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ANALGESICS (PAIN RELIEVERS)
Is it okay to take medication for fever and aches and pains while breastfeeding?
Yes, nearly all pain and fever-relieving medications are safe. Acetaminophen (Tylenol and other brands) is the safest medication for
relieving pain and fever, since only a tiny amount enters the breastmilk. Ibuprofen is also considered safe. Narcotic analgesics (codeine, Demerol, and
morphine) are safe to take while
breastfeeding, yet they should be used with caution. Of the three, morphine has been shown to
have the least effect on infants. Breathing difficulties have been reported in newborns whose
mothers received codeine-containing analgesics after delivery, and some
babies may become sleepy and less eager to nurse following Demerol injections in their mothers.
While occasional use of narcotic pain relievers is acceptable during breastfeeding, prolonged use
is considered unsafe. On the other hand, consider the fact that pain suppresses lactation. It is
always possible to work out an analgesic regimen that is both effective for mother and safe for
baby.
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