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Is ibuprofen 800 safe while breastfeeding?

Is Ibuprofen 800 mg Safe While Breastfeeding?
When it comes to managing pain or inflammation during breastfeeding, many mothers may wonder about the safety of medications like ibuprofen, particularly in higher doses such as 800 mg. The good news is that ibuprofen is generally considered safe for nursing mothers.
Low Levels in Breast Milk
Research indicates that ibuprofen has extremely low levels in breast milk. This is significant because it means that the amount of the drug that a breastfeeding infant would be exposed to is minimal. The short half-life of ibuprofen further supports its safety; it is quickly metabolized and eliminated from the body, reducing the likelihood of any adverse effects on the nursing infant.
Preferred Analgesic Choice
Due to its safety profile, ibuprofen is often recommended as a preferred analgesic or anti-inflammatory agent for nursing mothers. It has been shown to be safe for infants, even in doses that are much higher than what is excreted in breast milk. This makes it a reliable option for mothers who need pain relief without compromising their baby’s health.
Dosage Considerations
While ibuprofen is safe, it is essential for breastfeeding mothers to adhere to recommended dosages. The typical over-the-counter dosage for adults is 200-400 mg every 4 to 6 hours, not exceeding 1200 mg per day without medical advice. In some cases, healthcare providers may prescribe higher doses, such as 800 mg, for specific conditions. However, mothers should always consult with their healthcare provider before taking higher doses to ensure it is appropriate for their situation.
Alternatives and Precautions
While ibuprofen is safe, some medications are not recommended during breastfeeding. For instance, aspirin and certain other pain relievers should be avoided due to potential risks to the infant. If a mother experiences any unusual symptoms in her baby, such as feeding difficulties, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional promptly.
In summary, ibuprofen 800 mg is generally safe for breastfeeding mothers, provided it is taken as directed and under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Its low levels in breast milk and rapid clearance from the body make it a suitable choice for managing pain while nursing.

Is 800 mg ibuprofen safe?

The maximum amount of ibuprofen for adults is 800 milligrams per dose or 3200 milligrams per day. Keep these numbers in mind because a large ibuprofen overdose can lead to potentially life-threatening complications.

Can I take Tylenol 800 while breastfeeding?

Your baby receives very little of the medication in your milk, and very few meds will affect your milk supply. Tylenol and ibuprofen are fine to take for pain relief and fever, for example. For allergies and colds, most antihistamines are okay, but some decongestants can decrease your milk supply.

How much ibuprofen can I take postpartum?

IBUPROFEN 200 mg (ADVIL™, MOTRIN™, etc.): Take 3 tablets that are 200 mg each (600 mg total) every 6 hours as needed for mild to moderate discomfort. Do not exceed 12 tablets (2400 mg) in 24 hours.

What is the strongest painkiller I can take while breastfeeding?

Morphine (Oramorph®, Actimorph®) is the strong opioid of choice while breastfeeding. It can be used with caution at the lowest effective dose, for the shortest possible duration. Oral morphine is frequently given to mothers after a caesarean section. You can use it with caution when breastfeeding.

Is ibuprofen better than Tylenol while breastfeeding?

If you’re breastfeeding, you can take acetaminophen or ibuprofen up to the daily maximum dose. However, if you can take less, that is recommended. You can also take naproxen to the daily maximum dose, but this medicine should only be taken for a short period of time.

Can I take 800 mg 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.

What medications can decrease milk supply?

For example, antihistamines like Benadryl, Zyrtec, Allegra, etc, or decongestants like Sudafed, can decrease your milk supply. So please call us if you are breastfeeding and need clarification on the safety of a medication or to see if a medication you are taking may be affecting your milk supply while breastfeeding.

Is it safe to take ibuprofen 800 while pregnant?

The short answer? You should avoid ibuprofen in the second half of your pregnancy (after week 20). It might be safe to use during the first 20 weeks of your pregnancy, but it’s not a first-choice option. If you need pain relief, your healthcare provider will probably recommend you try acetaminophen (Tylenol) first.

How long does it take for ibuprofen to get into breast milk?

Drug Levels
A milk ibuprofen level of 13 mcg/L was detected 30 minutes after the first dose. The highest level measured was 180 mcg/L about 4 hours after the third dose, 20.5 hours after the first dose.

What happens if you accidentally take one ibuprofen while pregnant?

I’ve accidentally taken ibuprofen during pregnancy
If you’ve accidentally taken a one-off dosage of ibuprofen before week 30 of your pregnancy, don’t worry. This is unlikely to cause any harm, however regular use is dangerous and not recommended. If you have any concerns, please talk your GP, pharmacist or midwife.

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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