Macular Degeneration while Breastfeeding

What is Macular Degeneration used for?

Is Macular Degeneration usage safe while breastfeeding? If a lactating mother is using it can there be any effect on growth or development of infant?

Aconitum napellus while Breastfeeding

The flowers and roots and leaves of this herbaceous plant are used. It contains sesquiterpene lactones, essential oil, flavonoids and traces of pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Topical use on whole skin. Indications in traditional medicine without evidence of its effectiveness: topical anti-inflammatory in bruises, sprains and localized muscle pain (EMA 2014). Do not apply to damaged skin It is very toxic orally (Anderson 2017), having described gastroenteritis, cardiac arrhythmia, neurological problems and death (WHO 2007 p.77, nal 2001) in people who took it and a case of severe hemolytic anemia in 9-day-old newborn whose mother was taking arnica infusion (Miller 2009). At the date of the last update, we did not find published data on its excretion in breast milk. The small dose and poor plasma absorption of most topical dermatological preparations make it unlikely that a significant amount will pass into breast milk. Do not apply on the breast so that the infant does not ingest it, or in large areas or for prolonged periods to avoid systemic absorption. Hands should be washed after applying arnica to avoid possible contact with the infants mouth.

Gold while Breastfeeding

CAS Number: 7440-57-5

One case of facial edema that was barely related to this drug has been described. It has an extremely long half-life span.

Atropa belladonna while Breastfeeding

CAS Number: 8007-93-0

In herbal medicine the leaves of this plant that contains numerous alkaloids are used: l-hyoscyamine and atropine, scopolamine or hyoscine and, all of them potentially high toxic.Traditionally used with poor clinical evidence based on trials as anti-asthmatic, for common colds and intestinal spasms. At latest update no published data on excretion into breast milk were found. With anticholinergic and antimuscarinic properties that may reduce milk production: if necessary take as low dose as possible and avoid long-term treatment if decreasing milk production is observed.Serious side effects (tachycardia, thirst, fever, mydriasis, seizures, coma), especially in infants and newborns (Caksen 2003 Laffargue 2011, Glatstein 2014, Rodríguez-González 2014).There have been cases of gangrene when applied to the chest (Wani 2011). Belladonna may be included in association with other “over the counter" medications of doubtful effectiveness or safety. Overall drug associations are not recommended. Cautions when taking herbal teas:1. Make sure it is obtained from a reliable source: reportedly, poisonings have occurred due to confusion after using another plant with toxic effects (Hsu 1995), some others contain heavy metals that may cause poisoning and others may cause food poisoning due to contamination with bacteria or fungi.2. Do not take it excessively. "Natural" products are not always good in any amount: plants contain active substances from which are made many compounds of our traditional pharmacopoeia that can cause poisoning if consumed in exaggerated quantities or for long periods.

Hamamelis virginiana root bark/stem bark while Breastfeeding

CAS Number: 68916-39-2

Leaves of the plant and sometimes bark also are used. It contains tannins, pro anthocyanidins and flavonic heterosides (quercitrin, isoquercitrin). Venous-tonic and anti-inflammatory properties have not been well established. The Commission E of the German Ministry of Health authorizes its use locally and by suppositories.

Mercury while Breastfeeding

CAS Number: 7439-97-6

Environmental pollutant that is used for manufacturation of batteries, fungicidal products, dental amalgam, and contaminated fish. Most of mercury present in breast milk does it as an inorganic substance which is almost non-absorbable. Breastfeeding should be discontinued whenever a mother is contaminated or intoxicated. It may be a source of neurological troubles. Benefits of breastfeeding are largely more important than risk related to the presence of mild level environment pollutants in human milk, in many instances, they are at lower content than those found in cow’s milk or other foods. (Codex alimentarius FAO-WHO).

Lead while Breastfeeding

CAS Number: 7439-92-1

It is an environmental contaminant. As a heavy metal it is found in excess in products like paintings, fuel and metal industry. Certain make-ups, infusion herbals, meat from chased animals and ceramic made pottery may increase the risk of exposure. It can be stored in soft tissues for one month and in bones for decades. Removing of lead from bones occurs during pregnancy and lactation leading to an increase in the serum many years after exposure. It can cause cardiovascular and respiratory toxicity. More intensively it affects infants and children it may cause neurologic damage. Maximal accepted levels by international agencies like WHO, CDC, EFSA – even though a 0 level is desirable – are: 10 mcg/L in water, 5 mcg/L in breast milk and an ingestion of 2.5 mcg/k/d for infants less of 6 months of age. Absorption through the lungs is 50% and through the gut is less than 10%. In blood of unexposed persons serum levels should not be higher than 10 mcg/dL. Working mothers at fertile age showing a lead serum level higher than 30 mcg/dL should be removed from work place. Working pregnant or nursing women should be removed from places with high risk of toxin exposition (Regulated by EU Council Law/85/ from 19.10.1992). Mothers should not breastfeed if they are found to be intoxicated or contaminated. Same recommendation is suitable for mothers who undergo a chelating treatment (since lead is removed from bones and let free). Blood and breast milk testing is highly recommended to have lead level measured. Mothers should avoid nursing whenever lead level is higher than 16 mcg/L in the milk or 16 mcg/dL in the serum. (Lead levels in the milk are usually 10% of those in the serum). Benefits of breastfeeding widely overcome those issues related to the presence of low level environmental contaminants in human milk that in many instances are lower than those present in cow’s milk based products and other food. (Codex alimentarius FAO-WHO). Published papers from studies done on this matter have shown higher lead levels contained in powdered artificial milks than in human milk.

