Is Pepcid AC safe during breastfeeding?

Is Pepcid AC Safe During Breastfeeding?
When it comes to managing heartburn or acid reflux while breastfeeding, many mothers may wonder about the safety of medications like Pepcid AC, which contains the active ingredient famotidine. Understanding the implications of using this medication during lactation is crucial for both maternal health and infant safety.
Excretion in Breast Milk
Pepcid AC is known to be excreted in breast milk, with studies indicating that approximately 2% of the maternal dose may pass to the infant. While this might raise concerns, it is important to note that the levels found in breast milk are generally low. In fact, the dosages that infants would receive through breastfeeding are lower than those used in newborns for therapeutic purposes .
Safety Profile for Infants
Research and clinical observations suggest that no adverse effects have been reported in breastfed infants whose mothers take famotidine. The medication is considered to be safe during breastfeeding, as it does not appear to cause any significant harm to infants. The Lactation Risk Category for famotidine indicates that it is compatible with breastfeeding, and no special precautions are typically required.
Consultation with Healthcare Providers
Despite the reassuring data, it is always advisable for breastfeeding mothers to consult with their healthcare providers before starting any new medication, including Pepcid AC. Individual health circumstances can vary, and a healthcare professional can provide personalized advice based on the mother’s health history and the specific needs of her infant.
Conclusion
In summary, Pepcid AC is generally regarded as safe for breastfeeding mothers. The low levels of famotidine that transfer into breast milk and the absence of reported adverse effects in infants support its use. However, as with any medication, a discussion with a healthcare provider is recommended to ensure the best outcomes for both mother and child.

Is Pepcid pregnancy safe?

What are the risks of Pepcid during pregnancy? “There are no risks to the mother or fetus,” says G.

Is there a difference between Pepcid and Pepcid AC?

PEPCID® is an H2 blocker. Both Original Strength and Maximum Strength PEPCID AC® begin to work in 15-30 minutes, and help control acid all day or all night. * Dual Action PEPCID COMPLETE® combines an H2 blocker with an antacid, so it starts neutralizing acid in seconds, but has the long-lasting relief of an H2 blocker.

What can I take for reflux 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 antacids are safe while 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.

Does Pepcid help babies with reflux?

Acid-blocking medicines include cimetidine (Tagamet HB), famotidine (Pepcid AC) and omeprazole magnesium (Prilosec). Your child’s health professional may recommend an acid-blocking medicine if your baby: Has poor weight gain, and changes in feeding haven’t worked. Refuses to feed.

What are the side effects of Pepcid for babies?

With any pharmacological agent, there is potential for side effects. Headache, diarrhoea, constipation and nausea are idiosyncratic effects of PPIs that occur in 14% of children[1].

How do you treat acid reflux while breastfeeding?

Helping your baby with reflux

1. get advice about your baby’s breastfeeding position.
2. hold your baby upright during feeding and for as long as possible after feeding.
3. burp (or wind) your baby regularly during feeds.
4. make sure your baby sleeps flat on their back (they should not sleep on their side or front)

Is Pepcid AC safe during pregnancy?

Unless your doctor says otherwise, Pepcid is safe to take during pregnancy. “Pepcid AC is relatively safe to take during pregnancy with no true risks unless you’re allergic to this medication,” says Sherry Ross, MD, an OB-GYN and women’s health expert at Providence Saint John’s Health Center.

Who should not take Pepcid AC?

Famotidine may not be suitable for people with certain health conditions. For example, be sure to tell your doctor if you have ever had trouble with swallowing, kidney disease, or have a condition called phenylketonuria. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, could be pregnant, plan to get pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Can I take Pepcid AC while breastfeeding?

Summary of Use during Lactation
Famotidine doses in breastmilk result in infant dosages that are lower than those used in newborn infants. Famotidine would not be expected to cause any adverse effects in breastfed infants. No special precautions are required.