviscon Safe for Lactating Mothers?
When it comes to managing heartburn and acid reflux, many breastfeeding mothers may wonder about the safety of using over-the-counter medications like Gaviscon. This antacid, which contains alginic acid and sodium bicarbonate, is commonly used to alleviate symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Understanding its safety profile during lactation is crucial for new mothers seeking relief without compromising their baby’s health.
Safety Profile of Gaviscon During Breastfeeding
According to available information, Gaviscon is generally considered safe for use by lactating mothers. The active ingredients in Gaviscon, particularly alginic acid, are not absorbed into the bloodstream in significant amounts, which means they are unlikely to pass into breast milk in any harmful concentrations. This characteristic makes Gaviscon a preferred choice for many mothers dealing with the discomfort of acid reflux while nursing.
Moreover, health guidelines suggest that the use of Gaviscon does not pose a risk to breastfeeding infants. The Breastfeeding Network emphasizes that medications like Gaviscon, which are not systemically absorbed, are typically safe for breastfeeding mothers. This reassurance is particularly important for mothers who may be concerned about the potential effects of medications on their infants.
Considerations and Recommendations
While Gaviscon is deemed safe, it is always advisable for breastfeeding mothers to consult with healthcare professionals before starting any new medication. Individual health conditions and the presence of other medications can influence safety and efficacy. Additionally, some mothers may experience side effects from Gaviscon, such as constipation or diarrhea, which could affect their overall well-being during the postpartum period.
In cases where a mother is unsure about the appropriateness of Gaviscon for her specific situation, seeking advice from a doctor or a lactation consultant can provide personalized guidance. They can help assess the mother’s health needs and suggest alternative treatments if necessary.
Conclusion
In summary, Gaviscon is considered safe for lactating mothers, providing a viable option for managing heartburn and acid reflux without significant risk to breastfeeding infants. However, as with any medication, it is prudent for mothers to engage in discussions with healthcare providers to ensure the best outcomes for both themselves and their babies.

What medicine to avoid while 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 not to eat when breastfeeding a baby with acid reflux?

Foods to avoid when breastfeeding a baby with acid reflux

Avoid or Consumer in Moderation	Guidance
High-caffeine beverages (coffee, energy drinks)	Limit caffeine intake, opt for decaffeinated options or herbal tea
Alcoholic beverages	Avoid alcohol while breastfeeding
Very spicy dishes	Mildly seasoned or spiced foods

What can I take for reflux while breastfeeding?

Any PPI can be used during breastfeeding, however omeprazole and pantoprazole are the PPIs of choice as they are excreted into breast milk in very small amounts and have evidence to support their use. Any PPI that passes into breast milk is likely to be degraded in the infant’s gastrointestinal tract.

What can I take for an upset stomach while breastfeeding?

Heartburn / Indigestion

• Mylanta.
• TUMS.
• Pepcid.
• Maalox.
• Gavison.
• Pepto Bismol.

What antacids can breastfeeding moms take?

Medications that are considered safe for breastfeeding
Antacids (Maalox, Mylanta, Tums) Anticoagulants (blood thinners such as Lovenox, Fragmin, Innohep, Heparin) Antihistamines (such as Claritin; Benadryl is also safe but may cause infant drowsiness)

Can breastfed babies have Gaviscon?

Gaviscon® Infant is supplied as ‘dual sachets’, and each half of the dual sachet is one ‘dose’. For children up to 2 years old: Neonate (body weight up to 4.5 kg) — 1 sachet as required, to be mixed with feeds (or water, for breastfed infants); maximum 6 sachets per day.

Which Gaviscon is safe in pregnancy?

Gaviscon Advance is suitable for you if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. It starts working in minutes and provides long-lasting relief (up to 4 hours). It’s lower in sodium than our other formulations and it has an extra-strength formula designed to help you get on with your day.

Can a breastfeeding mother take Gaviscon?

Pregnancy and breastfeeding
You can take Gaviscon while you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. However, if you have indigestion, it’s best to try and treat it without taking a medicine. For example, it can help to: eat smaller meals more often.

What medication is used for reflux in breastfed babies?

Gaviscon is a medication that we sometimes use for reflux. It works as a thickener to make milk less likely to reflux back up your baby’s food pipe. It can be difficult to give to breastfed babies and it sometimes causes them constipation. Omeprazole is another medication which we sometimes use.

What is better, Tums or Gaviscon?

The major findings of the study were that Gaviscon was associated with significantly less distal esophageal acid exposure than antacid and that this was related to a greater pH of the refluxate rather than to a decrease in the number of reflux events recorded in each study condition.