Prednisone and Breastfeeding

If you are breastfeeding while taking prednisone, you should watch for any side effects in your nursing infant. This medication passes through breast milk, and it could cause serious side effects in a breastfeeding child. Your healthcare provider will consider the benefits to you and the risks to your child before making a recommendation in your particular situation.

Prednisone Drug Information

Can I Take Prednisone While Breastfeeding?

Prednisone passes through breast milk. Because of the potentially serious side effects that could occur in the nursing infant, the manufacturers recommend that healthcare providers consider the benefits and risks of using the drug while breastfeeding before prescribing it to a breastfeeding woman.

Therefore, if you have been prescribed prednisone and are breastfeeding or are considering it, make sure to let your healthcare provider know.

What Does the Research Say?

Prednisone passes through breast milk in very low amounts. Many healthcare providers consider the medication to be safe for breastfeeding women, especially if taken at lower dosages. If your healthcare provider recommends taking prednisone while breastfeeding, be sure to watch for any side effects in your child.

Talking With Your Healthcare Provider About Breastfeeding and Prednisone

You should talk with your healthcare provider about breastfeeding and prednisone use. 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, the two of you can make a shared decision that is right for you.