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What stomach medicine is safe while breastfeeding?

Understanding Safe Stomach Medications While Breastfeeding
Navigating the world of medications while breastfeeding can be daunting for new mothers, especially when it comes to treating gastrointestinal issues. It’s crucial to ensure that any medication taken is safe for both the mother and the nursing infant. Fortunately, there are several options available that are generally considered safe.
Over-the-Counter Options
Many over-the-counter (OTC) medications can be used to alleviate common stomach complaints without posing significant risks to breastfeeding infants. Antacids such as Maalox and Mylanta are often recommended for treating heartburn and indigestion. These medications work by neutralizing stomach acid and are typically safe for breastfeeding mothers.
For those experiencing gas and bloating, products like Gas-X are also deemed safe. These medications contain simethicone, which helps reduce gas buildup without affecting milk supply or posing risks to the baby.
Antidiarrheal and Laxative Use
When it comes to diarrhea, medications like loperamide (Imodium) can be used safely in moderation. This medication works by slowing down gut movement, which can help manage symptoms effectively. On the other hand, laxatives can be necessary for constipation, and many types, such as polyethylene glycol (MiraLAX), are considered safe for breastfeeding mothers.
Caution with Prescription Medications
While many OTC medications are safe, caution is advised with prescription medications. Some stronger medications, particularly those that affect acid production, such as H2 blockers, may concentrate in breast milk. Therefore, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before using these types of medications.
General Guidelines
In general, most medications can be taken while breastfeeding, but it is always best to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure safety. Some medications can potentially reduce milk supply or have other side effects that may affect both mother and child.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers have access to a variety of safe stomach medications, including antacids, simethicone for gas, and certain laxatives and antidiarrheals. However, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication, especially prescription drugs, to ensure the health and safety of both mother and baby. By staying informed and cautious, mothers can effectively manage their gastrointestinal issues while continuing to provide nourishment through breastfeeding.

What can breastfeeding moms take for an 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.

What can I take for gut health while breastfeeding?

Maternal probiotic supplements
Maternal probiotic supplements effectively orchestrate the breast milk and infant gut microbiome with a wide range of clinical benefits and safety. Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Streptococcus thermophilus, and S. boulardii can be used as maternal supplements to promote infant health.

What medicine is good for stomach infection while breastfeeding?

Loperamide may be used while breastfeeding to treat the symptoms of diarrhoea. There is no need to stop breastfeeding if you have diarrhoea. If the diarrhoea is profuse, watery, bloody, accompanied by other symptoms such as fever or severe abdominal pain, or persists for longer than 48 hours you should see your doctor.

Can I take Pepto Bismol while breastfeeding?

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

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.

Which antidiarrheal drugs are safe in lactation?

Given the safety profile of metformin, as compared with sulfonylureas, it is advisable to consider metformin as first-line treatment during lactation if this drug is appropriate for the particular patient. Nevertheless, second-generation sulfonylureas are also likely to be safe during lactation.

What is the quickest way to get rid of a stomach bug baby?

You can treat stomach bugs at home by making sure your child keeps drinking fluids and gets plenty of rest. The best way to keep your child well hydrated is with an electrolyte-containing solution such as Pedialyte®. Have your child take small sips frequently — meaning every five minutes or so — throughout the day.

Is Pepto-Bismol OK for breastfeeding?

Do not take Pepto-Bismol if you’re breastfeeding. If you do need a medicine, speak to you doctor or pharmacist who will be able to advise on other options that are more suitable.

What can I take if I’m sick while breastfeeding?

Only a miniscule amount of ibuprofen or acetaminophen transfers to breastmilk, making these meds first-choice options for fever and headache while breastfeeding.

What can I take for nausea and vomiting while breastfeeding?

Treating nausea during breastfeeding

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