Is Ozempic OK while breastfeeding?

Understanding Ozempic and Breastfeeding
As the popularity of Ozempic, a medication primarily used for managing blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes, continues to rise, many nursing mothers are left wondering about its safety during breastfeeding. The active ingredient in Ozempic, semaglutide, has been the subject of various studies, but the consensus remains cautious.
Current Research and Recommendations
The available research presents a mixed picture regarding the use of Ozempic while breastfeeding. Notably, studies indicate that semaglutide is not detectable in the breast milk of mothers who are administered the drug subcutaneously. This suggests that the risk of exposure for breastfed infants may be minimal, as no adverse effects have been reported in infants whose mothers took the medication. However, the lack of extensive data on the long-term effects of semaglutide on breastfeeding infants raises significant concerns.
Health professionals generally advise that nursing mothers consult with their healthcare providers before starting Ozempic. The official stance from the manufacturer, Novo Nordisk, is that the safety of Ozempic for newborns has not been established, and there is uncertainty regarding whether the drug is excreted in human breast milk. This caution is echoed by various medical sources, which recommend that breastfeeding mothers should approach the use of this medication with care, particularly if they are nursing a newborn or preterm infant.
Potential Risks and Considerations
While the immediate data may suggest a low risk of adverse effects, the absence of comprehensive studies means that potential long-term impacts on infants remain unknown. Additionally, medications can influence breast milk supply, and since hormones play a crucial role in milk production, any drug that alters hormonal balance could potentially affect breastfeeding.
Given these factors, healthcare providers often recommend that mothers weigh the benefits of managing their diabetes with Ozempic against the potential risks to their infants. For those considering this medication, a thorough discussion with a healthcare professional is essential to ensure that both maternal health and infant safety are prioritized.
Conclusion
In summary, while initial findings indicate that Ozempic may not pose a significant risk to breastfeeding infants, the lack of extensive research necessitates a cautious approach. Nursing mothers should engage in open dialogue with their healthcare providers to make informed decisions tailored to their specific circumstances. As more data becomes available, clearer guidelines may emerge, but for now, caution is the best course of action.

What gastric medications are safe while breastfeeding?

Any PPI can be used during breastfeeding, however omeprazole and pantoprazole are the PPIs of choice as they are excreted into breast milk in very small amounts and have evidence to support their use. Any PPI that passes into breast milk is likely to be degraded in the infant’s gastrointestinal tract.

What can I take to lose weight while breastfeeding?

Aim to eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables while minimizing empty carbohydrates and junk food. For some, consuming 1800 calories/day does not allow much room for weight loss via cutting calories however, you can pair dieting with exercise to promote weight loss at a safe pace.

Can you take Ozempic postpartum?

With little research on how GLP-1 drugs affect pregnancy, experts don’t recommend that you take Ozempic if you’re trying to get pregnant, are pregnant, or are breastfeeding unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.

Which drug is usually avoided with breastfeeding?

Table. Examples of drugs contraindicated in breastfeeding.

Drug	Comment
Iodine	High doses (>150 micrograms daily) lead to risk of infant hypothyroidism
Lithium	Breastfeeding only feasible with rigorous monitoring
Radiopharmaceuticals	Contact obstetric information service
Retinoids (oral)	Potential for serious adverse effects

What can I take for a stomach bug while breastfeeding?

Some people are prescribed (or buy) prochlorperazine (Buccastem ®, Stemetil ®) tablets to relieve the nausea and vomiting, loperamide (Imodium®) to reduce the symptoms of diarrhoea and rehydrating sachets (Dioralyte ®) to prevent dehydration. These drugs are suitable to take and carry on breastfeeding as normal.

Is it safe to take Ozempic while breastfeeding?

As a result, since the potential risks to nursing infants are not fully understood, healthcare professionals typically advise against using Ozempic while breastfeeding unless the benefits of the medication significantly outweigh the potential risks.

Can you have a baby on Ozempic?

The makers of Ozempic recommend discontinuing the medication at least two months prior to becoming pregnant, so if you become pregnant while using the medication, your provider will likely recommend you stop taking it.

Is Ozempic safe postpartum?

With little research on how GLP-1 drugs affect pregnancy, experts don’t recommend that you take Ozempic if you’re trying to get pregnant, are pregnant, or are breastfeeding unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.

Does Ozempic make you more fertile?

In conclusion, while Ozempic and Wegovy are not fertility medications, their role in managing weight and insulin resistance can indirectly influence fertility positively.

Can I take weight loss shots while breastfeeding?

Since weight loss medication is designed to affect your metabolism, it can also affect a developing infant’s metabolism. It is important to remember that breastfeeding mothers should not take any form of weight loss medication unless instructed by their doctor.