Prilosec and Breastfeeding

Because of the risk of potentially serious side effects that could occur in a nursing infant, the manufacturer of Prilosec does not recommend taking the drug while breastfeeding. However, based on your needs, expectations, and current health situation, you and your healthcare provider can make a shared decision about whether taking Prilosec and breastfeeding is right for you.

 

Prilosec and Breastfeeding: An Overview

Prilosec® (omeprazole) passes through breast milk. Because of the potentially serious side effects that could occur in the nursing infant, the manufacturer of Prilosec recommends that women should not take the medication while breastfeeding. Therefore, make sure to let your healthcare provider know if you are breastfeeding or thinking of breastfeeding.
 

Prilosec and Breastfeeding: What Does the Research Say?

Prilosec passes through breast milk in low amounts in humans. Because there are very few documented and reported cases of women who were breastfeeding and taking Prilosec at the same time, it is not fully known what problems (if any) Prilosec might cause in a nursing infant. If your healthcare provider recommends taking Prilosec while pregnant, be sure to watch for any symptoms or unusual changes in your baby.
 

Talking With Your Healthcare Provider About Prilosec and Breastfeeding

You should talk with your healthcare provider about Prilosec and breastfeeding.
 Everyone's situation is different, and your healthcare provider understands your situation best. After considering what you want and expect (as well as your current health situation), you and your healthcare provider can make a shared decision about Prilosec and breastfeeding in your particular situation.
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;