Is it OK to take diuretics while breastfeeding?

Understanding Diuretics and Breastfeeding
The question of whether it is safe to take diuretics while breastfeeding is a nuanced one, as it involves balancing the mother’s health needs with the potential effects on breast milk and the nursing infant. Diuretics, commonly referred to as “water pills,” are medications that help the body eliminate excess fluid and salt, often used to treat conditions such as hypertension and edema.
Safety of Diuretics During Lactation
When it comes to specific diuretics, such as hydrochlorothiazide, research indicates that doses of 50 mg daily or less are generally considered acceptable during lactation. However, it is crucial to note that higher doses can lead to intense diuresis, which may decrease breast milk production. This is an important consideration for nursing mothers, as maintaining an adequate milk supply is essential for the infant’s nutrition.
Furosemide, another commonly prescribed diuretic, also raises questions regarding its use during breastfeeding. While specific guidelines from health organizations like the NHS provide information on its safety, the consensus remains that any medication taken during this period should be approached with caution.
Potential Risks and Considerations
One of the primary concerns with diuretic use in breastfeeding mothers is the potential impact on milk supply. As noted, intense diuresis can lead to reduced breast milk production, which could affect the infant’s feeding and hydration. Additionally, the composition of breast milk may change slightly with the mother’s medication intake, although significant adverse effects on the infant are not commonly reported.
Mothers should also consider their overall health condition. If a diuretic is prescribed for a serious health issue, the benefits may outweigh the risks. It is essential for nursing mothers to consult with their healthcare providers to evaluate the necessity of the medication and explore alternatives if needed.
Conclusion
In summary, while some diuretics can be taken during breastfeeding, it is vital for nursing mothers to consult with their healthcare providers to ensure that their health needs are met without compromising their milk supply or the well-being of their infant. Monitoring and adjusting medication as necessary can help maintain a healthy balance during this critical period.

Does fluid intake affect breast milk supply?

Excess fluid intake does not improve milk supply. A common recommendation is to drink 1.5 to 2 L of water each day. If you are nursing you could add another 1 L for a total of between 2.5 L to 3 L of water each day. You don’t have to drink cow’s milk to make human milk.

Are diuretics safe postpartum?

Furosemide, a loop diuretic, is a cheap drug, safe, widely available and considered level 1 for use during breastfeeding, especially if used for shorter periods. Long-term treatment may inhibit lactation but is not the case of this proposed therapy, using low dose of only five days after birth.

Which drug decreases milk supply?

Certain medications can suppress lactation (reduce milk production) in breastfeeding moms. Some of the medications that can decrease milk supply include: Antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and cetirizine (Zyrtec). Decongestants like pseudoephedrine (Sudafed, Claritin-D, Zyrtec-D, and Allegra-D).

Who should not take diuretics?

You should not take any type of diuretic if you have severe dehydration, anuria (lack of urine production), or an electrolyte abnormality, per StatPearls. Avoid taking any diuretic drug to which you have a known hypersensitivity. If you have gout, do not take loop or thiazide diuretics.

How do I get rid of water retention while breastfeeding?

When you’re breastfeeding, it’s important to stay hydrated. Try to drink 12 cups (96 fluid ounces) of water each day. Drinking water and clear fluids will help your body flush out any water weight, too. And avoid sugary beverages if you’re trying to lose weight, as these are loaded with empty calories.

What is not recommended for breastfeeding?

Medical Contraindications for Breastfeeding
There are a few medical contraindications to breastfeeding, and these include: An infant who has the metabolic disorder of classic galactosemia (galactose 1-phosphate uridyltransferase deficiency). A mother living with human T-cell lymphotrophic virus type I or type II.

What not to take 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.

Is it safe to take diurex while breastfeeding?

Because of a single case report of metabolic acidosis, the American Academy of Pediatrics characterizes salicylate as a drug that has been “associated with significant effects on some nursing infants and should be given to nursing mothers with caution.”

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

Can I take a diuretic while breastfeeding?

Diuretics, calcium channel blockers, and ACEIs are first-line drugs that can be used, although it might be best to limit use to drugs with breastfeeding safety information. In patients who do not tolerate an ACEI, ARBs are unlikely to adversely affect nursing infants, although no data are available.