Is it safe to take naproxen while breastfeeding?

Understanding Naproxen Use While Breastfeeding
As new mothers navigate the challenges of postpartum recovery, pain management often becomes a pressing concern. One common medication that may come to mind is naproxen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) frequently used to alleviate pain and inflammation. However, the question arises: Is it safe to take naproxen while breastfeeding?
Safety Profile of Naproxen in Breastfeeding
The consensus among healthcare professionals is that while naproxen does pass into breast milk, the levels are generally low. Studies indicate that adverse effects in breastfed infants are uncommon, suggesting that most babies are not significantly affected by their mothers taking this medication. However, caution is advised due to naproxen’s long half-life, which means it stays in the body longer than some other pain relievers.
Despite the low risk, there have been isolated reports of serious adverse reactions in breastfed infants, including blood-related health issues, particularly when naproxen was taken alongside other medications. This highlights the importance of careful consideration and consultation with healthcare providers before using naproxen while nursing.
Recommendations from Health Experts
Many health organizations and experts recommend that while naproxen can be used for short periods, it is generally not the first choice for breastfeeding mothers. Alternatives such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen are often preferred due to their more favorable safety profiles. These alternatives are not only effective but also have a more established safety record in breastfeeding contexts.
Healthcare providers typically advise mothers to weigh the benefits of pain relief against potential risks to their infants. If naproxen is deemed necessary, it should be taken under medical supervision, ensuring that both mother and child are monitored for any adverse effects.
Conclusion
In summary, while naproxen is not outright contraindicated for breastfeeding mothers, its use should be approached with caution. The low levels found in breast milk and the rarity of adverse effects provide some reassurance, but the potential for serious reactions cannot be ignored. Consulting with a healthcare professional is essential to make an informed decision that prioritizes the health and safety of both mother and child.

What anti-inflammatory is safe while breastfeeding?

Ibuprofen is the safest and best studied of the NSAIDs with regard to breastfeeding. The daily maximum of ibuprofen is 3200 mg (16 pills), but you should consult with your doctor before you get anywhere close to that amount.

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

Is naproxen stronger than ibuprofen?

However, Naproxen is a stronger anti-inflammatory than Ibuprofen (which is why you need a prescription for it). Generally, Naproxen is used for moderate pain relief and inflammation, or where Ibuprofen has been ineffective.

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).

Which is safer ibuprofen or naproxen?

The key differences between the two medications are that naproxen lasts longer in the body and may be less likely to cause heart risks, such as heart attacks. Ibuprofen, though, may be less likely to cause stomach bleeding or ulcers. However, these risks are rare in general.

How long does naproxen stay in your system?

Naproxen has an elimination half life of 12 to 17 hours. This is the time it takes for your body to reduce plasma drug levels by half. It takes approximately 5.5 x elimination half-life for a drug to be eliminated from your system. Therefore naproxen will be in your system for about 93.5 hours (5.5 x 17 hours).

Who cannot take naproxen?

Naproxen can cause an ulcer in your stomach or gut if you take it for a long time or in big doses, or if you’re older or in poor general health. Your doctor may tell you not to take naproxen if you have a stomach ulcer or you have had one in the past.

Is naproxen safe for babies?

Most adults can take naproxen. It can also be prescribed to children to treat: muscle and bone disorders for babies from 1 month. conditions which affect the joints for children from 2 years.

Can a nursing mother take naproxen?

Naproxen and breastfeeding
Naproxen is not usually recommended while you are breastfeeding. Other anti-inflammatory medicines, such as ibuprofen, are safer. But if other painkillers are not suitable, your doctor may tell you to take naproxen. It is better to only take naproxen for a short time if possible.

What pain medications should be avoided while breastfeeding?

In some cases, low doses of oxycodone or hydrocodone are safe when used for short-term pain relief while breastfeeding, but you should avoid medications or formulas that contain codeine if possible. Many adults can be slow or rapid metabolizers of codeine which may increase the possibility of side effects in your baby.