Why cant I take Pepto while breastfeeding?

Understanding the Risks of Pepto-Bismol While Breastfeeding
For many new mothers, the challenges of breastfeeding can be compounded by digestive issues such as upset stomach, nausea, or diarrhea. In such cases, medications like Pepto-Bismol, a popular over-the-counter remedy, may seem like a quick solution. However, the safety of using Pepto-Bismol while breastfeeding is a topic that warrants careful consideration.
The Main Ingredient and Its Concerns
Pepto-Bismol contains bismuth subsalicylate, which is chemically related to salicylates—compounds found in aspirin. This connection raises significant concerns for breastfeeding mothers. Salicylates are known to potentially pass into breast milk, and their ingestion by infants can lead to serious health risks, including Reye’s syndrome, a rare but life-threatening condition that can cause swelling in the liver and brain.
Experts generally advise against the use of Pepto-Bismol during breastfeeding due to the limited data on its safety. While there is no definitive evidence that it causes harmful side effects in nursing infants, the potential risks associated with salicylates are enough to warrant caution.
Timing and Breastfeeding
If a breastfeeding mother does take Pepto-Bismol, it is important to note that salicylates may remain in breast milk for up to two hours after ingestion. This means that while immediate breastfeeding may not be necessary to avoid harm, mothers should be aware of the timing of their medication relative to feeding. However, the general recommendation remains to avoid the medication altogether to eliminate any risk.
Consulting Healthcare Professionals
Given the uncertainties surrounding the safety of Pepto-Bismol during breastfeeding, healthcare professionals typically recommend that nursing mothers consult with their doctors before taking any medication. This is particularly crucial for those who may need to manage digestive issues while ensuring the health and safety of their infants.
Alternatives to Consider
For mothers seeking relief from digestive discomfort, there are alternative remedies that may be safer. Options such as dietary adjustments, hydration, and certain herbal teas can provide relief without the risks associated with Pepto-Bismol. Always discussing these alternatives with a healthcare provider can help ensure both the mother’s and baby’s health are prioritized.
In conclusion, while Pepto-Bismol is a common remedy for digestive issues, its use during breastfeeding is fraught with potential risks due to the presence of salicylates. Mothers are encouraged to seek safer alternatives and consult healthcare professionals to navigate their health needs while breastfeeding.

Will my upset stomach affect my baby while breastfeeding?

A nursing mother with diarrhea caused by food or water sources can continue to breastfeed her child. However, she should also increase her own fluid intake to prevent dehydration (loss of too much water in the body). The organisms that cause travelers’ diarrhea do not pass through breast milk.

What are the nursing considerations for Pepto-Bismol?

Nursing Considerations: Bismuth subsalicylate contains salicylate. It should be avoided if the client has an allergy to salicylates (including aspirin) or if the client is taking other salicylate products such as aspirin. It should not be used if the client has an ulcer, a bleeding problem, or bloody or black stool.

What can I take instead of Pepto-Bismol?

Gas-X, Mylanta, Pepto-Bismol, and Prilosec are available in different dosage forms.

• Gas-X: Available as chewable tablets and softgels.
• Mylanta: Available as chewable tablets and liquid (can be given as drops as well).
• Pepto-Bismol Available as chewable tablets and liquid.
• Prilosec: Available as tablets and capsules.

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 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.

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 can I take for an upset stomach while breastfeeding?

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.

Why is Pepto-Bismol illegal in France?

Due to the known risk of long-term toxicity, bismuth is unavailable in many countries,31 with bismuth subgallate use being restricted in France and banned in Australia.

What anti diarrhea is safe while breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding mothers can take loperamide and/or rehydrating solutions and feed as normal. Acute diarrhoea is a sudden onset or loose and/or frequent bowel motions. It may be caused by infections e.g. food poisoning or a virus. Symptoms may be accompanied by stomach cramps, temperature and headache.

What happens if I take Pepto-Bismol while breastfeeding?

It isn’t clinically known if Pepto-Bismol passes into breast milk. However, it is known that other types of salicylates pass into breast milk and may have harmful effects on a breastfeeding child. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests using caution with salicylates such as Pepto-Bismol while breastfeeding.