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Understanding Anxiety Medications Safe for Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding mothers often face the challenge of managing anxiety while ensuring the safety of their infants. The good news is that several anxiety medications have been deemed relatively safe for use during breastfeeding, allowing mothers to maintain their mental health without compromising their child’s well-being.
Antidepressants: A Common Choice
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are among the most commonly prescribed medications for anxiety and depression in breastfeeding mothers. Sertraline, known by its brand name Zoloft, is frequently recommended due to its low relative infant dose (RID) of 0.4% to 2.2%. This means that only a small amount of the medication passes into breast milk, making it a preferred option for treating postpartum depression and anxiety disorders. Studies have shown that most antidepressants, including SSRIs, are found at very low or undetectable levels in infant serum, with few observed side effects in infants.
Another SSRI, Citalopram (Celexa), has also been used successfully by breastfeeding mothers. Anecdotal evidence suggests that mothers taking Citalopram and Wellbutrin during breastfeeding have reported healthy development in their children, indicating that these medications can be effective without adverse effects.
Benzodiazepines: Use with Caution
Benzodiazepines, such as lorazepam and diazepam, are sometimes prescribed for short-term anxiety relief. Lorazepam, in particular, has a low concentration in breast milk and a short half-life, which makes it a safer option for breastfeeding mothers. Evidence suggests that lorazepam does not cause adverse effects in breastfed infants when taken at standard maternal dosages. However, these medications should be used cautiously and typically only for short durations due to potential risks of sedation in infants.
Other Medications
In addition to SSRIs and benzodiazepines, propranolol, a beta-blocker often used for anxiety, is considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. It can help manage physical symptoms of anxiety, such as rapid heartbeat, without significant risks to the infant.
Monitoring and Consultation
While many anxiety medications are considered safe, it is crucial for breastfeeding mothers to consult with their healthcare providers before starting any medication. Each mother’s situation is unique, and a healthcare professional can provide personalized advice based on the specific medication, dosage, and the mother’s overall health.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers dealing with anxiety have several medication options that are generally considered safe. SSRIs like sertraline and citalopram, along with lorazepam and propranolol, can effectively manage anxiety symptoms while minimizing risks to the infant. However, ongoing communication with healthcare providers is essential to ensure both maternal and infant health are prioritized.
What anxiety med can you take 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.
What can I do for anxiety while breastfeeding?
Increase skin-to-skin contact: If you’re breastfeeding, try bringing your baby closer to your body. This feeling can lower your cortisol levels and decrease your heart rate, almost like a calming effect. Practice meditation or deep breathing: Trying to relax is key. This lowers anxiety and reduces stress.
Can you take Xanax while breastfeeding?
Alprazolam passes into breast milk. While it is possible to breastfeed while taking alprazolam, a different medication may be preferred. If you suspect the baby has any symptoms (being too sleepy, poor feeding, and poor weight gain), contact the child’s healthcare provider.
What is the safest SSRI for breastfeeding?
Paroxetine and sertraline are the SSRIs of choice during breastfeeding. More evidence is available on the use of SSRIs during breastfeeding than other antidepressant groups and limited data show encouraging outcomes when considering longer term effects on infants. However, they all have relatively long half-lives.
