What antidepressants are not affecting breast milk?

Understanding Antidepressants and Breastfeeding
The intersection of mental health treatment and breastfeeding is a critical concern for many new mothers, particularly those diagnosed with postpartum depression. As these women seek to manage their mental health while nurturing their infants, the question arises: which antidepressants are safe and have minimal impact on breast milk?
Low Transfer of Antidepressants into Breast Milk
Research indicates that many antidepressants transfer into breast milk at low to very low levels. This is particularly relevant for newer antidepressants, which are often preferred due to their favorable safety profiles. For instance, paroxetine and sertraline are highlighted as the most suitable options for breastfeeding mothers. These medications are associated with the least likelihood of detectable or elevated serum drug concentrations in infants, making them safer choices during lactation .
Specific Antidepressants and Their Impact
1. Paroxetine (Seroxat): Studies have shown that paroxetine levels in breast milk can be below the level of detection in many infants, even when mothers are taking doses typically prescribed for depression. This suggests that the exposure to the infant is minimal, which is reassuring for breastfeeding mothers.
2. Sertraline (Zoloft): Similar to paroxetine, sertraline is noted for its low concentration in breast milk. Research indicates that it is less likely to result in significant drug levels in nursing infants compared to other antidepressants like fluoxetine and citalopram.
3. Nortriptyline: This tricyclic antidepressant also shows low transfer rates into breast milk, making it another potential option for breastfeeding mothers.
Considerations for Breastfeeding Mothers
While the data supports the use of certain antidepressants during breastfeeding, it is essential for mothers to consult with their healthcare providers. The decision to continue or discontinue breastfeeding while on medication should be made on a case-by-case basis, considering both the mother’s mental health needs and the potential risks to the infant.
Moreover, it is crucial to recognize that all medications taken by the mother can enter breast milk to some extent. Therefore, ongoing monitoring of the infant’s health and development is advisable, especially in the early months of life when they are most vulnerable.
Conclusion
In summary, antidepressants such as paroxetine and sertraline are generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers due to their low transfer rates into breast milk. This allows mothers to manage their mental health effectively while continuing to breastfeed. However, individual circumstances vary, and professional guidance is essential to ensure the well-being of both mother and child.

Which SSRI is least secreted in breast milk?

Sertraline has the lowest passage of SSRI drugs into breastmilk. Citalopram also passes into breastmilk in low levels. If a breastfeeding mother has found an antidepressant previously prescribed of benefit, that may influence the choice of drug prescribed.

What is the safest antidepressant 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 is the safest anxiety medication 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 impact milk supply?

Also, a small study of 6 patients using Zoloft found a slight decrease in milk production as a result. However, this is generally correctable with increased feeds or pumping between feeds. And there is a small risk of serious side effects that you shouldn’t ignore.

What is the best SSRI for postpartum?

Overall, sertraline is the SSRI with the most evidence in the treatment of PPD [60, 63, 64].

Is Lexapro safe while 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.

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.

What is a natural anti anxiety while breastfeeding?

Studies show that passion flower and oat are as effective as prescription anxiety medications. Plus, oats can help boost the metabolism of fats and increase milk production for nursing mamas. Melissa (Lemon Balm). Melissa, a member of the mint family, helps ease anxiety and depression and is an effective antiviral.

Does Zoloft affect milk supply?

Also, a small study of 6 patients using Zoloft found a slight decrease in milk production as a result. However, this is generally correctable with increased feeds or pumping between feeds. And there is a small risk of serious side effects that you shouldn’t ignore.

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.