What steroids can I take while breastfeeding?

Understanding Steroid Use While Breastfeeding
When it comes to managing health conditions during breastfeeding, many mothers may wonder about the safety of using steroids. The good news is that certain steroids can be used while breastfeeding, but there are important considerations to keep in mind.
Types of Steroids Safe for Breastfeeding
Corticosteroids, such as prednisone and prednisolone, are generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. These medications can be effective in treating various conditions, including autoimmune diseases and inflammatory disorders. It is recommended that mothers use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary to minimize any potential risks to the infant.
For instance, studies have shown that maternal doses of prednisolone up to 40 mg produce low levels in breast milk and are unlikely to cause adverse effects in breastfed infants. In fact, a woman with Crohn’s disease was able to use prednisone at a dosage of 60 mg daily postpartum while breastfeeding, indicating that higher doses can be managed under medical supervision.
Dosage and Administration
When using corticosteroids, it is crucial to follow a tapering schedule if high doses are necessary. For example, prednisone has been safely administered at doses of 10 mg daily without adverse effects noted in infants. However, doses exceeding 40 mg are rarely needed for long-term treatment and should be approached with caution.
Topical and Injectable Steroids
In addition to oral corticosteroids, topical corticosteroids are also considered safe during breastfeeding. The amount that enters breast milk is minimal, making them a viable option for localized treatment. Similarly, steroid injections do not require mothers to stop breastfeeding, as the amount transferred to breast milk is significantly lower than that of oral prednisolone.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can safely use corticosteroids like prednisone and prednisolone, provided they adhere to recommended dosages and consult with healthcare providers. The key is to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible, ensuring both maternal health and infant safety. Always discuss any medication use with a healthcare professional to tailor the approach to individual health needs.

Can you take oral steroids while pregnant?

Women taking a systemic corticosteroid in pregnancy may have a higher chance of having a preterm birth. However, it is thought likely that at least some of this effect is due to the underlying inflammatory conditions in these women which have themselves been linked to preterm birth.

What are the safest steroids during pregnancy?

Although it is considered optimal to use prednisone at less than 20mg/day in pregnancy, it is generally accepted that higher doses are allowable for aggressive disease. Inflammation from uncontrolled autoimmune activity is potentially more harmful to maternal and fetal health than high-dose steroids.

Can I breastfeed if I got a steroid shot?

You can have hydrocortisone injections if you’re breastfeeding. It’s not known how much hydrocortisone passes into breast milk, but because most of it stays in your joint, it’s likely to be a tiny amount. It’s unlikely to cause any side effects in your baby.

How long does the 6 pack methylprednisolone stay in the system after usage?

After taking a dose of Methylprednisolone tablet from a Medrol Dosepak it should be out of your system after approximately 13 to 20 hours. Methylprednisolone tablets have an elimination half-life of approximately 2.5 hours to 3.5 hours. This is the time it takes for the drug levels in your plasma to reduce by half.

What medications should be avoided while breastfeeding?

Common medicines that are not recommended when you’re breastfeeding include:

• codeine phosphate.
• decongestants that come as tablets, liquids or powders that you swallow.
• some nasal decongestants that come as nose sprays or drops – check with a GP or pharmacist before using them.
• aspirin for pain relief.

Is it safe to take dexamethasone while breastfeeding?

Dexamethasone and breastfeeding
If your doctor or health visitor says that your baby is healthy, it’s usually OK to take dexamethasone while you’re breastfeeding. It’s not known how much dexamethasone passes into breast milk, but it’s likely to be a very low amount.

What drugs can be passed through breast milk?

Most drug molecules, including alcohol, nicotine and caffeine, are small enough to enter milk. Exceptions are drugs with high molecular weights such as heparins and insulin.

Do oral steroids affect milk supply?

Steroids are also commonly used for pediatric treatment with no side effects when used sparingly and for short periods of time. High doses steroids can cause a transient decrease in milk production.

How long after taking methylprednisolone can I breastfeed?

Results have shown that the transfer of methylprednisolone into breast milk seems to be low. Although, concentration levels may not seem to pose a threat to the infant, mothers can choose to wait 2 to 4 hours to further limit the level of exposure.

Which steroid is safe in breastfeeding?

Methylprednisolone is probably suitable to use during breastfeeding as long as it is taken in low-moderate doses (do not exceed 80 mg daily). If high doses are needed pump and dump for 8-12 hours. A one time injection in your back will probably not effect your milk supply, but cannot say for sure everyone is different.