Divalproex Sodium Capsule while Breastfeeding
What is Divalproex Sodium Capsule used for?
I am breastfeeding mother and I am using Divalproex Sodium Capsule. Can it have any bad effect on my kid? Shall I search for better alternative?
8.3 Nursing Mothers Valproate is excreted in human milk. Caution should be exercised when valproate is administered to a nursing woman.
Divalproex Sodium Capsule Breastfeeding Analsys
Valproic acid while Breastfeeding
SafeCAS Number: 99-66-1
It is excreted in breast milk in clinically non-significant amount without problems in the short or long term in infants whose mothers were treated. Plasma levels of these infants were undetectable or very low. Cognitive development did not suffer any alteration. An infant was presented with thrombocytopenic purpura and anemia who recovered after removing valproate in the mother. However, doubts were raised on whether it was instead a post-viral reaction that led to idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura. The administration of valproic acid does not affect prolactin levels. The American Academy of Pediatrics rates it as usual compatible with breastfeeding medication.WHO List of Essential Medicines 2002: compatible with breastfeeding.
Divalproex Sodium Capsule Breastfeeding Analsys - 2
Valproic acid while Breastfeeding
CAS Number: 99-66-1
Breastfeeding during valproic acid monotherapy does not appear to adversely affect infant growth or development, and breastfed infants had higher IQs and enhanced verbal abilities than nonbreastfed infants at 6 years of age in one study.[1] If valproic acid is required by the mother, it is not necessarily a reason to discontinue breastfeeding. Because of the low levels of valproic acid in breastmilk and infant serum, no definite adverse reactions to valproic acid during breastfeeding have been reported. Theoretically, breastfed infants are at risk for valproic acid-induced hepatotoxicity, so infants should be monitored for jaundice and other signs of liver damage during maternal therapy. A questionable case of thrombocytopenia has been reported, so monitor the infant for unusual bruising or bleeding. One author recommends monitoring infant serum valproate levels, platelets and liver enzymes during therapy.[1] Combination therapy with sedating anticonvulsants or psychotropics may result in infant sedation or withdrawal reactions.
What should I do if already breastfed my kid after using Divalproex Sodium Capsule?
As usage of Divalproex Sodium Capsule is mostly safe while breastfeeding hence there should not be any concern. In case of any change in behavior or health of your baby you should inform your health care provider about usage of Divalproex Sodium Capsule else no further action is required.
I am nursing mother and my doctor has suggested me to use Divalproex Sodium Capsule, is it safe?
Usage of Divalproex Sodium Capsule is safe for nursing mothers and baby, No worries.
If I am using Divalproex Sodium Capsule, will my baby need extra monitoring?
No
Who can I talk to if I have questions about usage of Divalproex Sodium Capsule in breastfeeding?
US
National Womens Health and Breastfeeding Helpline: 800-994-9662 (TDD 888-220-5446) 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday
UK
National Breastfeeding Helpline: 0300-100-0212 9.30am to 9.30pm, daily
Association of Breastfeeding Mothers: 0300-330-5453
La Leche League: 0345-120-2918
The Breastfeeding Network supporter line in Bengali and Sylheti: 0300-456-2421
National Childbirth Trust (NCT): 0300-330-0700
Australia
National Breastfeeding Helpline: 1800-686-268 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Canada
Telehealth Ontario for breastfeeding: 1-866-797-0000 24 hours a day, 7 days a week