What benzos are safe while breastfeeding?

Understanding Benzodiazepines and Breastfeeding
The postpartum period can be a challenging time for many women, often accompanied by anxiety and depression. While selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly prescribed for these conditions, some women may require benzodiazepines for effective management. However, the safety of these medications during breastfeeding is a critical concern for new mothers.
Safe Benzodiazepines for Breastfeeding
Research indicates that lorazepam and oxazepam are the preferred benzodiazepines for breastfeeding mothers. These medications are favored due to their low levels in breast milk and their short half-lives, which minimize potential exposure to the infant. Studies have shown that lorazepam does not cause adverse effects in breastfed infants when taken at usual maternal dosages. Similarly, oxazepam is considered safe, particularly for full-term, healthy infants.
Alprazolam, another commonly used benzodiazepine, can also be used but with caution. It is recommended that if alprazolam is taken, mothers should monitor their infants for signs of sedation, poor feeding, or weight gain issues, especially if used long-term. Fortunately, after a single dose, there is generally no need to delay breastfeeding.
Risks and Recommendations
While benzodiazepines can be effective for managing anxiety, their use during breastfeeding should be approached with caution. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) suggests avoiding alprazolam during lactation due to potential risks, including sedation in infants. It is prudent for healthcare providers to prescribe benzodiazepines that have established safety records and to do so at the lowest effective dosage for the shortest duration necessary.
Conclusion
In summary, lorazepam and oxazepam are considered safe options for breastfeeding mothers needing benzodiazepines. While alprazolam can be used, it requires careful monitoring of the infant. As always, mothers should consult with their healthcare providers to make informed decisions about their treatment options while ensuring the safety of their breastfeeding infants.

What is the least toxic benzodiazepine?

An Australian (1995) study found oxazepam less toxic and less sedative, and temazepam more toxic and more sedative, than most benzodiazepines in overdose.

Can I take Xanax while breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding while taking alprazolam:
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.

Can you breastfeed with lorazepam?

Lorazepam has low levels in breastmilk, a short half-life relative to many other benzodiazepines, and is safely administered directly to infants. Evidence from nursing mothers indicates that lorazepam does not cause any adverse effects in breastfed infants with usual maternal dosages.

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.

Which sedative is safe in breastfeeding?

This includes the benzodiazepines and antihistamines such as promethazine. However, the ‘z- drugs’ (zolpidem and zopiclone) are preferred for the short-term management of insomnia during breastfeeding, as they have shorter half-lives than the benzodiazepines and appear to pass into breast milk in small amounts.

Can you breastfeed on Ativan?

If you’re breastfeeding or planning to do so, it’s important to consider how Ativan may affect you and your child. Do not breastfeed while taking Ativan. This medication can pass through breast milk and cause side effects in a child who is breastfed. Tell your doctor whether you’re breastfeeding or planning to do so.

Is Klonopin safe for breastfeeding?

Klonopin and breastfeeding
Klonopin treatment is not recommended while breastfeeding. The drug is known to pass into breast milk. Klonopin may cause harmful effects in children who are breastfed. These include difficulty feeding, sedation, and insufficient weight gain.

Is diazepam safe in breastfeeding?

Diazepam passes into breast milk, usually in small amounts. If you take it for a long time or in high doses, it can build up in your milk. This can make your baby sleepy and can make it difficult for them to feed. It is important not to share a bed with your baby until you have finished taking diazepam.

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.

What is the safest benzodiazepine for breastfeeding?

Lorazepam is a preferred choice because it is a shorter acting benzodiazepine, and therefore there is less risk of accumulation in the infant.