Nature-Throid and Breastfeeding

It appears that Nature-Throid (thyroid USP) and breastfeeding are compatible, even though the medication passes through breast milk. As long as your thyroid hormones are kept at normal levels, there is no reason to expect that Nature-Throid would cause any problems during breastfeeding. Since every woman's situation is different, however, you should talk to your healthcare provider about Nature-Throid and breastfeeding in your particular situation.

 

Nature-Throid and Breastfeeding: An Overview

Like all thyroid hormone medications, Nature-Throid™ (thyroid USP) passes through breast milk in humans, although it does not seem to cause any problems. Even though the drug is usually safe for use during breastfeeding, it is still a good idea to talk with your healthcare provider about taking Nature-Throid if you are breastfeeding or planning to start, since you may need to be monitored more closely.
 

Nature-Throid and Breastfeeding: What Does the Research Say?

Studies have shown that Nature-Throid passes through breast milk, just like natural human thyroid hormones. If your thyroid hormones are kept at normal levels, there is no reason to expect that Nature-Throid would cause any problems during breastfeeding. In fact, women with an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) may have trouble lactating properly unless they are treated, whether with Nature-Throid or other forms of thyroid replacement.
 
Sometimes infants are born with thyroid problems. Only small amounts of Nature-Throid pass through breast milk. This is not enough to treat an underactive thyroid in an infant. Instead, the infant must be treated directly.
 

Talking With Your Healthcare Provider About Nature-Throid and Breastfeeding

You should talk with your healthcare provider about Nature-Throid and breastfeeding. Each woman's situation is different, and you and your healthcare provider understand your situation best. After considering what you want and expect, as well as your current health situation, the two of you can make a shared decision about Nature-Throid and breastfeeding that is right for you. In general, the medication is considered safe for women who are breastfeeding and for their infants.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;