Concerta and breastfeeding mom

Abbey6 · 09-10-2003, 01:34 PM

Hi, I am 38 and have just been diagnosed with ADD. My dr. has prescribed Concerta. He knows I am breastfeeding my 8 month old. He looked up the info in his pdr and it says there have been no studies. He started me on 27mg in the a.m. and told me to keep a close eye on my dd. I'm wondering if anyone has any info on breastfeeding while taking Concerta. Thank you!

Jennita · 09-10-2003, 03:13 PM

If there have been no studies, what makes him think it's safe for your baby? Does he know the effects it may have on your baby's brain or nervous system? Can he sign a statement guarantee that your baby will not be harmed mentally or physically?

It could effect the baby's brain chemicals and cause an imbalance...maybe lead to mood problems, drug need or nervous system disorders....

..I don't know if it will cause any of that, but using logic one must realize any strong pharmaceutical psychoactive drug passed to an infant thru breastmilk may have the potential to cause some developmental(mental or physical) harm.

[This message has been edited by Jennita (edited 09-10-2003).]

rainonwindow · 09-10-2003, 10:51 PM

I believe that medications can be very beneficial for people with ADD and ADHD. It has certainly been for my family BUT........

I would not take any medications while I am breastfeeding my baby. I breastfed my son until he was 13 months and stopped because I needed to take a medication. I breastfed my daughter for 2 months and stopped because I needed to take a medication.

Abbey6 · 09-10-2003, 11:45 PM

you've both made some valid points. I've done some searching and cannot find anything conclusive on the subject.

I think I only have two choices. Either wean her and take the meds now or wait until she weans herself which I'm sure won't be for at least several more months. I've lived with ADD most of my life without meds so I guess a few more months won't hurt.

Thank you for your input. I appreciate it.

dice · 09-11-2003, 01:57 AM

I agree. Why rish it? Do you really need Concerta that badly to risk any affects on your baby? Go back to that doctor of yours and get off the drug.