When can you breastfeed after taking Pepto-Bismol?

Understanding the Safety of Pepto-Bismol While Breastfeeding
When it comes to managing digestive discomfort, many nursing mothers may wonder about the safety of using Pepto-Bismol. This over-the-counter medication, primarily used to treat symptoms like nausea, heartburn, and diarrhea, contains bismuth subsalicylate, which raises concerns regarding its use during breastfeeding.
Immediate Breastfeeding After Taking Pepto-Bismol
According to recent assessments, the lactation risk associated with Pepto-Bismol is classified as L2, indicating that it is “fairly safe” for breastfeeding mothers. This classification suggests that while Pepto-Bismol is not in the safest category, the risks to the infant are minimal. In practical terms, mothers can resume breastfeeding immediately after taking the medication.
Concerns About Salicylates
Despite the relatively low risk, it is important to note that Pepto-Bismol contains salicylates, which are compounds related to aspirin. There is limited data on how these salicylates affect breast milk and, consequently, nursing infants. Some experts caution against the use of Pepto-Bismol while breastfeeding due to the potential for salicylates to pass into breast milk, which could pose risks, particularly in young children.
Recommendations from Health Authorities
Health organizations generally advise caution. The NHS recommends that breastfeeding mothers avoid Pepto-Bismol, particularly because salicylates can be harmful to infants and are linked to Reye’s syndrome, a serious condition that can affect children. While the immediate risk of breastfeeding after taking Pepto-Bismol is considered low, the long-term use of this medication is not recommended for nursing mothers.
Conclusion
In summary, while breastfeeding mothers can technically breastfeed immediately after taking Pepto-Bismol, the potential risks associated with salicylates warrant a careful approach. Consulting with a healthcare provider is advisable to explore safer alternatives for managing digestive issues during breastfeeding. Ultimately, prioritizing the health and safety of both mother and child is paramount.

How long does Pepto-Bismol stay in your system?

A few days after you stop using Pepto-Bismol, your tongue discoloration should go away on its own, so you don’t really need to do anything. Pepto-Bismol is usually out of your system in one day, but it can take several days for the side effect to go away.

When can you breastfeed after taking Pepto?

Jodilynne516, We do not know how much pepto-bismol transfers into breast milk nor do we have a half life. We would normally say to wait 2-3 hours after a dose to breastfeed, but since your infant is ill and running a fever I would suggest a minimum of 24 hours. I hope this helps. Sandra Lovato RN.

What can I take while breastfeeding instead of Pepto-Bismol?

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends kaolin-pectin products (such as Kaopectate) or loperamide products (such as Imodium) for nursing mothers with diarrhea. Bismuth subsalicylate compounds (such as Pepto Bismol) contain enough aspirin ingredients that they may not be safe for your baby.

When should Pepto-Bismol be avoided?

Do not take this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Pepto-Bismol is not suitable for some people. To make sure this medicine is safe for you, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have: ever had an allergic reaction to bismuth subsalicylate or any of the other ingredients in Pepto-Bismol or Pepti Calm.

How long until Pepto is out of your system?

As it slowly makes its way out of your body you may see black poo. This side effect usually goes away when you stop taking the medicine but it may take several days. If your tongue or your poo is still black after you’ve stopped taking Pepto-Bismol for several days, speak to your doctor or a pharmacist.

Can I breastfeed immediately after giving medicine?

If you take medicine while breastfeeding, it will be transferred to your baby through your breast milk. In most cases, the amount passed to your baby is very small and unlikely to cause harm. But some drugs can become concentrated in breast milk. A small number of these are not safe to take while breastfeeding.

Is Pepto-Bismol safe while breastfeeding for Reye’s syndrome?

There are currently no reports of Reye’s syndrome in babies exposed to bismuth subsalicylate and it is normally only used very short term for stomach upset. Breastfeeding mothers would be well advised to use alternative products to treat acute diarrhoea E.g. loperamine (Imodium®) if possible.

What happens if you accidentally take Pepto while pregnant?

Research has not confirmed that Pepto-Bismol is safe to take during pregnancy. It contains salicylate, which may increase the risk of bleeding. Pepto-Bismol is an over-the-counter medication used to relieve an upset stomach, heartburn, and diarrhea.

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.

How long do you have to wait after taking Pepto-Bismol?

Pepto-Bismol should work within 30 to 60 minutes. You can have another dose after 30 to 60 minutes, if you need to. You can take up to 8 doses in 24 hours. Are there other indigestion medicines?