What antidepressant is safe while breastfeeding?

Understanding Antidepressant Safety During Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding mothers facing depression often grapple with the decision of whether to continue their medication. The primary concern revolves around the potential risks of drug exposure to their infants through breast milk. Fortunately, research has identified several antidepressants that are generally considered safe for use during breastfeeding.
Preferred Antidepressants
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are frequently recommended as first-line treatments for breastfeeding mothers. Among these, sertraline (commonly known as Zoloft) is one of the most studied and is widely regarded as safe. It has a relatively low transfer rate into breast milk, which minimizes the risk of adverse effects in infants. Other SSRIs, such as citalopram and escitalopram, are also considered safe, although they may cause mild side effects like drowsiness in some cases.
In addition to SSRIs, tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) like nortriptyline (Pamelor) and imipramine (Tofranil) are viable options. These medications have been used for many years, and their safety profiles during breastfeeding are well established.
Considerations and Recommendations
While many antidepressants are deemed safe, it is crucial for breastfeeding mothers to consult with their healthcare providers to tailor treatment to their specific needs. Factors such as the mother’s mental health status, the infant’s health, and any potential side effects must be carefully weighed. The goal is to ensure that both the mother and the baby remain healthy and well-supported during this critical period.
Moreover, the benefits of breastfeeding are significant, and exclusive breastfeeding is encouraged whenever possible. Therefore, the decision to use antidepressants should not be taken lightly, and ongoing monitoring of both the mother and the infant is essential.
Conclusion
In summary, sertraline, citalopram, escitalopram, and certain tricyclic antidepressants are generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. However, individual circumstances vary, and it is vital for mothers to engage in open discussions with their healthcare providers to find the most suitable treatment plan. This collaborative approach ensures that both maternal mental health and infant safety are prioritized.

Is Zoloft or Lexapro safer for pregnancy?

SSRIs usually are an option during pregnancy. These include citalopram (Celexa), sertraline (Zoloft), escitalopram (Lexapro) and fluoxetine (Prozac). Risks include high blood pressure for the pregnant person and premature birth. These risks are small.

Which antidepressant is safest in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Infant exposure of antidepressants through breast milk is generally low to very low. We consider that when antidepressant treatment is indicated in women with postpartum depression, they should not be advised to discontinue breastfeeding. Paroxetine and sertraline are most likely suitable first-line agents.

Does Zoloft affect breastfed babies?

Sertraline and breastfeeding
If your doctor or health visitor says your baby is healthy, it is OK to take sertraline while breastfeeding. It is one of the preferred antidepressants to take when breastfeeding and has been used by many breastfeeding mothers without any problems.

Is Lexapro ok for breastfeeding?

Escitalopram and breastfeeding
Escitalopram passes into breast milk in small amounts. It does not usually cause any problems but it has been linked with side effects including being unusually irritable or restless and being sick in a few breastfed babies.

What is the safest natural antidepressant?

Natural remedies for depression: Are they effective?

• St. John’s wort.
• SAMe. This dietary supplement is a synthetic form of a chemical that occurs naturally in the body.
• Omega-3 fatty acids. These fats are found in cold-water fish, flaxseed, flax oil, walnuts and some other foods.
• Saffron.
• 5-HTP.
• DHEA.

What antidepressants can I take while breastfeeding?

Zoloft (sertraline) is one of the safest antidepressants to take while breastfeeding. It’s a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. If medications like Zoloft aren’t an option, your healthcare provider may recommend Pamelor (nortriptyline) or Tofranil (imipramine).

What medication is used for anxiety in nursing?

Anxiolytics Nursing Interventions

• Lorazepam.
• Diazepam.
• Alprazolam.
• Clonazepam.

What can I take for anxiety while breastfeeding?

Safe medication in breastfeeding
They include, in no particular order: SSRI antidepressants e.g. sertraline, citalopram, fluoxetine, paroxetine all have anti- anxiety activity. They take 4 to 6 weeks to exert full benefit. Tri-cyclic antidepressants e.g. amitriptyline, imipramine.

Does Zoloft pass through breastmilk?

Yes, Zoloft can pass into breast milk. While more research is needed in this area, current research indicates that only a very small amount passes through. (Peak levels in the hindmilk were typically found 8 to 9 hours after a dose.)

Does Lexapro affect the baby?

If you are taking escitalopram or citalopram at the time of delivery, your baby might have irritability, jitteriness, tremors (shivering), constant crying, different sleep patterns, problems with eating and controlling body temperature, and some problems with breathing.