Is metformin safe during breastfeeding?

Understanding Metformin Safety During Breastfeeding
Metformin, a widely prescribed medication primarily used to manage type 2 diabetes, has raised questions regarding its safety for breastfeeding mothers. As more women with diabetes navigate the complexities of motherhood, understanding the implications of medication use during lactation becomes crucial.
Metformin and Breast Milk Transfer
Research indicates that metformin does pass into breast milk, but typically in very small amounts. According to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), the levels found in breast milk are generally considered safe for breastfeeding infants. A study highlighted that while metformin can be detected in breast milk, it does not appear to adversely affect the development of breastfed infants.
Clinical Insights and Studies
A retrospective study involving 250 women provided valuable insights into breastfeeding success rates among those taking metformin. It found that 78% of women were able to successfully breastfeed, with difficulties often linked to factors unrelated to metformin, such as multiple births or low milk production. This suggests that metformin does not significantly hinder breastfeeding efforts.
Interestingly, some preliminary studies have even suggested that metformin might serve as a galactagogue, a substance that promotes lactation, for women experiencing low milk supply. However, further research is necessary to substantiate this potential benefit.
Recommendations from Health Authorities
Health organizations, including the NHS, generally endorse the use of metformin during breastfeeding. They emphasize that the benefits of managing maternal diabetes often outweigh the minimal risks associated with the medication. The consensus among healthcare providers is that breastfeeding mothers should feel comfortable continuing metformin, provided they consult with their healthcare professionals about their specific circumstances.
Conclusion
In summary, metformin is considered safe for use during breastfeeding, with minimal transfer to breast milk and no significant adverse effects reported in infants. Mothers should, however, maintain open communication with their healthcare providers to address any concerns and ensure both maternal and infant health are prioritized. As always, individual circumstances may vary, and personalized medical advice is essential.

How does metformin affect the baby?

A study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology demonstrates that when the diabetes drug metformin is given to the mother during pregnancy, fetus growth is restricted, including a slowed maturing of the kidneys, which has been linked to a higher risk of obesity and insulin resistance in childhood …

What medications should be avoided while breastfeeding?

Common medicines that are not recommended when you’re breastfeeding include:

• codeine phosphate.
• decongestants that come as tablets, liquids or powders that you swallow.
• some nasal decongestants that come as nose sprays or drops – check with a GP or pharmacist before using them.
• aspirin for pain relief.

Does metformin affect breastfed babies?

Metformin passes into breast milk in tiny amounts and has not been linked with side effects in any breastfed babies. Metformin would not be expected to cause side effects but contact your health visitor, midwife, pharmacist or doctor as soon as possible if your baby: is not feeding as well as usual.

Can metformin reduce baby weight?

Conclusion: For obese pregnant women, metformin could decrease gestational weight gain with no significant reduction in neonatal birth weight. In light of the current evidence, metformin should not be used to prevent poor pregnancy outcomes in obese non-diabetic women.

Will I lose weight on metformin 500 mg?

Many people with diabetes who are prescribed metformin lose around 2% to 3% of their body weight within the first year of starting the drug.

Can metformin cause twins?

Increased ovulation and pregnancy rates have been observed in PCOS, with or without hyperinsulinemia, after metformin (12) from 2 weeks of therapy on (13) without high-order pregnancy. An observational study (14) reported three twins out of 81 gestations (3.7%) with metformin only.

What is not recommended for breastfeeding?

Medical Contraindications for Breastfeeding
There are a few medical contraindications to breastfeeding, and these include: An infant who has the metabolic disorder of classic galactosemia (galactose 1-phosphate uridyltransferase deficiency). A mother living with human T-cell lymphotrophic virus type I or type II.

Does metformin react with milk?

You don’t have to skip dairy completely when taking metformin. But try to avoid sweetened dairy items. These foods add extra calories and sugar, which can make metformin less effective at controlling your blood sugar.

Can a diabetic mother breastfeed her baby?

Whether you have type 1, 2 or gestational diabetes, you can and should continue to breastfeed. Diabetic mothers are advised to breastfeed their babies exclusively for 6 months or longer.

What diabetic medications are safe while breastfeeding?

Insulin has been proven to be safe to take while breastfeeding. Research shows that metformin may also be taken with minimal effect on the baby. Sulphonylureas do get into breast milk to some degree, so there may be a risk that the baby’s blood glucose level will fall.