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Which triptan is best for breastfeeding?

Understanding Triptans and Breastfeeding
For mothers who experience migraines and are breastfeeding, the choice of medication can be a significant concern. Triptans, a class of drugs commonly used to treat migraine attacks, have been studied for their safety during lactation. Among the various triptans available, sumatriptan is often highlighted as a suitable option for breastfeeding mothers.
Safety Profile of Sumatriptan
Research indicates that sumatriptan is safe to use while breastfeeding. The drug is present in breast milk at very low levels, which means that the amount ingested by an infant is minimal and unlikely to cause harm. Specifically, sumatriptan has poor oral bioavailability, further reducing the potential exposure for breastfed infants. This low transfer into breast milk allows mothers to manage their migraine symptoms effectively without significant risk to their babies.
Other Triptans and Considerations
While sumatriptan is frequently recommended, other triptans like naratriptan and rizatriptan have also been considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. However, the specific pharmacokinetics and individual responses can vary. For instance, naratriptan has been used by some mothers, but its safety profile is less documented compared to sumatriptan.
It’s important to note that while triptans are generally deemed safe, the timing of administration can be a consideration. Some experts suggest that if a mother takes a triptan, she might consider withholding breastfeeding for a short period (around 8 hours) after a subcutaneous injection to further minimize any potential exposure.
General Recommendations
Healthcare providers typically reassure breastfeeding mothers that triptans are safe and that the risk of adverse effects on nursing infants is low. The consensus among medical professionals is that the benefits of treating migraine effectively often outweigh the risks associated with the low levels of medication transferred through breast milk.
In conclusion, for breastfeeding mothers suffering from migraines, sumatriptan stands out as a preferred choice due to its safety profile and minimal transfer to breast milk. However, it is always advisable for mothers to consult with their healthcare providers to tailor treatment plans that best suit their individual needs and circumstances.

Is Zomig safe while breastfeeding?

Zolmitriptan Breastfeeding Warnings
If this drug is required by the mother, it is not a reason to discontinue breastfeeding; however, an alternate drug may be preferred, especially if nursing a newborn or preterm infant. Alternate drugs to consider may be sumatriptan or eletriptan.

What is the safest triptan for breastfeeding?

In terms of prescription medications, the most direct migraine treatments available are the serotonin receptor agonists, also known as the “triptan” class. Sumatriptan (Imitrex) in particular has a good record of safety among pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Is ubrelvy safe while breastfeeding?

Ubrelvy is a brand-name oral tablet that’s prescribed to help treat migraine. It contains the active ingredient ubrogepant. Ubrelvy may not be safe to take during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Can I take Ubrelvy while breastfeeding?

It’s not known whether Ubrelvy is safe to take while breastfeeding. The drug hasn’t been studied in people who are breastfeeding. For this reason, it’s not known whether Ubrelvy passes into breast milk or whether it may affect a child who is breastfeeding. In animal studies, Ubrelvy did pass into breast milk.

Can I breastfeed with sumatriptan?

Sumatriptan and breastfeeding
If your doctor or health visitor says your baby is healthy, it’s OK to take sumatriptan while you’re breastfeeding. Only very small amounts of sumatriptan pass into breast milk and it’s very unlikely to cause any problems for your baby.

Can I take eletriptan while breastfeeding?

Limited information indicates that a maternal dose of eletriptan up to 80 mg daily produces low levels in milk and would not be expected to cause any adverse effects in breastfed infants. Painful, burning nipples and breast pain have been reported after doses of sumatriptan and other triptans.

Is Nurtec safe while breastfeeding?

Very small amounts of NURTEC ODT pass into your breast milk. Talk with your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby if you take NURTEC ODT. Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

What is the safest triptan during pregnancy?

If NSAIDs have been used after the second trimester, a review with an obstetrician may be recommended. Triptan2,3 – Sumatriptan is the preferred triptan in pregnancy and breastfeeding because there has been more experience of its use.

Which headache medicine is safe during breastfeeding?

What medications are safe to take while breastfeeding?

  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol, others)
  • Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others)
  • Naproxen sodium (Aleve, Anaprox DS, others) — short-term use only.

What migraine medication is safe while breastfeeding?

You may talk with your physician about butalbital compound (Fioricet), ketorolac, nifedipine, nortriptyline, topiramate, sumatriptan, and nifedipine. These medications are compatible with breastfeeding and are used to treat migraine headaches. Let me know if you have further questions.

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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