Can You Take Imodium While Breastfeeding?

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By Krystal Duhaney | Updated on Dec 3, 2023
Image for article Can You Take Imodium While Breastfeeding?

It’s generally safe to take Imodium while breastfeeding, but use some caution. 

Imodium, or loperamide1 , is a medication used to slow down digestion and treat diarrhea. According to research, including studies published in the Journal of Human Lactation2 , only small amounts of Imodium are likely to pass into breast milk.

Because of this, organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics say that occasional use of Imodium is generally okay for breastfeeding. However, it's still always a good idea to be cautious. Some reports suggest that, in rare cases, infants might experience side effects like constipation or sedation.

Given these potential issues, it's always a smart move to check with your healthcare provider before taking Imodium or any other medication while breastfeeding.

Pregnant woman holding her stomach on a bed with a plant in the background

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  1. National Library of Medicine"Loperamide"Mar 16, 2021https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501297/.

  2. Tracy M. Hagemann, PharmDView all authors and affiliations"Gastrointestinal Medications and Breastfeeding", vol. 14, no. 3Aug 31, 1998https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/089033449801400321?journalCode=jhla.


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Updated on Dec 3, 2023

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Can You Take Imodium While Breastfeeding?

 Krystal Duhaney Profile Photo
By Krystal Duhaney | Updated on Dec 3, 2023
Image for article Can You Take Imodium While Breastfeeding?

It’s generally safe to take Imodium while breastfeeding, but use some caution. 

Imodium, or loperamide1 , is a medication used to slow down digestion and treat diarrhea. According to research, including studies published in the Journal of Human Lactation2 , only small amounts of Imodium are likely to pass into breast milk.

Because of this, organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics say that occasional use of Imodium is generally okay for breastfeeding. However, it's still always a good idea to be cautious. Some reports suggest that, in rare cases, infants might experience side effects like constipation or sedation.

Given these potential issues, it's always a smart move to check with your healthcare provider before taking Imodium or any other medication while breastfeeding.

Pregnant woman holding her stomach on a bed with a plant in the background

Want evidence-based health & wellness advice for fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum delivered to your inbox?

Your privacy is important to us. By subscribing you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Expectful uses only high-quality sources, including academic research institutions, medical associations, and subject matter experts.

  1. National Library of Medicine"Loperamide"Mar 16, 2021https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501297/.

  2. Tracy M. Hagemann, PharmDView all authors and affiliations"Gastrointestinal Medications and Breastfeeding", vol. 14, no. 3Aug 31, 1998https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/089033449801400321?journalCode=jhla.


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