breastfeeding and methylphenidate

[silvy]

I have ADHD and I would like to start with my medication. but I'm still breastfeeding. My son is 9 months and do not really want to stop yet. just can not find or can be used together. in the Netherlands , there is not very much is known about the effects on children during breastfeeding.

[admin-james]

Hi, thanks for your post.

We have a discussion of ADHD medications on our other website:
http://mommymeds.com/content/adhd

Please post again or call us at the InfantRisk Center if this has not completely answered your question.*(806)352-2519

-James Abbey, MD

[silvy]

I read that it can coexist. but is there really a scientific research available that I can show my doctor. and there must be a minimum time between taking the medication and give the feeding. I get 3 times 20mg ritalin

[admin-james]

Here are some sources that describe how much Ritalin gets into breastmilk. You doctor should be able to see that it is safe based on this information:

1. Hackett LP, Ilett KF, Kristensen JH, Kohan R, Hale TW. Infant dose and safety of breastfeeding for dexamphetamine and methylphenidate in mothers with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: 40. 2005;27(2):220-221
2. Hackett LP, Kristensen JH, Hale TW, Paterson R, Ilett KF. Methylphenidate and breast-feeding. The Annals of pharmacotherapy. Oct 2006;40(10):1890-1891
3. Spigset O, Brede WR, Zahlsen K. Excretion of methylphenidate in breast milk. The American journal of psychiatry. Feb 2007;164(2):348

[silvy]

and there is to add a certain amount of time between the taking of the medication and lactation

[admin-james]

No, the half-life of these medications is too long to schedule around. Breastfeed as normal, but try to make at least one session of the day just before you take your dose.