Migraine medicine while breast feeding

[Nicole_E]

Pre-pregnancy, I would get migraines about once or twice a month (coinciding with AF) and my medicine of choice was always Excedrin Migraine. Luckily, during the pregnancy I've had much relief from all headaches, which is good since I can't take Excedrin while pregnant.

However last night I started to get what felt like a migraine on the right side of my head but after taking some Tylenol it went away, no big deal. But that got me thinking about AFTER little peanut it here. I will be breast feeding, and I also know that my migraines will most likely return after she's born and my question is: Is Excedrin safe to take while breast feeding? I tried researching and I can't find too many answers and I don't have a bottle of it on hand to read the warning label. My doctor's office isn't open yet so I can't call and I don't want to bug them with this kind of question. Anyone know? I have a dentist appointment this morning; maybe they will know

 

[pLadyBug]

Sorry the answer is no it is not safe. Most medication is not. Everything you consume enters your bloodstream and is released into your milk. However depending who you ask, you may get a few yes answers. The best person to ask about medication is actually not your doctor, but a lactation consultant.

 

[happysaurus]

Well, I'd say yes as it's just paracetamol, ibuprofen and caffeine - all of which you can take when breastfeeding! However, check with doc regarding dosage as maybe it's higher than in normal meds. I took Imigran for migraine when breastfeeding which is not recommended but I discussed it with doctor and researched its half life (from reputable sources). Basically the advice was to pump and dump for 12 hours but I'm neurotic so I did it for 24 and gave the baby a bottle during that time (my doctor was happier with that approach too). However, Imigran is a much newer drug so the effects aren't known which is why the advice was that. In pregnancy I controlled them with a couple of paracetamol swallowed with a mug of coffee.

 

[happysaurus]

As noted above by the PP, there are two sides to taking medicine when breastfeeding. I've included a link that I found useful. Ultimately we are all trying to do the best for our babies and ourselves. https://www.lalecheleague.org/nb/nbmarapr08p32.html