Is it safe to take Celexa while breastfeeding?

Understanding Celexa and Breastfeeding
As new mothers navigate the complexities of postpartum life, one pressing concern often arises: the safety of medications while breastfeeding. Celexa, known generically as citalopram, is a commonly prescribed antidepressant that falls under the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) category. Its use during breastfeeding has sparked considerable discussion among healthcare professionals and new parents alike.
Safety Profile of Celexa During Breastfeeding
The consensus among many experts is that Celexa is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. Research indicates that while citalopram does transfer into breast milk, it does so in relatively low amounts. This limited transfer means that the potential exposure for the breastfeeding infant is minimal.
However, some caution is warranted. A few studies have reported instances of mild side effects in breastfed infants, such as increased fussiness and drowsiness. These effects, while concerning, are typically not severe and do not appear to impact the overall health or intellectual development of the child.
Expert Opinions and Recommendations
Despite the reassuring data, opinions among healthcare providers can vary. Some experts advise against the use of citalopram during nursing, particularly if the mother has not previously taken the medication or if other antidepressants have proven ineffective. Conversely, if a mother has been on citalopram during pregnancy, many specialists recommend continuing the medication postpartum to maintain stability in her mental health.
A safety scoring system has also been developed, which categorizes citalopram as acceptable for use while breastfeeding, further supporting its use under certain circumstances.
Potential Risks and Considerations
While the risks associated with taking Celexa while breastfeeding are generally low, it is essential for mothers to remain vigilant. Some potential complications for infants, particularly if the medication is taken during pregnancy or the final trimester, include sleep disorders and withdrawal symptoms. Therefore, ongoing communication with healthcare providers is crucial to monitor both the mother’s mental health and the infant’s well-being.
Conclusion
In summary, Celexa can be a safe option for breastfeeding mothers, particularly when the benefits of treating postpartum depression outweigh the potential risks. As with any medication, it is vital for mothers to consult with their healthcare providers to tailor a treatment plan that best suits their individual needs and circumstances. By doing so, they can ensure both their health and the health of their newborn are prioritized during this critical time.

What is the best mood stabilizer for breastfeeding?

Data for lamotrigine (LTG) appears to be more favorable than other antiepileptics. During lactation, use of valproate and LTG is reported to be safe. Use of typical and/atypical antipsychotic is a good option during pregnancy in women with bipolar disorder.

Who Cannot take Celexa?

are trying to become pregnant, are already pregnant or breastfeeding. have an eye condition called glaucoma – citalopram can increase the pressure in your eye. have epilepsy or are having electroconvulsive treatment – citalopram may increase your risk of having a seizure.

What medication is used for anxiety in nursing?

Anxiolytics Nursing Interventions

• Lorazepam.
• Diazepam.
• Alprazolam.
• Clonazepam.

What effects do antidepressants have on breastfed babies?

There have been a small number of case reports of adverse events in infants exposed to antidepressants in breast milk, including jitteriness, irritability, excessive crying, sleep disturbance, and feeding problems.

What is the safest antidepressant to take while breastfeeding?

Paroxetine and sertraline are the SSRIs of choice during breastfeeding. More evidence is available on the use of SSRIs during breastfeeding than other antidepressant groups and limited data show encouraging outcomes when considering longer term effects on infants.

What can I take for anxiety while breastfeeding?

Safe medication in breastfeeding
They include, in no particular order: SSRI antidepressants e.g. sertraline, citalopram, fluoxetine, paroxetine all have anti- anxiety activity. They take 4 to 6 weeks to exert full benefit. Tri-cyclic antidepressants e.g. amitriptyline, imipramine.

What happens to breastfed babies on antidepressants?

There have been a small number of case reports of adverse events in infants exposed to antidepressants in breast milk, including jitteriness, irritability, excessive crying, sleep disturbance, and feeding problems.

Is Celexa ok to take while breastfeeding?

Citalopram passes into breast milk in fairly small amounts. It has often been used during breastfeeding without any problems but has been linked with side effects, including poor feeding, colic, and being unusually sleepy, irritable or restless, in a very small number of breastfed babies.

Does Celexa improve mood?

How does citalopram work? Citalopram is one of a group of antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs. These medicines are thought to work by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is thought to have a good effect on mood, emotion and sleep.

Does celexa help with postpartum?

Citalopram is a commonly prescribed drug for postpartum depression. It is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), a type of drug that promotes the amount of serotonin in the brain, helping the organ to send and receive neural messages, resulting in better and more stable moods.