Is Lexapro safe for breastfeeding?

Understanding Lexapro and Breastfeeding Safety
As new mothers navigate the complexities of postpartum life, the question of medication safety during breastfeeding often arises. One medication that frequently comes into discussion is Lexapro, known generically as escitalopram, which is commonly prescribed for depression and generalized anxiety disorder. The safety of Lexapro while breastfeeding is a nuanced topic that requires careful consideration.
Current Perspectives on Safety
Research indicates that Lexapro is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers, but there are important caveats. According to experts, while the medication is not contraindicated, it is crucial for mothers to be vigilant about potential side effects in their infants. Monitoring for signs such as sedation, poor feeding, or unusual weight gain is recommended.
The Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) provides a safety scoring system that categorizes escitalopram as “possible” during breastfeeding. However, it also notes that there have been isolated cases of adverse effects, such as necrotizing enterocolitis in a breastfed newborn, although a direct causal link was not established. This highlights the importance of individualized medical advice and monitoring.
Recommendations for Breastfeeding Mothers
Healthcare professionals often advise that if a mother is taking Lexapro, she should consider timing her doses around breastfeeding. For instance, taking the medication right after a feeding can help minimize the concentration of the drug in breast milk during the next feeding. This strategy may help reduce any potential exposure to the infant.
Moreover, while Lexapro is deemed relatively safe, it is not the only option available. If a mother has concerns about the effects of escitalopram on her breastfeeding infant, she should discuss alternative treatments with her healthcare provider. In some cases, other medications may be more suitable for managing mental health without posing risks to the breastfeeding child.
Conclusion
In summary, while Lexapro is generally considered safe for breastfeeding, it is essential for mothers to remain informed and proactive about their health and their infant’s well-being. Regular consultations with healthcare providers can ensure that both mother and child receive the best possible care during this critical time. As always, the decision to use any medication should be made collaboratively between the mother and her healthcare team, weighing the benefits against any potential risks.

What are nursing implications for Lexapro?

Escitalopram can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby.

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.

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.

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 breastfeeding moms take for anxiety?

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.

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 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.

Is Lexapro good for postpartum?

Other Treatments for Postpartum Depression
In most cases, we recommend professional therapists for further help and will prescribe antidepressant medication such as Lexapro or Zoloft. These medications help increase serotonin levels and help balance hormones.

Is it safe to take Lexapro while breastfeeding?

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.

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.