What anxiety meds can I take while breastfeeding?

Understanding Anxiety Medications While Breastfeeding
Navigating the complexities of mental health during the postpartum period can be particularly challenging for new mothers, especially when considering the implications of medication on breastfeeding. Many women experience anxiety after childbirth, and while it’s crucial to address these mental health concerns, the safety of medications for both the mother and the infant is paramount.
Common Anxiety Medications and Their Safety
When it comes to treating anxiety while breastfeeding, several medications are considered relatively safe based on current research and expert guidelines.
1. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs):
– Sertraline (Zoloft) is often recommended for breastfeeding mothers. It has a low relative infant dose (RID) of 0.4% to 2.2%, meaning that only a small amount of the medication passes into breast milk. Most studies suggest that sertraline does not adversely affect breastfed infants, making it a preferred choice for managing postpartum anxiety and depression.
– Paroxetine is another SSRI that has been deemed safe for breastfeeding, with similar low levels found in breast milk.
2. Benzodiazepines:
– Lorazepam is noted forAnxiety Medications Safe for Breastfeeding
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs):
– Sertraline (Zoloft) is considered one of the safest SSRI options for breastfeeding mothers. It has a relatively low relative infant dose (RID) of 0.4-2.2%.
– Paroxetine (Paxil) and fluoxetine (Prozac) are also considered safe options, with low levels in breastmilk.
Benzodiazepines:
– Lorazepam (Ativan) is considered a safe option for short-term use, as it has low levels in breastmilk and a short half-life.
– Diazepam (Valium) is also considered “probably safe” for breastfeeding, according to guidelines.
Other Medications:
– Propranolol, a beta-blocker, may be prescribed for anxiety during breastfeeding.
– Tricyclic antidepressants like nortriptyline and imipramine have also been used safely in breastfeeding mothers.
It’s important to work closely with your healthcare provider to determine the safest medication option for managing your anxiety while breastfeeding. They can help weigh the risks and benefits based on your individual situation.

What can I take for severe anxiety while pregnant?

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly prescribed for depression and anxiety during pregnancy and after delivery. It does not appear that SSRIs are associated with an increased risk of major congenital malformations.

Does anxiety pass through breast milk?

Cortisol is your body’s primary stress hormone, and it controls much of your feelings. Studies have shown that breast milk from distressed mothers may contain higher levels of cortisol.

What is the safest antidepressant to take while 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.

Is Zoloft safe while breastfeeding?

Zoloft is considered one of the safest antidepressants to take while breastfeeding. Paxil, Pamelor, and Tofranil are also recommended options. Prozac, Celexa, and Effexor may be connected to more possible short-term side effects, but if they’ve worked for you in the past, they might still be worth considering.

What medications are not compatible with breastfeeding?

Common medicines that are not recommended when you’re breastfeeding include:

• codeine phosphate.
• decongestants that come as tablets, liquids or powders that you swallow.
• some nasal decongestants that come as nose sprays or drops – check with a GP or pharmacist before using them.
• aspirin for pain relief.

Can you take Xanax when breastfeeding?

While you’re taking other types of benzodiazepines, doses that make you high, or pills that aren’t from a pharmacy, it isn’t safe to chest/breastfeed. Benzodiazepines like Valium (diazepam), Xanax (alprazolam), Klonopin (clonazepam) and Ativan (lorazepam) are “downers”.

Can I take anything for anxiety while breastfeeding?

Antidepressants. Antidepressants in general are considered to be relatively safe for use during breastfeeding when clinically warranted, and SSRIs in particular are one of the best studied classes of medications during breastfeeding.

What medication is used for anxiety in nursing?

Anxiolytics Nursing Interventions

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

Which drugs cannot be taken when breastfeeding?

ANSWER: Only a few drugs pose a clinically significant risk to breastfed babies. In general, antineoplastics, drugs of abuse, some anticonvulsants, ergot alkaloids, and radiopharmaceuticals should not be taken, and levels of amiodarone, cyclosporine, and lithium should be monitored.

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.