need help....zoloft while breastfeeding, is it safe?

My SIL is getting ready to give birth in April with her third child. She has never bf before and would really like to try this time around. She suffered from ppd with both her sons. She will most likely have to go on Zoloft again after this baby and is trying to find out if it is safe to bf while on it. Her ob said to talk to the ped and the ped has said that it is a L2 drug and to possibly supplement. She's now a little worried and not sure what to do. Anyone with experience in this would be great. I'm not sure what to tell her and she really is worried. Thanks!

Re: need help....zoloft while breastfeeding, is it safe?

Talk with a pediatrician about what it can potentially do. I know she asked, but be specific. Also, check out kellymom.com

That website lists all the safe drugs for breastfeeding.

Message edited 2/7/2008 10:51:36 AM.

Re: need help....zoloft while breastfeeding, is it safe?

all SSRIs are found in breastmilk in very small quantities. there is no evidence that the levels found in breastmilk are unsafe to babies.

i am a psychiatrist and i typically encourage most of my patients with ppd to breastfeed their babies even while on SSRIs. the hormones involved with breastfeeding are actually protective against ppd. plus, breastfeeding encourages a special bond between mother and baby (since she is the only one with the boobs!), which in itself is protective against ppd.

having said that, choosing to breastfeed while on an antidepressant is a very personal choice that needs to be made by your SIL in conjunction with the psychiatrist who would be prescribing the meds.