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What antacids can breastfeeding moms take?

Understanding Antacids for Breastfeeding Moms
Breastfeeding can sometimes come with its own set of challenges, including heartburn and acid indigestion. For nursing mothers seeking relief, it’s crucial to know which antacids are safe to use without compromising their baby’s health.
Safe Antacids During Breastfeeding
Most antacids are considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. Common over-the-counter options include those containing magnesium hydroxide, calcium carbonate, and aluminum hydroxide. These ingredients are typically well-tolerated and do not pose significant risks to nursing infants.
Research indicates that the absorption of these minerals into breast milk is minimal, meaning that the additional intake from antacids is unlikely to exceed what infants receive from other dietary sources. For instance, calcium-containing antacids, such as Tums, are often recommended as they can help alleviate symptoms of heartburn while also providing a source of calcium.
Recommendations for Use
While antacids are generally safe, it is advisable for breastfeeding mothers to consult with their healthcare provider before starting any medication. This ensures that the chosen antacid aligns with their specific health needs and does not interfere with breastfeeding. For example, timing the dosage of antacids around feeding schedules can help minimize any potential effects on the baby.
Potential Side Effects
Although antacids are safe, some ingredients may lead to side effects. For instance, excessive use of magnesium-based antacids can cause diarrhea, while aluminum-based ones may lead to constipation. Therefore, moderation is key, and mothers should monitor their own reactions to these medications.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can safely use antacids like magnesium hydroxide and calcium carbonate to manage heartburn and indigestion. However, it is always best to seek medical advice to tailor the approach to individual health circumstances. By doing so, mothers can find relief while ensuring the well-being of their nursing infants.

What makes reflux worse in breastfed babies?

Babies who are not latching effectively for breastfeeds may have reflux. This can be because they are taking in air when feeding or when crying. Sometimes, babies just need to be in a slightly different position to latch more deeply. Sometimes it can be a result of physiological issues such as a tongue tie.

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 I have Tums while breastfeeding?

Drug Levels and Effects
In addition, oral absorption of aluminum and magnesium is poor. Because of these factors, reviewers generally consider antacid use during breastfeeding to be acceptable. [1-3] No special precautions are required.

Are Tums ok while breastfeeding?

Medications that are considered safe for breastfeeding
These include (but are not limited to): Acetaminophen (Tylenol) Antacids (Maalox, Mylanta, Tums) Anticoagulants (blood thinners such as Lovenox, Fragmin, Innohep, Heparin)

What can I take to settle my stomach 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.

Is Pepcid ok while breastfeeding?

Famotidine gets into breast milk in small amounts and is used in newborn infants in higher dosages than the levels that have been found in breastmilk. Taking famotidine while breastfeeding is not expected to cause problems in breastfed infants.

Can I take Pepto and Tums while breastfeeding?

Pepto-Bismol and breastfeeding
Do not take Pepto-Bismol if you’re breastfeeding.

What are the side effects of Pepcid for babies?

What side effects can this medication cause?

  • headache.
  • dizziness.
  • constipation.
  • diarrhea.
  • fussiness (in babies who take famotidine)

Which antacid is safe for breastfeeding mothers?

There is extensive experience of use of antacids during breastfeeding and they are considered first-line options for managing heartburn or dyspepsia. Alginates and simeticone are also considered acceptable for use during breastfeeding.

What is the fastest way to neutralize stomach acid?

Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) Baking soda can quickly neutralize stomach acid and relieve indigestion, bloating, and gas after eating. Add 1/2 tsp of baking soda to 4 ounces of warm water and drink.

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.

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