Is metformin safe while breastfeeding?

Understanding Metformin Use While Breastfeeding
Metformin, a widely prescribed medication primarily used to manage type 2 diabetes, has raised questions regarding its safety during breastfeeding. As more mothers seek to balance their health needs with the well-being of their infants, understanding the implications of medication use during lactation becomes crucial.
Safety Profile of Metformin in Breastfeeding
Research indicates that metformin does pass into breast milk, but the quantities are generally small. According to various studies, the relative infant dose of metformin remains below the threshold considered safe for breastfeeding infants, which is typically around 10 mg/kg/day. This suggests that the medication is unlikely to cause adverse effects in breastfed babies.
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) supports the notion that metformin is safe for use during breastfeeding. They emphasize that while the drug can be detected in breast milk, it does not appear to lead to developmental issues in infants. Furthermore, a retrospective study involving 250 women found that a significant majority (59%) were successful in breastfeeding while on metformin, with no reported negative outcomes for the infants.
Potential Benefits and Considerations
Interestingly, some studies have explored the potential of metformin as a galactagogue, a substance that may help increase milk production in breastfeeding mothers. While this application is still under investigation, it highlights the dual role metformin may play for some women. However, healthcare providers recommend that mothers consult with their doctors for personalized lactation support and to discuss any concerns regarding medication use during breastfeeding.
Conclusion
In summary, metformin is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. The medication’s passage into breast milk occurs in minimal amounts, and current research indicates no significant risks to infant health. Nevertheless, as with any medication, it is essential for mothers to engage in open discussions with their healthcare providers to ensure both their health and that of their breastfeeding infants are prioritized.

Why do doctors no longer prescribe metformin?

Why do doctors no longer recommend metformin? Doctors still often prescribe metformin to help treat T2DM. However, metformin may not be suitable for everyone with T2DM. For example, a doctor may prescribe alternative treatments, such as SGLT2 inhibitors, in people with kidney problems.

Does metformin increase milk supply?

Peak milk production generally showed a small increase in participants who had completed the metformin course, while production in the placebo group and non-completers generally declined: Median change [interquartile range], +22 [−5 to +54] mL/24 hr versus −58 [−83 to −1] mL/24 hr, metformin versus placebo + non- …

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.

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.

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 …

Does metformin decrease milk supply?

Peak milk production generally showed a small increase in participants who had completed the metformin course, while production in the placebo group and non-completers generally declined: Median change [interquartile range], +22 [−5 to +54] mL/24 hr versus −58 [−83 to −1] mL/24 hr, metformin versus placebo + non- …

What are the nursing concerns of metformin?

Metformin should be used with caution in patients at risk of developing lactic acidosis, such as those with hypoxemia, hypoperfusion, dehydration, and sepsis. Moreover, its use is contraindicated in patients with known metformin hypersensitivity, severe renal dysfunction, and acute or metabolic acidosis.

Does metformin affect baby during breastfeeding?

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.

What diabetic medication is 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.