Is it safe to use lidocaine cream while breastfeeding?

Understanding the Safety of Lidocaine Cream While Breastfeeding
As new mothers navigate the complexities of postpartum care, one common concern is the safety of medications, particularly topical anesthetics like lidocaine cream. The question arises: Is it safe to use lidocaine cream while breastfeeding?
Safety Profile of Lidocaine
Lidocaine is a local anesthetic widely used for its numbing effects in various medical and cosmetic procedures. According to health authorities, lidocaine is considered safe for use during breastfeeding. Research indicates that when lidocaine is applied topically, it only passes into breast milk in very small amounts. These trace amounts are unlikely to cause any adverse effects in nursing infants.
The consensus among medical professionals is that the risk of significant absorption by the infant is minimal. Studies have shown that even when lidocaine is administered in higher doses, such as through epidural injections, the concentrations found in breast milk remain low, and the drug is poorly absorbed by infants if ingested. This means that breastfeeding mothers can generally use lidocaine cream without fear of harming their babies.
Practical Considerations
While the use of lidocaine cream is deemed safe, there are some practical precautions that mothers should consider. It is recommended to wash hands thoroughly after applying the cream to avoid any accidental transfer of the medication to the infant. Additionally, mothers should be aware of the specific formulation of the lidocaine product they are using, as some formulations may contain other ingredients that are not recommended during breastfeeding.
Monitoring for Allergic Reactions
Although serious side effects are rare, it is important for breastfeeding mothers to monitor their infants for any signs of allergic reactions after using lidocaine. If a baby exhibits unusual symptoms, such as rash or difficulty breathing, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately.
Conclusion
In summary, the use of lidocaine cream while breastfeeding is generally considered safe, with minimal risk to the nursing infant. Mothers can feel reassured that the benefits of using lidocaine for pain relief or other medical needs outweigh the potential risks. However, as with any medication, it is always wise to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure that it is appropriate for individual circumstances.

Will lidocaine numb my nipples?

Using Xylocaine 5% Ointment between feeds can help numb and relieve the pain from sore nipples. Before using any medicine while breastfeeding, it is important you get advice from your doctor or pharmacist. They will weigh up the risks and benefits of using the medicine.

Can you use lidocaine for postpartum?

Postpartum numbing sprays are a widely used treatment option to relieve the pain and discomfort that follow a vaginal delivery. This topical anesthetic is one of the many suggestions for effective postpartum care, as its lidocaine agent offers a numbing relief from perineal pain.

What pain relief cream is safe 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 is the nursing consideration for lidocaine?

Check BP and cardiac monitor prior to administration of lidocaine. For stable patients, doses should be given slow IV push at 25 mg/minute. Monitor blood pressure and cardiac monitor during therapy with lidocaine. Assess neurological and respiratory status frequently for signs of toxicity.

Can you use anti-inflammatory cream when breastfeeding?

Creams and sprays for muscle pain are safe to use. Ibuprofen (Nurofen, Actiprofen) or diclofenac (Voltaren) are the preferred anti-inflammatory drugs to use while breastfeeding. Take them only in low doses and only for a short time.

Can I use lidocaine cream while breastfeeding?

There have been many studies done on the transfer of lidocaine into breast milk. All conclude that lidocaine transfer to milk is minimal and probably safe to use during breastfeeding. The dose of lidocaine in dental procedures is minimal and should pose no harm to the breastfed infant.

Do I need to pump and dump after lidocaine?

Local (Bupivacaine, lidocaine, mepivacaine): These are put into the body at the site of the procedure. They generally don’t disperse much in the blood, and therefore don’t pass into breastmilk. No interruption of breastfeeding or pumping.

Can I use icy hot while breastfeeding?

Children may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug. During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication passes into breast milk, but is unlikely to harm a nursing infant.

Who should not use lidocaine?

This medicine may cause a rare, but serious blood problem called methemoglobinemia. The risk may be increased in children younger than 6 months of age, elderly patients, or patients with certain inborn defects.

What happens if lidocaine is absorbed into bloodstream?

Given the half-life of lidocaine in the bloodstream, peak levels may have been as high as 3 μg/mL. Plasma lidocaine levels in the 5- to 12-μg/mL range can cause nystagmus, slurred speech, hallucinations, muscle tremors, and seizures.