What is the safest benzodiazepine in breastfeeding?

The Safest Benzodiazepine for Breastfeeding Mothers
When it comes to the use of benzodiazepines during breastfeeding, safety is a paramount concern for nursing mothers and healthcare providers alike. Among the various options available, lorazepam and oxazepam emerge as the most recommended choices due to their favorable safety profiles.
Lorazepam: A Preferred Choice
Lorazepam is particularly noted for its low levels in breast milk and a short half-life, which means it is metabolized and eliminated from the body relatively quickly. This characteristic is crucial for breastfeeding mothers, as it minimizes the potential exposure of the infant to the medication. Research indicates that lorazepam can be safely administered to infants, with no reported adverse effects when mothers take it at usual dosages. This makes lorazepam a strong candidate for mothers who require benzodiazepine treatment for anxiety or sleep disorders while nursing.
Oxazepam: Another Safe Option
Similarly, oxazepam is also considered a safe benzodiazepine for breastfeeding mothers. Like lorazepam, it has low concentrations in breast milk and is generally well-tolerated by infants. The Specialist Pharmacy Service recommends both lorazepam and oxazepam as the preferred benzodiazepines during breastfeeding, provided that their use is clinically appropriate.
Considerations for Use
While lorazepam and oxazepam are deemed safe, it is essential for mothers to consult with their healthcare providers before starting any medication. Factors such as the mother’s health condition, the dosage, and the overall health of the infant should be taken into account. Monitoring the infant for any signs of sedation or feeding difficulties is also advisable, especially if the mother is using benzodiazepines long-term.
Conclusion
In summary, lorazepam and oxazepam stand out as the safest benzodiazepines for breastfeeding mothers. Their low levels in breast milk and minimal impact on infants make them suitable options for managing anxiety and other conditions during this critical period. As always, personalized medical advice from healthcare professionals is crucial to ensure the well-being of both mother and child.

What benzodiazepines are safe while breastfeeding?

Lorazepam and oxazepam are the preferred benzodiazepines during breast feeding, if clinically appropriate. Recommendations apply to full term, healthy infants.

What is the best sedative for breastfeeding patients?

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.

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.

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.

Which benzodiazepines have less side effects?

Many traditional benzodiazepines are broken down in the liver and when combined with drugs that block this action, blood levels can rise, leading to side effects. Lorazepam, oxazepam and temazepam are less likely to have this risk due to fewer liver enzyme interactions.

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.

What are the mildest benzodiazepines?

Low-Potency Benzodiazepine List

• Chlordiazepoxide (Librium)
• Clorazepate (Tranxene)
• Diazepam (Valium)
• Flurazepam.

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.

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 Klonopin safe while 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.