Is Cephalexin Safe to Take While Breastfeeding?

Did your doctor prescribe Cephalexin or ldquo;Keflexrdquo; while you were breastfeeding? If so, they likely made a thoughtful decision, considering the potential benefits and weighing them against any possible risks. If you are still uncertain, it's a good idea to consult your local hospital's Lactation Consultant for personalized advice.

Understanding the Safety Rating of Cephalexin

Cephalexin, or ldquo;Keflex,rdquo; is classified as Category B in terms of safety during pregnancy. This rating is considered one of the safer categories given the difficulty and ethical considerations involved in studying medication effects on pregnant women. Category B medications are characterized by the following classifications:

Category A: Generally Acceptable Category B: May be acceptable, with no human studies indicating harm and animal studies showing no harm or only mild issues Category C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks Category D: Use in life-threatening emergencies when no alternatives are available Category X: Do not use in pregnancy, as the risks outweigh the potential benefits

As an antibiotic, Cephalexin is generally well-tolerated during pregnancy. Any theoretical risks should be balanced against the much greater risks of a serious infection if the condition goes untreated. It's important to note that this information is intended as general knowledge and not medical advice. For specific health concerns, please consult your healthcare professional.

Evidence from LactMed

According to the LactMed database, Cephalexin is safe to take while breastfeeding. This database is a valuable resource for healthcare providers and parents alike, providing information on the effects of medications in breastfeeding women and infants.

The LactMed database also notes that while Cephalexin has been shown to be excreted in small amounts in breast milk, the risk to the breastfeeding infant is not significant. Therefore, healthcare providers can reassure breastfeeding mothers that the benefits of taking Cephalexin, when prescribed for an infection, likely outweigh any potential risks to the baby.

Conclusion

While it's always important to discuss any medication concerns with your healthcare provider, the current evidence suggests that Cephalexin is a safe option for breastfeeding mothers. Both the category B classification and the LactMed database support the safe use of Cephalexin in breastfeeding.

Remember, the decision to continue or discontinue breastfeeding while taking any medication should be made in consultation with your healthcare provider, as each case can be unique.