What is the safest mood stabilizer for breastfeeding?

The Safest Mood Stabilizer for Breastfeeding Mothers
Navigating the complexities of mental health treatment during breastfeeding can be particularly challenging for women with bipolar disorder. The postpartum period is a time of heightened vulnerability, with many women experiencing psychiatric symptoms or relapses. As such, the choice of mood stabilizer becomes crucial, not only for the mother’s well-being but also for the safety of the breastfeeding infant.
Lamotrigine: A Leading Choice
Among the various mood stabilizers, lamotrigine (Lamictal) has emerged as one of the safest options for breastfeeding mothers. Research indicates that lamotrigine is well-tolerated and has a favorable safety profile when it comes to breastfeeding. It is often prescribed to women of reproductive age due to its effectiveness in managing bipolar disorder while minimizing risks to the infant.
The pharmacokinetics of lamotrigine suggest that it has relatively low levels in breast milk, which translates to minimal exposure for the breastfeeding infant. This characteristic makes it a preferred choice for many healthcare providers when considering the balance between maternal mental health and infant safety.
Other Considerations: Carbamazepine and Valproate
While lamotrigine stands out, other mood stabilizers like carbamazepine have also been deemed compatible with breastfeeding. However, caution is advised, as the data surrounding these medications is less robust compared to lamotrigine. Valproate, on the other hand, is generally discouraged during breastfeeding due to its higher risk profile for infants.
The Importance of Individual Assessment
It’s essential to recognize that the decision regarding mood stabilizers should be personalized. Factors such as the mother’s mental health history, the severity of her condition, and her response to previous treatments must be taken into account. Clinicians often emphasize the importance of a collaborative approach, where mothers are actively involved in discussions about their treatment options.
Conclusion
In summary, lamotrigine is currently regarded as the safest mood stabilizer for breastfeeding mothers, balancing efficacy in managing bipolar disorder with a low risk of adverse effects on infants. However, each case is unique, and ongoing communication with healthcare providers is vital to ensure both maternal and infant health are prioritized during this critical period.

Which antipsychotic is preferred in breastfeeding?

The level of antipsychotics which pass to the baby through breastmilk is lowest for Olanzapine and Quetiapine. This does not mean that you can’t breastfeed with other antipsychotics.

Which medication for depression would be safe to use with a breast feeding mother?

Infant exposure of antidepressants through breast milk is generally low to very low. We consider that when antidepressant treatment is indicated in women with postpartum depression, they should not be advised to discontinue breastfeeding. Paroxetine and sertraline are most likely suitable first-line agents.

Is it safe to take Abilify while breastfeeding?

A limited number of studies have shown that when a person who is breastfeeding takes up to 15mg of aripiprazole a day, the medication passes into breastmilk in small amounts. While there have been cases of babies becoming sleepier than usual, most breastfed babies exposed to aripiprazole have no reported symptoms.

What two hormones relax the mother during breastfeeding?

Prolactin is sometimes called “the love hormone.” In animals, it is responsible for mothering behaviors. Oxytocin is responsible for the relaxed, sometimes sleepy, calm feelings that accompany milk letdown. Together, these two hormones keep mothers relaxed, calm, and ready to care for their babies (Uvnas-Moberg, 2003).

Can Abilify affect a baby?

There’s no good evidence that taking aripiprazole in early pregnancy will affect your baby. Taking it in the weeks before birth may sometimes cause withdrawal symptoms in the newborn baby. However, these symptoms do not last long. Your baby will be checked after they’re born and given extra care if needed.

What is the safest mood stabilizer?

Lamotrigine, compared with other mood stabilizers, is characterized by a higher safety profile in terms of teratogenicity and safety during breastfeeding [7]. Additionally, there was no negative effect found on the metabolic profile of patients, and it may even reduce body weight [2,7].

What is the safest natural antidepressant?

Here are some common examples:

• St. John’s wort.
• SAMe. This dietary supplement is a synthetic form of a chemical that occurs naturally in the body.
• Omega-3 fatty acids. These fats are found in cold-water fish, flaxseed, flax oil, walnuts and some other foods.
• Saffron.
• 5-HTP.
• DHEA.

Can I take magnesium while breastfeeding?

Oral absorption of magnesium by the infant is poor, so maternal magnesium hydroxide is not expected to affect the breastfed infant’s serum magnesium. Magnesium oxide supplementation during pregnancy might delay the onset of lactation, but it can be taken during breastfeeding and no special precautions are required.

What is the best mood stabilizer for breastfeeding?

Data for lamotrigine (LTG) appears to be more favorable than other antiepileptics. During lactation, use of valproate and LTG is reported to be safe. Use of typical and/atypical antipsychotic is a good option during pregnancy in women with bipolar disorder.

What is the happy hormone while breastfeeding?

Prolactin also produces the hormone oxytocin, which is often nicknamed “the love hormone” or “baby bonding hormone.” “Oxytocin is the reason why we feel so content and happy when we are breastfeeding,” Cortner explains.