Can You Take Prednisone While Breastfeeding?

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

Prednisone is generally considered safe for use during breastfeeding.

Based on the information available, the amounts of prednisone present in breast milk are very low 1 . In fact, no adverse effects have been observed in breastfed infants from mothers who have used any corticosteroid during breastfeeding, including prednisone. 

Despite some suggestions to avoid breastfeeding for four hours after a dose, this isn’t typically necessary due to the low concentrations of prednisone in milk. That being said, high doses of prednisone might occasionally lead to a temporary decrease in milk supply. 

As always, it's crucial to discuss any medication use with your healthcare provider to ensure it's suitable for both you and your baby.

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

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  1. "Prednisone"Nov 30, 2022https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501077/.


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Updated on Dec 3, 2023

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Can You Take Prednisone While Breastfeeding?

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

Prednisone is generally considered safe for use during breastfeeding.

Based on the information available, the amounts of prednisone present in breast milk are very low 1 . In fact, no adverse effects have been observed in breastfed infants from mothers who have used any corticosteroid during breastfeeding, including prednisone. 

Despite some suggestions to avoid breastfeeding for four hours after a dose, this isn’t typically necessary due to the low concentrations of prednisone in milk. That being said, high doses of prednisone might occasionally lead to a temporary decrease in milk supply. 

As always, it's crucial to discuss any medication use with your healthcare provider to ensure it's suitable for both you and your baby.

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. "Prednisone"Nov 30, 2022https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501077/.


Share via