What ADHD medication can I take while breastfeeding?

Understanding ADHD Medication While Breastfeeding
Navigating the complexities of ADHD treatment during breastfeeding can be challenging for new mothers. The primary concern revolves around the safety of medications and their potential effects on both the mother and the infant.
Stimulant Medications and Breastfeeding
Stimulant medications, such as methylphenidate (found in brands like Concerta and Ritalin) and amphetamine (including Adderall and Vyvanse), are commonly prescribed for ADHD. Research indicates that for most lactating mothers, the benefits of breastfeeding generally outweigh the risks associated with taking these medications. This is particularly true for those who require treatment for ADHD, as untreated ADHD can significantly impact a mother’s ability to care for her child and manage daily responsibilities.
Safety Considerations
While the transfer of ADHD medications into breast milk is a valid concern, studies suggest that the amounts are typically low. For instance, a report highlighted that the use ofADHD Medication Options for Breastfeeding Mothers
For most lactating mothers with ADHD, the benefits of breastfeeding outweigh the risks of concurrent treatment with stimulants, the most commonly prescribed ADHD medications.
The two main ADHD medication options that are considered safe for breastfeeding are:
1. Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta): Studies have shown that only small amounts of methylphenidate pass into breast milk, and it is generally considered safe for breastfeeding.
2. Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse): This medication is the preferred option, as very little of the active drug passes into breast milk.
Other ADHD medications like amphetamines (Adderall) are generally not recommended during breastfeeding, as higher levels can be detected in breast milk.
Balancing ADHD Treatment and Breastfeeding
The decision to take ADHD medication while breastfeeding is a complex one, involving weighing the benefits and risks for both the mother and child.
The benefits of breastfeeding, including improved bonding, immune system development, and neurodevelopmental outcomes for the child, are often considered to outweigh the potential risks of ADHD medication exposure.
However, untreated ADHD in the mother can also negatively impact the child’s wellbeing, so the mother’s needs must be carefully considered as well.
Ultimately, the decision should be made in close consultation with the mother’s healthcare providers, taking into account the specific medication, dosage, and the individual circumstances of the mother and child.

Is Concerta ok to take while breastfeeding?

An alternative medication that has a lower relative infant dose in breastmilk is methylphenidate (Ritalin or Concerta). Methylphenidate is preferred during breastfeeding as the relative infant dose is less than one percent of maternal dose but certainly dextroamphetamine may be used if doses are kept low.

What is the safest ADHD medication to take while breastfeeding?

Hi, thanks for your post. The most popular medications for ADHD (Vyvanse, Ritalin, Adderall, and Dexadrine) are all compatible with breastfeeding when taken as prescribed. Just watch your child for any new signs of significant insomnia, agitation, or poor weight gain.

What is the least harmful ADHD medication?

In terms of non-stimulant medications, ADHD specialists recommend using atomoxetine as a first-choice medication for children and adults, followed by guanfacine or clonidine for children, and bupropion or nortriptyline for adults.

What is a safe alternative to Vyvanse during pregnancy?

Alternative treatment options for ADHD, including bupropion and clonidine, have more evidence for safety in pregnancy; however, there is less evidence for the efficacy of these drugs in adult ADHD, and responses might vary. Risks and benefits need to be weighed for each patient when making treatment decisions.

Can Concerta affect baby?

It’s not known if Concerta is safe to take during pregnancy. In animal studies, Concerta did cause problems with development in fetuses exposed to the drug. In these studies, the pregnant animals were given between 40 and 100 times the maximum dose of Concerta that’s given to humans.

Can you take Adderall and still breastfeed?

Hi, thanks for your post. The most popular medications for ADHD (Vyvanse, Ritalin, Adderall, and Dexadrine) are all compatible with breastfeeding when taken as prescribed. Just watch your child for any new signs of significant insomnia, agitation, or poor weight gain.

How long does ADHD medication stay in breastmilk?

Prescribed Ritalin® (methylphenidate) remains in human milk for about 21 hours after use. Prescribed Adderall® (dextroamphetamine and amphetamine) remains in human milk for over 24 hours.

How long do ADHD meds stay in breastmilk?

Prescribed Ritalin® (methylphenidate) remains in human milk for about 21 hours after use. Prescribed Adderall® (dextroamphetamine and amphetamine) remains in human milk for over 24 hours.

Is Vyvanse safe for breastfeeding?

It’s not recommended to take Vyvanse while you’re breastfeeding. Vyvanse may pass into breast milk and may also interfere with the production of breast milk. Vyvanse may cause serious side effects in a child who is breastfed. Examples include serious heart and blood vessel problems, slowed growth, and fast heart rate.

What ADHD medications are safe during pregnancy?

Alternative treatment options for ADHD, including bupropion and clonidine, have more evidence for safety in pregnancy; however, there is less evidence for the efficacy of these drugs in adult ADHD, and responses might vary. Risks and benefits need to be weighed for each patient when making treatment decisions.