Is Lexapro ok while breastfeeding?

Understanding Lexapro and Breastfeeding
Lexapro, known generically as escitalopram, is a commonly prescribed antidepressant that falls under the category of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). 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. Studies have shown that while the medication does pass into breast milk, the levels are typically low and are not associated with significant risks to breastfed infants. Most studies report no harmful effects on the intellectual development of babies exposed to escitalopram through breastfeeding.
However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. A few case reports have noted instances of sleepiness and weight loss in infants, but these occurrences are rare and not conclusively linked to the medication. Additionally, while a safety scoring system has deemed escitalopram use possible during breastfeeding, there was one reported case of necrotizing enterocolitis in a newborn whose mother was taking the drug. Importantly, causality was not established in this instance .
Expert Recommendations
Healthcare professionals often advise that while Lexapro can be used during breastfeeding, it is essential for mothers to remain vigilant about their infant’s behavior and health. Monitoring for any unusual symptoms in the baby, such as excessive sleepiness or feeding difficulties, is recommended.
Moreover, some experts suggest that if there are alternative medications that could effectively manage a mother’s mental health without the potential risks associated with Lexapro, those options should be considered. Ultimately, the decision to continue Lexapro while breastfeeding should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider, who can weigh the benefits against any potential risks.
Conclusion
In summary, Lexapro is generally regarded as safe for breastfeeding mothers, with low levels found in breast milk and minimal reported adverse effects on infants. However, as with any medication, it is crucial for mothers to consult with their healthcare providers to ensure the best outcomes for both their mental health and their baby’s well-being.

How much weight gain does Lexapro have?

Increases in weight during Lexapro treatment may vary from 0.5% to more than 7% [2, 10]. Furthermore, it is not uncommon for people whose body mass index (BMI) was low before starting treatment to experience significant gains.

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.

Does SSRI decrease milk supply?

In brief, numerous animal studies have established serotonergic transmission as a key regulator of lactation homeostasis, with increased levels of serotonergic activity (including through use of SRIs) accelerating the rate of mammary gland involution, leading to a reduction in milk production 17.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

What is the safest anxiety medication 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 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.