Is it safe to take sertraline while breastfeeding?

Understanding the Safety of Sertraline While Breastfeeding
As new mothers navigate the complexities of postpartum life, the question of medication safety during breastfeeding often arises. One commonly prescribed antidepressant, sertraline, known by its brand name Zoloft, has been the subject of extensive research regarding its effects on breastfeeding infants.
The Evidence on Sertraline and Breastfeeding
Research indicates that sertraline is one of the safest antidepressants to take while breastfeeding. Studies show that while all antidepressants do pass into breast milk, the levels of sertraline that infants are exposed to are typically very low. For most mothers, the benefits of treating mental health conditions with sertraline outweigh the potential risks associated with breastfeeding.
A meta-analysis and various studies have concluded that the amount of sertraline ingested by breastfed infants is insufficient to significantly affect their health. Specifically, findings suggest that the drug does not impact platelet serotonin uptake in infants, which is a critical indicator of potential side effects. This is further supported by reports indicating that most babies exposed to sertraline through breast milk show no adverse effects.
Potential Risks and Considerations
While the overall consensus leans towards the safety of sertraline during breastfeeding, some caution is warranted. There have been suggestions that sertraline might occasionally affect the development of a baby’s heart, particularly if the mother took the medication during pregnancy. However, these concerns are generally outweighed by the importance of maternal mental health, which is crucial for both the mother and the infant’s well-being.
Moreover, it is essential for breastfeeding mothers to monitor their infants for any unusual symptoms, especially if the mother was also on sertraline during pregnancy. Some studies indicate that infants who were exposed to sertraline in utero may have a lower chance of withdrawal symptoms if they are breastfed.
Conclusion: A Balanced Approach
In summary, sertraline is considered safe for breastfeeding mothers, with minimal risks to infants. The low levels of the drug in breast milk and the lack of significant adverse effects reported in infants provide reassurance for mothers needing treatment for depression or anxiety. However, it is always advisable for mothers to consult with their healthcare providers to tailor a treatment plan that considers both their mental health needs and the safety of their breastfeeding infant. This collaborative approach ensures that both mother and child can thrive during the crucial early months of life.

Is sertraline safe while breastfeeding?

Sertraline and breastfeeding
It is one of the preferred antidepressants to take when breastfeeding and has been used by many breastfeeding mothers without any problems. Sertraline passes into breast milk in very small amounts and has been linked with side effects in very few breastfed babies.

What anxiety medication is safe 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.

Does sertraline affect newborn after birth?

Taking sertraline throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding does not seem to have any effects on physical or mental development or behaviour over the first years of the child’s life. There have been several large studies of mums taking antidepressants in pregnancy and the risk of the baby then having ADHD or autism.

What is a natural anti anxiety while breastfeeding?

Studies show that passion flower and oat are as effective as prescription anxiety medications. Plus, oats can help boost the metabolism of fats and increase milk production for nursing mamas. Melissa (Lemon Balm). Melissa, a member of the mint family, helps ease anxiety and depression and is an effective antiviral.

Does Zoloft dry up breast milk?

Also, a small study of 6 patients using Zoloft found a slight decrease in milk production as a result. However, this is generally correctable with increased feeds or pumping between feeds. And there is a small risk of serious side effects that you shouldn’t ignore.

What is the safest antidepressant while breastfeeding?

Sertraline and paroxetine (among SSRIs) and nortriptyline and imipramine (among TCAs) are the most evidence-based medications for use during breastfeeding because of similar findings across multiple laboratories, usually undetectable infant serum levels and no reports of short term adverse events.

Can breastfed babies take Zoloft long term effects?

There is no evidence that a mother’s use of Zoloft during breastfeeding causes developmental delays. The majority of drugs aren’t contraindicated for use during breastfeeding, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). There is no evidence of a relationship between Zoloft and autism in nursing babies.

Can sertraline cause lactation?

In the literature, there are three case reports about galactorrhea associated with the use of sertraline. Bronzo and Stahl, in a case with major depressive disorder, have reported galactorrhea after a 5-week treatment using sertraline 100 mg/day.

How much weight do you gain on sertraline?

Zoloft is associated with more weight gain when compared with Prozac. However, it’s not much of a difference. One two-year study by the Journal of Clinical Medicine found that sertraline (generic Zoloft) users gained an average of 5.9 lbs compared to fluoxetine (generic Prozac) users who gained 4.6 lbs.

Can sertraline affect your breasts?

Serious side effects of Sertraline include changes in blood sugar levels, unusual secretion of milk, sudden loss of consciousness, breast tenderness or enlargement, and red or purple spots on the skin. If you experience any of these side effects, seek medical attention immediately.