Pain Medications After A Caesarean: Which Are Safe For Breastfeeding?
by Jaime Warren

Pain medications are very necessary after a Caesarean Section. However, many mothers choose to breastfeed as soon as possible after the operation, posing a critical question. Which pain medications are safe for a breastfeeding mother to take? Below is a list of pain medications (Analgesics) that are most often prescribed:

Azapropazone/Apazone (Rheumox)
Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Butorphanol (Stadol)
Codeine (Tylenol #3, #4)
Colchicine
Fentanyl (Sublimaze)
Halothane (Fluothane)
Ibuprofin (Advil, Nuprin, Motrin)
Indomethacin (Indocin)
Ketorolac (Toradol, Acular)
Lidocaine
Meperidine (Demerol)
Methadone (Dolophine)
Morphine
Naproxen (Anaprox, Naprosyn, Naproxen, Aleve)
Nefopam (Acupan)
Piroxicam (Feldene)
Propoxyphene (Darvocet, Propacet, Darvon)
Secobarbital (Seconal)
Thiopental (Pentothal)
Tolmetin (Tolectin)

These medications have been listed as safe to take during breastfeeding, however it is important to note that some medication may still pass through the breast milk to the baby.

© 2003 by Jaime Warren