Is Lexapro ok to take while breastfeeding?

Understanding Lexapro and Breastfeeding
Lexapro, known generically as escitalopram, is a widely prescribed medication primarily used to treat depression and generalized anxiety disorder. For new mothers grappling with mental health issues, the question of whether it is safe to continue taking Lexapro while breastfeeding is crucial.
Safety Profile During Breastfeeding
Research indicates that Lexapro is generally considered safe for use during breastfeeding, although caution is advised. The amount of escitalopram that transfers into breast milk is relatively low, estimated at about 2.6% to 2.9% of the maternal dose. This low transfer rate suggests that the potential exposure for the breastfeeding infant is minimal. However, healthcare providers often recommend monitoring the infant for any signs of sedation or adverse effects.
Expert Opinions and Recommendations
While many experts agree that Lexapro can be taken while breastfeeding, they emphasize the importance of individualized care. It is crucial for mothers to consult with their healthcare providers to weigh the benefits of continuing treatment against any potential risks. Some studies have noted isolated cases where infants experienced complications, such as necrotizing enterocolitis, but causality was not firmly established.
Moreover, the NHS suggests that while Lexapro may not be the first choice for breastfeeding mothers, it is essential for mothers to take the medication that effectively manages their mental health. This highlights the delicate balance between ensuring maternal well-being and safeguarding infant health.
Monitoring and Precautions
If a mother decides to continue taking Lexapro while breastfeeding, it is advisable to remain vigilant. Experts recommend monitoring the infant for any unusual symptoms, particularly signs of sedation or irritability. Additionally, mothers should maintain open communication with their pediatricians and mental health providers to ensure that both their needs and those of their child are being met.
Conclusion
In summary, Lexapro can be a viable option for breastfeeding mothers dealing with depression or anxiety, provided that they are closely monitored and supported by their healthcare team. The decision to continue treatment should be made collaboratively, taking into account the mother’s mental health needs and the infant’s safety. As always, personalized medical advice is paramount in navigating these complex decisions.

Can Lexapro affect breastfed babies?

Escitalopram passes into breast milk in small amounts. It does not usually cause any problems but it has been linked with side effects including being unusually irritable or restless and being sick in a few breastfed babies.

Do antidepressants affect milk supply?

Mothers who took antidepressants during pregnancy may need more help with breastfeeding. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) can delay the onset of milk secretion if taken during the last trimester of pregnancy.

Is Lexapro or Zoloft better for anxiety?

SSRIs like Lexapro and Zoloft make more serotonin available in your brain—which in turn helps to relieve symptoms.. Some research suggests that Lexapro might be slightly more effective than Zoloft in treating depression and anxiety because it works slightly differently from other SSRIs.

What is the safest antidepressant to take 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.

Who should not use Lexapro?

have ever had an allergic reaction to escitalopram or any other medicine. have epilepsy or are having electroconvulsive treatment – escitalopram may increase your risk of having a seizure. have a heart problem – escitalopram can give you an irregular heartbeat or make your heart beat faster.

Does Lexapro affect breasts?

Breast tenderness isn’t among the published Lexapro side effects, but some studies and unofficial reports have linked Lexapro and breast tenderness. Lexapro may interfere with the normal processing of prolactin — a hormone that affects breast tissue. It’s possible that this could lead to breast tenderness.

Can newborns withdraw from Lexapro?

AAP Grand Rounds (2006) 15 (6): 72–73. Depression affects approximately 9% of pregnant women, and evidence is mounting that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant use during pregnancy can induce a withdrawal syndrome in exposed newborns.

Does Lexapro affect the baby?

If you are taking escitalopram or citalopram at the time of delivery, your baby might have irritability, jitteriness, tremors (shivering), constant crying, different sleep patterns, problems with eating and controlling body temperature, and some problems with breathing.

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.

Is Lexapro good for postpartum anxiety?

Typically, antidepressants—like the SSRIs Prozac, Zoloft, Lexapro, etc. —are used and work very well. They are well studied and considered relatively safe for use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.