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- Which triptan is best for breastfeeding?
- What should the nurse monitor for after giving sumatriptan?
- When should sumatriptan be avoided?
- What migraine medications are safe while breastfeeding?
- Which drug is usually avoided with breastfeeding?
- How can I stop headaches while breastfeeding?
- Which headache medicine is safe during breastfeeding?
- How long after taking sumatriptan can I breastfeed?
- What are lactation headaches?
- Who cannot use sumatriptan?
Understanding the Safety of Sumatriptan While Breastfeeding
Sumatriptan, a medication commonly prescribed for migraine relief, raises important questions regarding its safety for breastfeeding mothers. As many new mothers experience migraines, understanding the implications of using this medication while nursing is crucial.
Minimal Risk to Infants
Research indicates that sumatriptan is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. The amount of the drug that passes into breast milk is quite low, with studies showing that peak milk levels occur approximately 2.5 hours after administration, averaging around 87.2 mcg/L. This low concentration suggests that the exposure for breastfeeding infants is minimal and unlikely to cause adverse effects. In fact, sumatriptan is not expected to result in any harmful side effects in most breastfed infants.
Guidelines for Use
While the consensus is that sumatriptan is compatible with breastfeeding, some guidelines recommend that mothers may choose to withhold breastfeeding for about 12 hours after taking the medication. This precaution is particularly advised for mothers of preterm infants, where minimizing exposure could be more critical. However, for most breastfeeding situations, this step is not deemed necessary, as the risk of significant exposure is low.
Potential Side Effects for Mothers
It’s worth noting that some mothers have reported side effects such as painful or burning nipples and breast pain after taking sumatriptan. While these effects are not directly harmful to the infant, they can affect the mother’s comfort and breastfeeding experience.
Conclusion
In summary, sumatriptan is largely considered safe for use during breastfeeding, with minimal amounts entering the breast milk and posing little risk to infants. Mothers should feel reassured that they can manage their migraine symptoms effectively while continuing to breastfeed. However, as with any medication, it is always advisable for mothers to consult with their healthcare provider to discuss their specific circumstances and any potential concerns.
Which triptan is best for breastfeeding?
The American Academy of Pediatrics also considers sumatriptan as usually compatible with breastfeeding.
What should the nurse monitor for after giving sumatriptan?
Continually monitor for signs of coronary artery vasospasm and MI, including sudden chest pain, pain radiating into the arm or jaw, shortness of breath, dizziness, sweating, anxiety, and nausea.
When should sumatriptan be avoided?
Use of sumatriptan is not recommended in elderly patients with kidney problems, heart or blood vessel disease, or high blood pressure, and should not be used by elderly patients with liver problems.
What migraine medications are safe while breastfeeding?
Table 3.
| Drug | Hale Lactation Rating | Drugs in Pregnancy and Lactation Briggs Category |
|---|---|---|
| Acetaminophen | L1 | Compatible |
| Aspirin | L3 | Potential toxicity |
| Diclofenac | L2 | Probably compatible |
| Ibuprofen | L1 | Compatible |
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 |
How can I stop headaches while breastfeeding?
Non-Pharmacological Options
- Prioritizing good sleep.
- Eating regular meals and staying hydrated.
- Daily walks/Exercise.
- Wearing your prescription glasses if you are supposed to (avoid eye strain)
- Avoiding known triggers (including common dietary triggers)
- Migraine diary app (free: Migraine Buddy)
Which headache medicine is safe during breastfeeding?
What medications are safe to take while breastfeeding?
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol, others)
- Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others)
- Naproxen sodium (Aleve, Anaprox DS, others) — short-term use only.
How long after taking sumatriptan can I breastfeed?
The amount that transfers into breast milk is 3.5% of your dose. A normal oral dose is 25-100mg. We recommend waiting 2-3 hours (which is the half-life of this medication) after a dose to nurse and to monitor your infant for drowsiness, vomiting, poor feeding. Sandra Lovato RN.
What are lactation headaches?
In some rare cases, moms report headaches that occur when their milk lets down. Experts think this might be related to the surge in ocytocin (a hormone). Some moms find that mild pain killers (like Tylenol or Advil) help and that the headaches become less severe or stop around two months postpartum.
Who cannot use sumatriptan?
have a heart problem such as coronary heart disease, chest pain (angina), heart rhythm problems (arrhythmia) or you’ve had a heart attack. have circulation problems in your legs (peripheral vascular disease) have had a stroke or “mini stroke” (transient ischaemic attack) have liver disease or other liver problems.
