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What pain medication can you take while breastfeeding?

Pain Medication Options While Breastfeeding
Navigating pain management while breastfeeding can be a concern for new mothers. It’s essential to choose medications that are safe for both the mother and the infant. Fortunately, several pain relief options are considered compatible with breastfeeding.
Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen
Both acetaminophen (commonly known as paracetamol) and ibuprofen are widely recommended for breastfeeding mothers. These medications are effective for managing pain and are excreted into breast milk in very low amounts, making them safe for use during lactation. Mothers can take these medications up to the maximum daily dose, but it is advisable to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary.
Opioid Pain Medications
In certain situations, low doses of opioids such as oxycodone or hydrocodone may be prescribed for short-term pain relief. However, caution is advised, particularly with medications containing codeine, which should generally be avoided due to the risk of serious side effects in breastfeeding infants. If opioids are necessary, healthcare providers typically recommend monitoring the infant for any adverse effects.
General Guidelines
When considering pain medication while breastfeeding, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on individual health needs and circumstances. Additionally, mothers should be aware of any potential side effects that medications may have on their milk supply or the infant’s well-being.
In summary, acetaminophen and ibuprofen are the safest options for pain relief during breastfeeding, while certain opioids can be used under medical supervision. Always prioritize communication with healthcare professionals to ensure the best outcomes for both mother and child.

Is it better to take Tylenol or ibuprofen while breastfeeding?

Summary of Use during Lactation
There is no difference in breastfeeding initiation rate between ibuprofen or acetaminophen alone after vaginal delivery.

How long does 5mg of oxycodone stay in breastmilk?

Conclusions: Oxycodone is concentrated in human breast milk up to 72-h post-partum. Breastfed infants may receive > 10% of a therapeutic infant dose. However, maternal oxycodone intake up to 72-h post-CS poses only minimal risk to the breast-feeding infant as low volumes of breast milk are ingested during this period.

What medications should be avoided while breastfeeding?

Common medicines that are not recommended when you’re breastfeeding include:

  • codeine phosphate.
  • decongestants that come as tablets, liquids or powders that you swallow.
  • some nasal decongestants that come as nose sprays or drops – check with a GP or pharmacist before using them.
  • aspirin for pain relief.

Which opioid should be avoided in breastfeeding?

Because most people do not know if they are ultra-rapid metabolizers, and because early signs of opioid overdose in an infant may be difficult to notice, breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with codeine or tramadol.

What is the safest opioid while breastfeeding?

Recommendation. Morphine is considered to be the strong opioid of choice for the treatment of severe pain in breastfeeding. However, the use of any opioid should be at the lowest effective dose and only short-term. A non-opioid analgesic should be used whenever possible.

What painkillers are safe for breastfeeding?

Alternate betweenacetaminophen and ibuprofen every 3 hours for pain and swelling. Acetaminophen and ibuprofen can be taken safely at anytime during your breastfeeding schedule. Avoid taking opioid medication if your pain is managed with this cycle.

Can I take oxycodone while breastfeeding?

Oxycodone and breastfeeding
Although only small amounts of oxycodone pass into breast milk, it may still cause side effects in your baby such as breathing problems, being very sleepy, or difficulty feeding. Because of this potential risk, your doctor may recommend a different painkiller while you’re breastfeeding.

What painkillers can I take while breastfeeding for tooth pain?

Paracetamol is a first-choice painkiller during breastfeeding. It passes into breast milk in very small amounts. The amount of paracetamol your baby gets is far less than what they would get from a dose of paracetamol given to them directly.

What is the safest pain reliever during pregnancy?

Paracetamol is the painkiller of choice for use in pregnancy and its use does not require medical supervision. It is not uncommon for women to have used other types of painkiller early in pregnancy before finding out they are pregnant.

What can I take for tooth infection while breastfeeding?

The following antibiotics are all safe to take whilst breastfeeding;

  • Amoxycillin, Amoxil ®,
  • Azithromycin, Zithromax®,
  • Cefaclor, Distaclor®,
  • Cefuroxime, Zinnat®
  • Cephalexin, Cefalexin, Keflex®,
  • Cephradine, Velosef®,
  • Clarithromycin, Klaricid®,
  • Co-amoxiclav, Augmentin®,
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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