Methylphenidate, sold in several forms including Ritalin and Concerta, is a stimulant prescription drug used to treat ADHD and other disorders. Its off-label uses may even include weight loss. While it is used to treat children as well as adults, it is not recommended for infants.
How Methylphenidate Works
Doctors don't fully understand how methylphenidate acts on humans, but they believe that it activates the brain's arousal system, making it easier to pay attention and take an interest in the world around you.
Methylphenidate and Breastfeeding
Methylphenidate does pass through breast milk. It takes up to four days to eliminate methylphenidate from your system, and all breast milk produced during those four days will be contaminated, though the level of drug after a day will probably be trace.
Safety in Infants
Methylphenidate has been shown to retard growth in children when used over time. It can also cause cardiovascular disorders and may damage normal brain development.
Recommendations
Infants should not be exposed to methylphenidate in any level or in any form. Because breast milk levels will vary widely, it is especially important that breast milk be kept clear of this drug.
Alternatives
A nursing mother should ask her doctor about safer alternatives to methylphenidate. As a last resort, stop feeding an infant breast milk and switch to formula if necessary.
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