Home » Blog » Breastfeeding » Is Prilosec ok for breastfeeding?

Is Prilosec ok for breastfeeding?

Understanding Prilosec and Breastfeeding
Prilosec, the brand name for omeprazole, is a medication commonly used to treat conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and peptic ulcers. For breastfeeding mothers, the safety of using Prilosec is a significant concern, and recent insights provide a clearer picture.
Safety Profile of Omeprazole During Breastfeeding
Research indicates that omeprazole is generally considered safe for use while breastfeeding. According to the Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed), maternal doses of 20 mg daily result in low levels of the drug in breast milk. These levels are not expected to cause adverse effects in breastfed infants. This finding is supported by various health organizations, including the NHS, which also affirm that omeprazole can be taken during breastfeeding with minimal risk.
Potential Effects on Infants
While the data suggests that omeprazole does not pose significant risks to breastfed infants, it is essential for mothers to monitor their babies for any unusual symptoms. The limited transfer of the drug into breast milk means that the likelihood of affecting an infant’s health is low, but vigilance is always recommended.
Recommendations for Breastfeeding Mothers
For mothers considering the use of Prilosec, it is advisable to consult with healthcare providers to discuss individual circumstances. Factors such as the mother’s health condition, the necessity of the medication, and any potential alternatives should be evaluated. The consensus among experts is that if omeprazole is needed for managing a mother’s health issues, the benefits often outweigh the risks associated with breastfeeding.
Conclusion
In summary, Prilosec (omeprazole) is deemed safe for breastfeeding mothers, with low levels detected in breast milk and minimal risk to infants. However, as with any medication, it is crucial for mothers to engage in open discussions with their healthcare providers to ensure the best outcomes for both themselves and their babies.

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)

Can a breastfeeding mom take Prilosec?

Omeprazole poses little risk to a breastfeeding infant. Levels in milk are low (one percent of maternal dose), and it is unstable in the stomach at low pH. Virtually all omeprazole ingested via milk would probably be destroyed in the stomach of the infant prior to absorption.

Can I give omeprazole to my breastfed baby?

It works as a thickener to make milk less likely to reflux back up the food pipe. doctor may prescribe. It can take up to 2 weeks to work to improve symptoms. The dose of Omeprazole should be increased after discussion with your doctor as the child gains weight.

What antacids are safe while breastfeeding?

Medications that are considered safe for breastfeeding
Antacids (Maalox, Mylanta, Tums) Anticoagulants (blood thinners such as Lovenox, Fragmin, Innohep, Heparin) Antihistamines (such as Claritin; Benadryl is also safe but may cause infant drowsiness)

Is Prilosec OK during pregnancy?

Despite being labeled as a pregnancy category C drug by the FDA, many studies have demonstrated that omeprazole is safe in pregnant women, as discussed above; in fact, the majority of safety data on the use of PPI therapy in pregnant GERD patients involve omeprazole because it was the first PPI that was available.

Does omeprazole affect baby?

There is no good evidence that omeprazole or other PPIs are linked to miscarriage, birth defects, stillbirth, preterm delivery, or low infant birth weight. Some (but not all) studies have shown possible links between use of medicines in pregnancy that reduce stomach acid and allergy and asthma in children.

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.

How long after omeprazole can I feed baby?

How should you give your child omeprazole? Give this medicine exactly as your doctor or pharmacist tells you, even if your child seems better. For best effect, and if possible, give this medicine on an empty stomach (preferably 30 to 60 minutes before food and 1 hour after food).

How long after omeprazole can I feed my baby?

How should you give your child omeprazole? Give this medicine exactly as your doctor or pharmacist tells you, even if your child seems better. For best effect, and if possible, give this medicine on an empty stomach (preferably 30 to 60 minutes before food and 1 hour after food).

What medication is used for reflux in breastfed babies?

Gaviscon is a medication that we sometimes use for reflux. It works as a thickener to make milk less likely to reflux back up your baby’s food pipe. It can be difficult to give to breastfed babies and it sometimes causes them constipation. Omeprazole is another medication which we sometimes use.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

Leave a Comment