Vicodin and Breastfeeding

Rachel - posted on 04/30/2009

Our personal experience is that using vicodin and breastfeeding didn't affect my first son at all--no extra drowsiness or crankiness, no trouble nursing, etc. I was prescribed it during recovery from a c-section (alternated with motrin). I did not take it as often as the doc said I could--basically just used it as needed to cope with recovery pain so I could take care of the new baby :)

Julia - posted on 04/29/2009

I had a c-section and prescribed vicodin. I took it every couple of hours, and will still take it every once in awhile for menstral cramps. I'm still taking vicodin and breastfeeding and haven't noticed any issues with my lil one (if that's what you're asking about). We had no issues with feeding, but she's always been a good nurser since the very 1st time. This is my experience.....

Nicole - posted on 04/29/2009

In "Medications and Mothers' Milk" by Thomas W. Hale, Ph.D. it classifies Vicodin as a "L3". "L3" is listed as being "moderately safe: There are no controlled studies in breastfeeding women; however, the risk of untoward effects to a breastfed infant is possible or controlled studies show only minimal non-threatening adverse effects. Drugs should be given only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the infant."

It also states that you should "observe closely for sedation, apnea, constipation" in your baby. And that this drug "peaks" in the mother's blood stream at 1.3 hours after ingesting. It is best to not nurse during this period.

It is real important that the prescribing physician who gave you the Vicodin knows that you are breastfeeding. If the medication is perscribed even with that knowledge, then it is best to say that the physician feels the benefits outweigh the risks and I wouldn't worry too much.

My real concern for you is, no pump, baby not accepting bottle, what is going to happen while you are in surgery and recovery???? Not to add more stress to your plate, but I'm sure you have thought of this, too. As a CLC if you need anything please don't hesitate to call me. Do you have enough money to rent a pump??? I think you really need a pump. That is more my concern than the medication (if the doctor knew about the breastfeeding)! You need some help before Tuesday! You poor thing! I'm so sorry this is happening to you. I am going to send you my # and if you can call long distance, please call me!

Hanako - posted on 04/29/2009

Hi Erin,

Here's a small piece of info regarding Vicodin and breastfeeding:

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether this medication is harmful to an unborn baby, but it could cause breathing problems or addiction/withdrawal symptoms in a newborn. Before you take Vicodin, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Acetaminophen and hydrocodone can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.



I think this is something that you need to talk to you healthcare provider about. They may have some sugestions about expressing, timing feeds with medicating etc... but I wouldn't be taking Vicodin and breastfeeding without serious consideration.



Hope this helps



All the best

Hana

Jennifer - posted on 04/29/2009

I am pretty sure I was taking vicodin after my C-section....I took as little as possible though because it can make your baby drowsy and tired, leaving them uninterested in feeding.

Rachel - posted on 04/30/2009

Our personal experience is that using vicodin and breastfeeding didn't affect my first son at all--no extra drowsiness or crankiness, no trouble nursing, etc. I was prescribed it during recovery from a c-section (alternated with motrin). I did not take it as often as the doc said I could--basically just used it as needed to cope with recovery pain so I could take care of the new baby :)

Julia - posted on 04/29/2009

I had a c-section and prescribed vicodin. I took it every couple of hours, and will still take it every once in awhile for menstral cramps. I'm still taking vicodin and breastfeeding and haven't noticed any issues with my lil one (if that's what you're asking about). We had no issues with feeding, but she's always been a good nurser since the very 1st time. This is my experience.....

Hanako - posted on 04/29/2009

Hi Erin,

Here's a small piece of info regarding Vicodin and breastfeeding:

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether this medication is harmful to an unborn baby, but it could cause breathing problems or addiction/withdrawal symptoms in a newborn. Before you take Vicodin, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Acetaminophen and hydrocodone can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.



I think this is something that you need to talk to you healthcare provider about. They may have some sugestions about expressing, timing feeds with medicating etc... but I wouldn't be taking Vicodin and breastfeeding without serious consideration.



Hope this helps



All the best

Hana