Is Vyvanse okay to take while breastfeeding?

Understanding Vyvanse and Breastfeeding
Vyvanse, known generically as lisdexamfetamine, is a medication primarily prescribed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and binge eating disorder. While it can be effective for managing these conditions, its safety during breastfeeding is a topic of considerable concern among healthcare professionals and nursing mothers alike.
Potential Risks to Breastfed Infants
Research indicates that taking Vyvanse while breastfeeding may pose risks to infants. The medication can lead to serious side effects, including heart and blood vessel problems, slowed growth, and increased heart rate in breastfed children . Experts caution that the potential for these adverse effects necessitates a careful evaluation of the risks versus benefits when considering Vyvanse for nursing mothers.
Moreover, while some studies suggest that amphetamines, including Vyvanse, are detectable in breast milk at low levels, the implications of this transfer are not fully understood. Reports indicate that while the drug is present in breast milk, the blood levels of amphetamine in infants are typically very low. However, this does not eliminate the possibility of irritability, insomnia, or feeding difficulties in infants.
Recommendations for Nursing Mothers
Given the potential risks, healthcare providers often recommend that mothers discuss their specific situations with their doctors before continuing or starting Vyvanse while breastfeeding. Some experts suggest that breastfeeding may be discouraged for mothers actively abusing amphetamines, highlighting the importance of responsible medication use.
In practice, if a mother must take Vyvanse, she should monitor her infant closely for any signs of distress or unusual behavior, such as irritability or feeding issues. If any concerning symptoms arise, it may be necessary to adjust the medication or consider alternative treatments.
Conclusion
In summary, while Vyvanse can be taken during breastfeeding, it is essential to approach this decision with caution. The potential risks to the infant, including serious side effects, warrant a thorough discussion with a healthcare provider. Each case is unique, and the decision should be made based on a careful assessment of the mother’s health needs and the potential impact on the child.

What is a safe alternative to Vyvanse during pregnancy?

Alternative treatment options for ADHD, including bupropion and clonidine, have more evidence for safety in pregnancy; however, there is less evidence for the efficacy of these drugs in adult ADHD, and responses might vary. Risks and benefits need to be weighed for each patient when making treatment decisions.

Which drug is usually avoided with breastfeeding?

Table. Examples of drugs contraindicated in breastfeeding.

Drug	Comment
Antineoplastics	Leukopenia, bone marrow suppression
Gold salts	Rash, nephritis, haematological abnormalities
Iodine	High doses (>150 micrograms daily) lead to risk of infant hypothyroidism
Lithium	Breastfeeding only feasible with rigorous monitoring

Is Vyvanse safe while breastfeeding?

Hi, thanks for your post. The most popular medications for ADHD (Vyvanse, Ritalin, Adderall, and Dexadrine) are all compatible with breastfeeding when taken as prescribed. Just watch your child for any new signs of significant insomnia, agitation, or poor weight gain.

What adhd medication is safe while breastfeeding?

Methylphenidate is excreted into breast milk in miniscule amounts—and no adverse effects of methylphenidate have been reported in breastfed infants. Babies must be monitored for agitation, irritability, and poor sleep, along with changes in weight and feeding.

How long is Vyvanse in your system?

The half-life of Vyvanse is less than one hour. Vyvanse can stay in the body for up to three days. Some people metabolize Vyvanse faster than others. Vyvanse can show up in a urine drug test for up to three days, a hair test up to two weeks, and a blood test for usually less than 24 hours.

Will I lose weight on Vyvanse?

You may have weight loss while you’re taking Vyvanse. This was a common side effect in studies of the drug. Some people have loss of appetite or decreased appetite with Vyvanse. These side effects could also lead to weight loss.

Can Vyvanse cause preeclampsia?

Vyvanse is an amphetamine and stimulant drug. Amphetamines are known to increase the risk of certain problems if taken during pregnancy, such as: preeclampsia (narrowing of blood vessels), which can restrict blood supply to the placenta and fetus.

Is it safe to take Vyvanse while pregnant?

Unfortunately, there’s no clear-cut answer. Although Vyvanse and other ADHD medications have not been proven to be safe to take during pregnancy by the FDA, they’re also not proven to be harmful. ADHD medications like Vyvanse fall into category C of pregnancy drugs as determined by the FDA.

How long does ADHD medication stay in breastmilk?

Prescribed Ritalin® (methylphenidate) remains in human milk for about 21 hours after use. Prescribed Adderall® (dextroamphetamine and amphetamine) remains in human milk for over 24 hours.

How long to stop Vyvanse before pregnancy?

Women with ADHD who become pregnant must decide whether to remain on medication or cease taking their Adderall or Vyvanse or other prescription for at least nine months.