Is metronidazole safe while breastfeeding?

Understanding the Safety of Metronidazole While Breastfeeding
Metronidazole, commonly known by its brand name Flagyl, is an antibiotic frequently prescribed for various infections, including bacterial vaginosis and certain parasitic infections. For breastfeeding mothers, the question of whether it is safe to use this medication is crucial, as it directly impacts both maternal health and infant safety.
Pharmacokinetics of Metronidazole
When considering the safety of metronidazole during breastfeeding, it’s essential to understand how the drug behaves in the body. Studies indicate that neither topical nor vaginal forms of metronidazole have been extensively studied in breastfeeding women. However, pharmacokinetic data suggest that after vaginal administration, plasma levels of the drug are less than 2% of those observed after a standard oral dose of 500 mg. Similarly, topical administration results in blood levels that are about 1% of the peak plasma levels following a 250 mg oral dose .
This low transfer into breast milk is a reassuring factor for nursing mothers. For instance, in cases where metronidazole is prescribed for infections, breastfeeding can generally continue during treatment, although monitoring of the infant is recommended.
Recommendations and Considerations
Despite the low levels of metronidazole found in breast milk, some product labels advise against breastfeeding during treatment and for up to two days after the last dose. This caution stems from the potential for the drug to impart an unpleasant taste to breast milk, which may lead to feeding difficulties for the infant.
Healthcare providers often weigh the benefits of treating the mother against the risks of potential exposure to the infant. In many cases, the therapeutic benefits of metronidazole for the mother may outweigh the risks associated with breastfeeding.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
While metronidazole is generally considered safe for short-term use during breastfeeding, there are some reported side effects in infants, such as a slight increase in cases of Candida infections and diarrhea. These effects, while concerning, are relatively minor compared to the potential complications of untreated infections in the mother.
Conclusion
In summary, metronidazole can be safely used by breastfeeding mothers, particularly for short courses of treatment. The low levels of the drug that transfer into breast milk, combined with the potential health benefits for the mother, make it a viable option in many cases. However, it is crucial for mothers to consult with their healthcare providers to discuss individual circumstances and ensure that both maternal and infant health are prioritized. Monitoring the infant during treatment is advisable to catch any potential side effects early.

Does metronidazole react with milk?

There are no known interactions between metronidazole and foods or nonalcoholic drinks. Do not drink alcohol or anything that has propylene glycol in it while taking metronidazole or for three days after you finish taking it.

Which antibiotics are safe for breastfeeding?

The following antibiotics are all safe to take whilst breastfeeding;

• Amoxycillin, Amoxil ®,
• Azithromycin, Zithromax®,
• Cefaclor, Distaclor®,
• Cefuroxime, Zinnat®
• Cephalexin, Cefalexin, Keflex®,
• Cephradine, Velosef®,
• Clarithromycin, Klaricid®,
• Co-amoxiclav, Augmentin®,

What can I take for BV while breastfeeding?

For some infections (e.g., bacterial vaginosis, urogenital trichomoniasis, or giardiasis), doses of 2g metronidazole are licensed, either as a single dose, or daily for a three-day course. Breastfeeding may continue during treatment, but infant monitoring is required.

Does metronidazole affect baby during pregnancy?

No association was found between metronidazole treatment during pregnancy and preterm birth, low birth weight, or congenital anomalies among the 2,829 singleton/mother pairs in this cohort. Metronidazole is recommended for treatment of BV and T. vaginalis (8, 9).

Who cannot take metronidazole?

have ever had an allergic reaction to metronidazole or any other medicine. are pregnant or breastfeeding. have liver problems. feel you will not be able to stop drinking alcohol while using metronidazole.

What can I drink to flush out BV?

Some studies show that eating yogurt or probiotic supplements may treat bacterial vaginosis, and is quite safe. Another promising remedy is boric acid, a white powder with antifungal and antiviral properties.

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.

What happens if you give birth while having BV?

If you have BV during pregnancy, your baby is at increased risk for preterm birth and low birthweight.

What happens to babies when breastfeeding on antibiotics?

This may be because antibiotics may deplete the “good” bacteria in your baby’s gut. Keep in mind that this effect is usually short lived, not harmful, and not a given. Also, keep in mind that breast milk is great for your baby’s gut health, so it’s important to continue breastfeeding.

Can you take metronidazole when breastfeeding?

It’s OK to take metronidazole while you’re breastfeeding. When metronidazole is taken by mouth, as suppositories, or injected, it passes into breast milk in fairly small amounts. It’s unlikely to cause side effects in your baby, but a few babies have had diarrhoea.