Can You Take Oxycodone While Breastfeeding?

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

Yes, you can take oxycodone while breastfeeding, but it's important to be aware that this isn't a decision to be taken lightly due to potential risks for your baby. Infants can experience drowsiness and severe central nervous system depression from maternal use of oxycodone. Newborns can be especially sensitive to even small doses of narcotic analgesics.

It's usually recommended to try non-narcotic analgesics for pain control once lactation begins. If oxycodone is chosen, a maximum daily dosage of 30 mg for two to three days is advised 1 , but some medical professionals recommend avoiding oxycodone completely during breastfeeding.

It’s crucial to monitor your baby for signs of drowsiness, weight gain, and developmental milestones. Should your baby show signs of excessive sleepiness, difficulty breastfeeding, breathing difficulties, or limpness, seek medical help immediately. While oxycodone use is possible while breastfeeding, other pain management options are usually preferred.

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

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  1. National Library of Medicine"Oxycodone"Apr 15, 2023https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501245/.


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Updated on Dec 3, 2023

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Can You Take Oxycodone While Breastfeeding?

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

Yes, you can take oxycodone while breastfeeding, but it's important to be aware that this isn't a decision to be taken lightly due to potential risks for your baby. Infants can experience drowsiness and severe central nervous system depression from maternal use of oxycodone. Newborns can be especially sensitive to even small doses of narcotic analgesics.

It's usually recommended to try non-narcotic analgesics for pain control once lactation begins. If oxycodone is chosen, a maximum daily dosage of 30 mg for two to three days is advised 1 , but some medical professionals recommend avoiding oxycodone completely during breastfeeding.

It’s crucial to monitor your baby for signs of drowsiness, weight gain, and developmental milestones. Should your baby show signs of excessive sleepiness, difficulty breastfeeding, breathing difficulties, or limpness, seek medical help immediately. While oxycodone use is possible while breastfeeding, other pain management options are usually preferred.

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"Oxycodone"Apr 15, 2023https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501245/.


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