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What can you take for migraine while breastfeeding?

Understanding Migraine Treatment While Breastfeeding
For breastfeeding mothers grappling with migraines, the good news is that there are several safe treatment options available. While the experience of migraines can be exacerbated during the postpartum period, many women find effective relief without compromising their breastfeeding journey.
Safe Medications for Migraines
Over-the-counter (OTC) options such as anti-inflammatory medications are generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen are commonly recommended as they have minimal effects on breast milk and are effective in alleviating migraine pain.
For those requiring stronger interventions, prescription medications can also be utilized. Notably, triptans, a class of medications specifically designed for migraine relief, have shown a good safety profile for breastfeeding women. Sumatriptan, in particular, is often highlighted for its effectiveness and safety during lactation.
Additionally, certain antidepressants like amitriptyline and sertraline (Zoloft) can serve as prophylactic treatments for migraines. These medications have been studied for their relative safety in breastfeeding, with low levels detected in breast milk.
Non-Pharmacological Approaches
In addition to medications, many mothers find relief through lifestyle changes and non-drug therapies. Techniques such as maintaining a regular sleep schedule, staying hydrated, and managing stress can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.
Topical treatments, such as cooling pads, are also recommended for symptom relief. These methods are compatible with breastfeeding and can provide immediate comfort without the risks associated with systemic medications.
The Importance of Consultation
While many treatments are deemed safe, it is crucial for breastfeeding mothers to consult healthcare professionals before starting any new medication. Individual health circumstances can vary widely, and a healthcare provider can help tailor a treatment plan that considers both the mother’s and the infant’s health.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers experiencing migraines have a variety of safe treatment options at their disposal. From OTC medications to prescription drugs and lifestyle modifications, effective management is possible without compromising the breastfeeding experience. As always, open communication with healthcare providers is essential to ensure the best outcomes for both mother and child.

Is Excedrin Migraine safe while pregnant?

Headache: Excedrin Migraine, Tylenol (Acetaminophen), Safe to take up to 1000 mg every 4-6 hours, as needed. Do not take more than 4000mg (4 g) in a 24-hour period.

Is it better to take Tylenol or ibuprofen while breastfeeding?

Your baby receives very little of the medication in your milk, and very few meds will affect your milk supply. Tylenol and ibuprofen are fine to take for pain relief and fever, for example. For allergies and colds, most antihistamines are okay, but some decongestants can decrease your milk supply.

Is it safe to take ubrelvy while breastfeeding?

Ubrelvy is a brand-name oral tablet that’s prescribed to help treat migraine. It contains the active ingredient ubrogepant. Ubrelvy may not be safe to take during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Does breastfeeding affect mother’s teeth?

It increases the risk of tooth decay.
Many breastfeeding mothers develop tooth decay and cavities, even from pregnancy. The cause of this can be one of multiple things. Some breastfeeding mothers vomit a lot due to numerous factors. Vomit washes the teeth with stomach acid, which erodes the enamel.

How can I stop headaches while breastfeeding?

Non-Pharmacological Options

  1. Prioritizing good sleep.
  2. Eating regular meals and staying hydrated.
  3. Daily walks/Exercise.
  4. Wearing your prescription glasses if you are supposed to (avoid eye strain)
  5. Avoiding known triggers (including common dietary triggers)
  6. Migraine diary app (free: Migraine Buddy)

What headache medication can you take while breastfeeding?

Women with migraine may be concerned about breastfeeding due to fears of exposing the baby to medication. However, many medications can be safely taken during breastfeeding, including acetaminophen (Tylenol), anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen (Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve), and sumatriptan (Imitrex).

What can I take for migraines while breastfeeding?

Many commonly used migraine medications may be compatible with breast-feeding based on expert recommendations. Ibuprofen, diclofenac, and eletriptan are among acute medications with low levels in breast milk, but studies of triptans are limited.

Is Excedrin migraine ok while breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding. Be sure to talk with your doctor before using this drug while breastfeeding. Acetaminophen, one of the active ingredients in Excedrin Migraine, is safe for use while breastfeeding. However, the aspirin in Excedrin Migraine can pass into breast milk.

How do you treat migraines while breastfeeding?

Many commonly used migraine medications may be compatible with breast-feeding based on expert recommendations. Ibuprofen, diclofenac, and eletriptan are among acute medications with low levels in breast milk, but studies of triptans are limited.

Are Ubrelvy and nurtec the same thing?

Ubrelvy is only approved to treat migraines in adults once they’ve started. Nurtec ODT is approved to treat and prevent migraines in adults. If being used for migraine treatment, you can combine either medication with migraine prevention medications that work differently from Ubrelvy and Nurtec ODT.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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