What happens if you take Excedrin while breastfeeding?

Understanding Excedrin and Breastfeeding
Excedrin is a popular over-the-counter medication commonly used to relieve headaches, including migraines. However, for breastfeeding mothers, the question of safety regarding its use is paramount. The formulation of Excedrin typically includes acetaminophen, aspirin, and caffeine, each of which has different implications for nursing mothers and their infants.
The Risks of Taking Excedrin While Breastfeeding
While some components of Excedrin are considered relatively safe, the overall consensus among health professionals is that taking Excedrin while breastfeeding is generally not advised. This caution stems from the potential effects that the medication can have on both the mother and the breastfed infant.
1. Aspirin Concerns: Aspirin, one of the key ingredients in Excedrin, is known to pass into breast milk in limited amounts. Experts suggest that if a mother takes a large dose (such as 500 mg), it may be prudent to withhold breastfeeding for at least 12 hours to minimize any potential exposure to the infant. This is particularly important because aspirin can pose risks to infants, including the rare but serious condition known as Reye’s syndrome.
2. Caffeine’s Impact: Caffeine, another component of Excedrin, can also transfer into breast milk. While moderate caffeine consumption is generally considered safe during breastfeeding, excessive intake may lead to irritability and sleep disturbances in infants. Given that Excedrin contains caffeine, mothers should be cautious about their total caffeine intake when considering this medication.
3. Acetaminophen Safety: Acetaminophen is often regarded as safe for breastfeeding mothers when taken at recommended doses. However, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure that it is appropriate for the specific situation.
Alternatives and Recommendations
For mothers experiencing headaches or migraines while breastfeeding, it is advisable to explore safer alternatives. Many healthcare professionals recommend using acetaminophen alone or other non-pharmacological methods to manage pain. Options such as hydration, rest, and natural remedies may provide relief without the risks associated with Excedrin.
In conclusion, while Excedrin can be effective for headache relief, its use during breastfeeding poses potential risks that warrant careful consideration. Mothers should consult with healthcare providers to discuss their symptoms and explore safer treatment options that prioritize both their health and the well-being of their infants.

How long until Excedrin wears off?

Key Points. Excedrin Migraine can work as quickly as 30 minutes to relieve your migraine pain. In clinical studies, patients with moderate to severe migraines experienced pain relief with one dose and it lasted up to 6 hours.

Can I breastfeed my baby after taking aspirin?

Only take low dose aspirin while you’re breastfeeding if your doctor has advised you to do so. Aspirin passes into breast milk in very small amounts, and it is unlikely to cause any side effects in your baby. However, there is a possible link between aspirin and Reye’s syndrome in children.

Is Excedrin Migraine safe for pregnancy?

Official answer. It is not safe to take Excedrin Migraine during the third trimester of pregnancy because this medication contains aspirin, which may cause harm to your unborn baby or increase your risk of complications during delivery.

Why was Excedrin taken off the market?

Why is there a shortage of Excedrin®? In their official statement, GlaxoSmithKline said they’ve halted production because of “inconsistencies in how we transfer and weigh ingredients.” There isn’t a nationwide shortage yet, but drugstores won’t be able to restock once they run out of their current supply.

Is Excedrin ok to take while pregnant?

“I usually say Tylenol is the safest option for pain and headache management within pregnancy,” Langan said. “You can also take Excedrin Tension Headache.” For a natural approach, pregnant women can try a small dose of natural caffeine, like chocolate or coffee for under 200 milligrams of caffeine.

What headache relief can you take while breastfeeding?

You may talk with your physician about butalbital compound (Fioricet), ketorolac, nifedipine, nortriptyline, topiramate, sumatriptan, and nifedipine. These medications are compatible with breastfeeding and are used to treat migraine headaches. Let me know if you have further questions.

What happens if you accidentally take Excedrin while pregnant?

Aspirin may be harmful to an unborn baby’s heart, and may also reduce birth weight or have other dangerous effects. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while you are taking Excedrin.

How long do lactation headaches last?

Experts think this might be related to the surge in ocytocin (a hormone). Some moms find that mild pain killers (like Tylenol or Advil) help and that the headaches become less severe or stop around two months postpartum. Other moms have problems with these “lactation headaches” until they wean.

Which painkiller should be avoided during breastfeeding?

Codeine and dihydrocodeine are weak opioids that are available over the counter in combination with other medications described above. Codeine is not recommended when you are breastfeeding.

What if I took Excedrin while breastfeeding?

Aspirin: Don’t take aspirin or aspirin-containing products when you’re breastfeeding because the drug can cause adverse effects in your baby. Remember that there’s often aspirin in over-the-counter headache medications like Excedrin and Excedrin Migraine.