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What nausea medication is safe while breastfeeding?

Understanding Nausea Medication Safety During Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding mothers often face the challenge of managing nausea while ensuring the safety of their infants. The good news is that several medications are considered safe for use during breastfeeding, allowing mothers to find relief without compromising their baby’s health.
Commonly Recommended Medications
One of the most frequently discussed medications for nausea is ondansetron, commonly known by its brand name Zofran. Research indicates that ondansetron is generally safe for breastfeeding mothers. It is often used to treat nausea during and after cesarean sections, and studies have shown no adverse effects on breastfeeding initiation or infant health when used in this context.
Another option is cyclizine, which can be used for short-term relief of nausea. However, it is recommended that mothers use this medication with caution and under medical supervision, as monitoring is necessary to ensure the infant’s safety.
Over-the-Counter Alternatives
For those seeking over-the-counter solutions, medications like simethicone, found in products such as Gas-X, Maalox, and Mylanta, are considered safe during breastfeeding. These medications help alleviate gas and bloating without posing risks to the nursing infant.
Additionally, proton pump inhibitors like omeprazole (Prilosec) and lansoprazole (Prevacid) have been noted for their safety profile in breastfeeding mothers, particularly for gastrointestinal complaints.
Important Considerations
While many medications are deemed safe, it is crucial for breastfeeding mothers to consult healthcare professionals before starting any new medication. This is particularly important as some medications can potentially reduce milk supply or have other unintended effects.
Moreover, the timing of medication intake can also play a role in minimizing any potential exposure to the infant. Taking medication just after breastfeeding can help reduce the amount of drug that might be present in breast milk when the baby feeds next.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers have several options for managing nausea safely. Medications like ondansetron and cyclizine, along with over-the-counter remedies such as simethicone, provide effective relief without significant risks to the infant. However, it remains essential for mothers to engage with healthcare providers to tailor their treatment plans to their specific needs and circumstances.

What can I take for sick while breastfeeding?

Safe pain relievers for breastfeeding moms
Advil or Motrin are the best options for symptoms like fever or a headache, since infants can tolerate higher doses, and much lower levels end up in breast milk. Acetaminophen. Tylenol is a good choice, since it’s unlikely to cause side effects in babies.

What can I take for a stomach bug while breastfeeding?

Some people are prescribed (or buy) prochlorperazine (Buccastem ®, Stemetil ®) tablets to relieve the nausea and vomiting, loperamide (Imodium®) to reduce the symptoms of diarrhoea and rehydrating sachets (Dioralyte ®) to prevent dehydration. These drugs are suitable to take and carry on breastfeeding as normal.

Are Dramamine and Zofran the same?

Ondansetron and Dramamine belong to different drug classes. Ondansetron is a serotonin-3 (5-HT3) receptor antagonist, and Dramamine is an antihistamine. Side effects of ondansetron and Dramamine that are similar include drowsiness and constipation.

Can I take Dramamine while breastfeeding?

Despite it is consider safe to use Dramamine during pregnancy, you should check with your doctor before using Dramamine. Lactation: Small amounts of Dramamine are excreted in breast milk. Dramamine should not be given to breastfeeding mothers unless the benefits of therapy outweigh the potential risks.

What can I take for nausea while breastfeeding?

Treating nausea during breastfeeding

  • Cyclizine.
  • Hyoscine hydrobromide.
  • Metoclopramide.
  • Ondansetron.
  • Prochlorperazine.
  • Promethazine.

Can I take Pepto-Bismol while breastfeeding?

Pepto-Bismol and breastfeeding
Do not take Pepto-Bismol if you’re breastfeeding.

Is Zofran ok while breastfeeding?

Using Zofran for nausea isn’t usually considered a reason to stop breastfeeding. However, it may be wise to consider another drug that has been further researched, especially if you’re breastfeeding a newborn or preterm baby. Your healthcare provider can work with you to weigh the potential risks and benefits.

What medicine can breastfeeding moms take for upset stomach?

Medicines For Digestive Problems
Bismuth subsalicylate compounds (such as Pepto Bismol) contain enough aspirin ingredients that they may not be safe for your baby. For a sour stomach or heartburn, Tums and Rolaids are safe to use. Look for the ingredients calcium carbonate or magnesium hydroxide.

Can you take anti-sickness tablets when breastfeeding?

If your doctor or health visitor says your baby is healthy, you can take cyclizine while you’re breastfeeding, but it’s best to only take occasional doses, or for a short time. It is not known how much cyclizine passes into breast milk, but it is unlikely to cause side effects in your baby.

When should Zofran be avoided?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  1. Heart disease.
  2. History of irregular heartbeat.
  3. Liver disease.
  4. Low levels of magnesium or potassium in the blood.
  5. An unusual or allergic reaction to ondansetron, granisetron, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives.
  6. Pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
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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