Oxazepam and Breastfeeding

It is important to let your healthcare provider know (prior to taking oxazepam) if you are breastfeeding or thinking of breastfeeding. This is because oxazepam has been shown to pass through breast milk in humans, and the drug may potentially cause problems -- such as drowsiness, feeding problems, and weight loss -- in breastfed infants. If you're using oxazepam and breastfeeding at the same time, make sure to watch for these or any other side effects in your nursing child.

 

An Overview of Oxazepam and Breastfeeding

Oxazepam (Serax®) passes through breast milk and may cause problems in a breastfed infant. Therefore, if you are taking oxazepam and breastfeeding (or thinking of breastfeeding), make sure to let your healthcare provider know.
 

What Does the Research Say About Oxazepam and Breastfeeding?

In previous studies, oxazepam was shown to pass through breast milk in humans. Oxazepam is part of a group of medications known as benzodiazepines. As with all benzodiazepines, oxazepam can cause drowsiness and other problems (see Side Effects of Oxazepam), and breastfed infants may also experience such side effects. Benzodiazepines can cause drowsiness, feeding problems, weight loss, and other problems in breastfed infants. If your healthcare provider recommends taking oxazepam while breastfeeding, be sure to watch for any side effects in your child.
 
Out of all of the benzodiazepine medications, oxazepam may be one of the better choices for use in breastfeeding women. It is passed through breast milk in low amounts, and it is relatively short-acting. If it is absolutely necessary to use a benzodiazepine during breastfeeding, oxazepam may be a reasonable choice.
 

Talking With Your Healthcare Provider About Oxazepam and Breastfeeding

You should talk with your healthcare provider about oxazepam and breastfeeding. 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, you and your healthcare provider can make a shared decision about oxazepam and breastfeeding for your particular situation.
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;