Topamax and Breastfeeding

If you are taking Topamax and breastfeeding at the same time, the medicine may pass through your breast milk to the nursing baby in low amounts. Since side effects such as loss of appetite, weight loss, and infections have been reported in young children taking Topamax, healthcare providers recommend watching for these potential problems in nursing babies.

 

Topamax and Breastfeeding: An Overview

Topamax® (topiramate) is passed through breast milk. Because of the potentially serious side effects that could occur in the nursing infant, the manufacturer of Topamax recommends that healthcare providers look at the possible risks and benefits before recommending Topamax while breastfeeding. Therefore, if you are breastfeeding or thinking of breastfeeding, make sure to let your healthcare provider know.
 

Topamax and Breastfeeding: What Does the Research Say?

Topamax is passed through breast milk in relatively low amounts. In a few very small studies of taking Topamax during breastfeeding, no problems were seen in the infant. When Topamax is used in children as young as two years old, common side effects include drowsiness, confusion, aggressiveness, infections, appetite loss, and weight loss. If your healthcare provider recommends taking Topamax while breastfeeding, be sure to watch for these side effects in your infant.
 

Talking With Your Healthcare Provider About Topamax and Breastfeeding

You should talk with your healthcare provider about Topamax and breastfeeding. This is because everyone's situation is different, and your healthcare provider understands your situation best. Based on what you want and expect (and your current health situation), you and your healthcare provider can make a shared decision about Topamax and breastfeeding in your particular situation.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;