Lidocaine Ointment while Breastfeeding

What is Lidocaine Ointment used for?

Is Lidocaine Ointment usage safe while breastfeeding? If a lactating mother is using it can there be any effect on growth or development of infant?

Lidocaine while Breastfeeding

CAS Number: 137-58-6

Compatible with breastfeeding no matter the multiple ways it can be used: anesthetic, anti-arrhythmic, or anti-epileptic drug. Excreted into breast milk in non-significant amount with no side effects on breastfed infants from treated mothers. As a topical anesthetic (dermatologic, dental-stomatologic, ophtalmotologic and otologic preparations) it has an almost nil systemic absorption. Avoid using it on the nipple, but if necessary do it after the breast feed, wipe it out and rinse with water before the next feed, An euptectic mixture with added Prilocaine (EMLA) is used for dermatologic anesthesia. There is an increased risk of Methemoglobinemia when applied on large surfaces or taken by mouth. Intrapartum anesthesia may delay the onset of phase II of Lactogenesis or milk coming-in. The American Academy of Pediatrics rates it usually compatible with Breastfeeding.

Lidocaine while Breastfeeding

CAS Number: 137-58-6

Lidocaine concentrations in milk during continuous IV infusion, epidural administration and in high doses as a local anesthetic are low and the lidocaine is poorly absorbed by the infant. Lidocaine is not expected to cause any adverse effects in breastfed infants. No special precautions are required.[1][2][3] Lidocaine labor and delivery with other anesthetics and analgesics has been reported by some to interfere with breastfeeding. However, this assessment is controversial and complex because of the many different combinations of drugs, dosages and patient populations studied as well as the variety of techniques used and deficient design of many of the studies. Overall it appears that with good breastfeeding support epidural lidocaine with or without fentanyl or one of its derivatives has little or no adverse effect on breastfeeding success.[4][5][6][7][8] Labor pain medication may delay the onset of lactation.

What if I already have used Lidocaine Ointment?

I am nursing mother and my doctor has suggested me to use Lidocaine Ointment, is it safe?

If I am using Lidocaine Ointment, will my baby need extra monitoring?

Who can I talk to if I have questions about usage of Lidocaine Ointment in breastfeeding?