When can you breastfeed after taking Klonopin?

Understanding Klonopin and Breastfeeding
Klonopin, known generically as clonazepam, is a medication commonly prescribed for anxiety and seizure disorders. However, its use during breastfeeding raises important questions regarding safety for both the mother and the infant.
Klonopin’s Presence in Breast Milk
Research indicates that Klonopin does pass into breast milk, albeit in small amounts. A study highlighted that a mother taking clonazepam at a dosage of 2 mg twice daily had milk levels measured at various intervals postpartum, with the highest concentration recorded at 10.7 mcg/L approximately four hours after a dose. This suggests that an exclusively breastfed infant could receive a maximum of about 2.5% of the maternal weight-adjusted dose, which is a critical consideration for nursing mothers.
Potential Effects on Infants
While the amount of Klonopin in breast milk is relatively low, there are concerns about potential sedation in breastfed infants, particularly if the mother is taking other central nervous system depressants. The risk of sedation is a significant factor, as it can affect an infant’s alertness and feeding patterns. Experts suggest that while clonazepam can be used cautiously during breastfeeding, it is essential to monitor the infant for any signs of sedation or adverse effects.
Recommendations for Breastfeeding Mothers
Given the potential risks, healthcare providers often recommend that mothers discuss their specific situation before continuing Klonopin while breastfeeding. The consensus among experts is that while Klonopin is not outright contraindicated, it is generally advised to exercise caution. The decision to breastfeed while on this medication should weigh the benefits of breastfeeding against the potential risks associated with the drug .
Timing and Dosage Considerations
For mothers who are prescribed Klonopin, timing can play a crucial role in minimizing exposure to the infant. It is often suggested that breastfeeding occurs just before the mother takes her medication, allowing the peak levels of the drug in her system to occur after the feeding. This strategy may help reduce the amount of medication the infant is exposed to during breastfeeding.
Conclusion
In summary, while Klonopin can be used by breastfeeding mothers, it is essential to approach this decision with caution. Consulting with a healthcare provider is crucial to ensure that both the mother’s mental health needs and the infant’s safety are adequately addressed. Monitoring the infant for any signs of sedation and adjusting breastfeeding timing relative to medication doses can help mitigate risks.

How long does benzos stay in breast milk?

There isn’t a clear amount of time for how long you should pump and discard your milk if you’re taking benzodiazepines. Pump and discard your milk for at least 2-4 hours after taking benzodiazepines. It’s probably better to wait longer.

Do anxiety meds pass through breast milk?

From the available data, it appears that all medications, including antidepressants, antipsychotic agents, mood stabilizers, and benzodiazepines, are secreted into the breast milk. However, concentrations of these agents in breast milk vary considerably.

How long do I need to wait to breastfeed after taking Xanax?

Summary of Use during Lactation
If alprazolam is used long term, monitor the infant for sedation, poor feeding and poor weight gain. After a single dose of alprazolam, there is usually no need to wait to resume breastfeeding.

How long after taking drugs can I breastfeed?

A breastfeeding plan
If you do use drugs such as amphetamines or heroin as a one-off, you will need to express your breast milk in the 24 hours afterwards and throw it away before you breastfeed again.

What is the safest benzodiazepine while breastfeeding?

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

How long should I wait to breastfeed after taking Klonopin?

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.

Can you breastfeed on Klonopin?

Clonazepam gets into breastmilk in small amounts. It can cause sedation (sleepiness) and levels might build up in the infant’s body. Other medications might be preferred while breastfeeding a newborn or an exclusively breastfed infant.

How long do you have to wait to breastfeed after taking a pain pill?

The amount that transfers into breast milk is 2.2-3.7% of your dose. We think short term use is probably ok if you do not exceed 40mg in 24 hours. We recommend taking the medication after nursing so you have a break before nursing again as the medication peaks in the breast milk in the first 2 hours after taking it.

What is the strongest painkiller I can take while breastfeeding?

Morphine (Oramorph®, Actimorph®) is the strong opioid of choice while breastfeeding. It can be used with caution at the lowest effective dose, for the shortest possible duration. Oral morphine is frequently given to mothers after a caesarean section. You can use it with caution when breastfeeding.

What is the safest benzodiazepine during pregnancy?

The available literature suggests that it is safe to take diazepam during pregnancy but not during lactation because it can cause lethargy, sedation, and weight loss in infants. The use of chlordiazepoxide during pregnancy and lactation seems to be safe.