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Prednisone taper

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  • Prednisone taper

    I have ulcerative colitis and am suffering from a postpartum flare up. My daughter is 3 weeks old and my GI has suggested a prednisone taper to clear the inflammation. She has suggested starting at 40mg and decreasing by 5mg every 5 days for a total tapering schedule of 6 weeks. Is it safe to continue breastfeeding my daughter while on this prednisone taper? Are there any precautions I should be taking?

    Thanks in advance for any feedback!


  • #2
    Christine7385,

    The main concern with steroids are when they are taken at high doses for prolonged periods of time. The amount that transfers into breast milk is 1.8-5.3% of your dose. This tapering dose should be ok. The half-life of prednisone is 2-3 hours so take the medication right after nursing so you have a few hours before nursing again. We do recommend waiting 4 hours after a dose greater than 40mg to reduce the exposure of this medication. Be aware that the prednisone may decrease your milk supply some while taking it.

    Sandra Lovato R.N.
    InfantRisk Center

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