Is Nexium ok to take while breastfeeding?

Is Nexium Safe to Take While Breastfeeding?
Nexium, known generically as esomeprazole, is a proton pump inhibitor commonly prescribed for conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and other stomach-related issues. For breastfeeding mothers, the safety of taking Nexium is a significant concern, and recent insights shed light on this topic.
Limited Transfer to Breast Milk
Research indicates that esomeprazole does transfer into breast milk, but the levels are relatively low. According to the Lactation Database, maternal doses of 10 mg daily result in minimal concentrations in breast milk, which are unlikely to cause adverse effects in breastfed infants. This suggests that while some medication does enter breast milk, the amount is not sufficient to pose a significant risk to a nursing child.
Potential Effects on Infants
While the low levels of Nexium in breast milk are reassuring, it is essential to consider the potential effects on infants. Current evidence does not indicate any short or long-term side effects associated with the use of Nexium by breastfeeding mothers. However, as with any medication, monitoring the infant for any unusual symptoms is advisable, especially when starting a new medication.
Consulting Healthcare Providers
Despite the reassuring data, it is crucial for breastfeeding mothers to consult with their healthcare providers before starting Nexium. Individual health circumstances can vary, and a healthcare professional can provide personalized advice based on the mother’s health needs and the infant’s well-being.
Conclusion
In summary, Nexium appears to be safe for use during breastfeeding, with low levels detected in breast milk and no significant adverse effects reported in infants. However, as with any medication, it is always best to discuss with a healthcare provider to ensure the safety and health of both mother and child.

Which antacid is safe during breastfeeding?

Medicines to treat gas and bloating, such as Gas-X, Maalox, Mylanta, and others, are safe to take while breastfeeding. They contain simethicone, which is sometimes given to infants. It is also not absorbed into the mother’s system, so wouldn’t be transmitted in breast milk.

Is Nexium the same as omeprazole?

Omeprazole (Prilosec) and esomeprazole (Nexium) are similar drugs. However, there are minor differences in their chemical makeup. Prilosec contains two isomers of the drug omeprazole, while Nexium only contains one isomer.

Can I take Nexium 40 mg while pregnant?

Currently, the Food and Drug Administration has categorized Nexium in the pregnancy category B. This category indicates Nexium is generally considered safe to use while pregnant. However, there have been some reports of fetal re-absorption and lethality in the embryo in animal studies.

Does Nexium help babies with reflux?

3 The PPIs that are approved for infants over one month old are Nexium (esomeprazole) and Prilosec (omeprazole). While PPIs are available OTC, the formulations are only for adults. Your provider will have to prescribe PPIs for your baby if they want you to try them for infant reflux.

What can I take for acid reflux while breastfeeding?

Antacid and alginate preparations
There is extensive experience of use of antacids during breastfeeding and they are considered first-line options for managing heartburn or dyspepsia. Alginates and simeticone are also considered acceptable for use during breastfeeding.

What is a safer alternative to Nexium?

Alternatives can offer relief for occasional use, such as:

• chewable calcium carbonate tablets.
• liquids like aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide (Maalox) or aluminum/magnesium/simethicone (Mylanta)
• acid-reducing drugs like famotidine (Pepcid) or cimetidine (Tagamet)

Is omeprazole bad for breastfeeding?

Omeprazole and breastfeeding
If your doctor or health visitor says your baby is healthy it is OK to take omeprazole while you’re breastfeeding. There is a little information available which shows that omeprazole passes into breast milk in tiny amounts, but your baby will not absorb a lot into their body.

What are the side effects of Nexium for babies?

Call your child’s doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother your child or do not go away:

• Headache.
• Stomach pain or diarrhea.
• Constipation.
• Gas.
• Dry mouth.
• Upset stomach.

Who should not take Nexium?

If you have an autoimmune disease, liver disease, low magnesium or vitamin B-12 levels or osteoporosis. If you’re pregnant or if you plan to become pregnant. If you took OTC Nexium for more than 14 days and are experiencing bloody stools, severe heartburn, nausea, vomiting or unexplained weight loss.

Can breastfeeding mother take Nexium?

If your doctor or health visitor says your baby is healthy, it is OK to take esomeprazole while you’re breastfeeding. The small amount of information we have about this shows that esomeprazole passes into breast milk in very small amounts. Your baby will not absorb a lot into their body from breast milk.