Can I Breastfeed while Taking an Anti-Seizure Medication?

A common question I get from women with epilepsy is can I breastfeed while taking an anti-seizure medication.  The short answer is yes.  Because of the benefits of breastfeeding, both the American Academy of Neurology as well as the American Academy of Pediatrics advise that you can breastfeed.

The amount of anti-seizure medication being transferred in the breast milk is minimal compared to what the baby was exposed to in utero through the placenta.  Therefore, if you were on an anti-seizure medication while you are pregnant, your baby is being exposed to a much lower level through the breast milk. 

One study looked at the IQs of children exposed to anti-seizure medication in utero and through breast milk and compared them to the IQs of children exposed to anti-seizure medication in utero who were not breastfed.  The children who were breastfed had higher IQs, suggesting that there is benefit to breastfeeding.

Tip: Take your medication after nursing your child at the beginning of the baby’s longest sleep interval.  This will further reduce the exposure of the anti-seizure medication.

Some anti-seizure medications (barbiturates and benzodiazepines) can make your child sleepy if you take them while breast feeding.  Consult with your neurologist and your child’s pediatrician about your breastfeeding plans so you know what to monitor in your baby.

We encourage all mothers with epilepsy to talk with your neurologist and pediatrician to make an informed decision about breastfeeding your child.

-Dr. Jetter