Fluoxetine and breastfeeding, is it ok?

[snowqueenrollo]

I've been to the GP this morning as I'm tipping over into depression. He's prescribed me Fluoxetine 20mg a day, but the leaflet says not for breastfeeding mothers. DS is 9 months.

Anyone else taking it or can reassure me (and DH who is not sure) that it's fine. I don't want to take it if it's not.

I took it whilst breastfeeding, but that was a while ago. The best people for you to call would be the Breastfeeding Network Drugs Line, they will be able to provide you with the best up to date information :) There are several antidepressants you can take whilst breastfeeding, and don't be afraid of going back to the GP if this one doesn't work out.

Feel better soon. x

It appears to be safe for older babies

www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/dibm/anti%20depressants%20_and_Breastfeeding_Jan_2013-%20wj.pdf

If you want to discuss this with an expert, you can contact the breastfeeding network.
www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/drugs-in-breastmilk.html

I know a couple of people who BF on Fluoxetine with no ill effects, just as anecdata. I fed DS1 for over a year on Sertraline. The general info I got at the time was that Sertraline was best for BF young babies, and once past 3 months or so all the SSRIs were pretty much fine.

Agree that you should contact the BFN for reassurance and feel better soon - depression is horrible.

I bf both my DS on fluoxetine - was told by GP, Psychiatrist etc that it was fine - 10 years on they are ok. Happy mummy means happy baby

thank you all. I e-mailed the BFN and got a lovely response from them.

Started taking them yesterday so just waiting it out to feel better now.