Euphrasia stricta while Breastfeeding

CAS Number: 790302-50-0

Aerial summits are used. It contains galic tannins, phenol-carboxylic acids, flavonoids and iridoid heterosides. The Commission E of German Ministry of Health does not support the traditional use as anti-diarrhea and eye anti-inflammatory agent.

Barium carbonate while Breastfeeding

CAS Number: 7727-43-7

Because barium sulfate is not absorbed after oral or rectal administration, it will not enter the milk, reach the bloodstream of the infant or cause any adverse effects in breastfed infants. No special precautions are required.

Atropa belladonna while Breastfeeding

CAS Number: 8007-93-0

Belladonna (Atropa belladonna) contains anticholinergic alkaloids such as atropine and scopolamine. Belladonna has been used in the past for headache, airway obstruction, and irritable bowel syndrome among others, but its use has been supplanted by more specific and less toxic compounds. Long-term use of belladonna might reduce milk production by reducing serum prolactin.[1] Application of belladonna paste to the nipple to reduce milk secretion during lactation is an extremely old use.[2] However, it is still used this way in rural India for treating breast abscesses and may have contributed to cases of breast gangrene.[3] Because of the narrow therapeutic index and variable potency of plant-based (i.e., nonstandardized) belladonna, it should be avoided orally and topically during lactation. Homeopathic products are not likely to interfere with breastfeeding or cause toxicity. Dietary supplements do not require extensive pre-marketing approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Manufacturers are responsible to ensure the safety, but do not need to the safety and effectiveness of dietary supplements before they are marketed. Dietary supplements may contain multiple ingredients, and differences are often found between labeled and actual ingredients or their amounts. A manufacturer may contract with an independent organization to verify the quality of a product or its ingredients, but that does certify the safety or effectiveness of a product. Because of the above issues, clinical testing results on one product may not be applicable to other products. More detailed information #about dietary supplements# is available elsewhere on the LactMed Web site.

Pulsatilla vulgaris while Breastfeeding

Pulsatilla (Anemone pulsatilla and other related species) contains ranunculin, protoanemonin, and anemonin as well as triterpene saponins and flavonoids. The fresh plant is extremely irritating to the skin, gastrointestinal tract and mucous membranes. Allergic reactions have been reported to pulsatilla. Homeopathic preparations of pulsatilla are reportedly used for sore nipples and mastitis,[1] to reduce an overabundant milk supply,[2] or to increase milk supply.[3] Galactogogues should never replace evaluation and counseling on modifiable factors that affect milk production.[4] No scientifically valid clinical trials support either of these uses. Because of a lack of information, other agents may be preferred in nursing mothers. Dietary supplements do not require extensive pre-marketing approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Manufacturers are responsible to ensure the safety, but do not need to the safety and effectiveness of dietary supplements before they are marketed. Dietary supplements may contain multiple ingredients, and differences are often found between labeled and actual ingredients or their amounts. A manufacturer may contract with an independent organization to verify the quality of a product or its ingredients, but that does certify the safety or effectiveness of a product. Because of the above issues, clinical testing results on one product may not be applicable to other products. More detailed

Gelsemium sempervirens root and Breastfeeding

All parts of the false jasmine usually contain toxic alkaloids. Eating just one flower has reportedly been lethal to children. The plant can also cause skin allergies in some people and it is possible that the plant toxins can be absorbed through the skin, especially if there are cuts. It�s not recommended to use false jasmine while breastfeeding. It is acceptable in homeopathic preparation.

Phosphorus and Breastfeeding

Next to calcium, phosphorus is the most abundant mineral in the body, making up about 1% of total body weight. Calcium, which gives strength to bones and teeth, needs to be combined with another mineral, such as phosphorous, to become stabilized before it can be effective.

Phosphorus also helps to release energy from food as it plays an important role in the metabolism of carbohydrate, fat and protein. Phosphorus is naturally found in many food sources and phosphorus supplementation while breastfeeding is mostly safe.

You can easily get all the phosphorus you need from a well-balanced diet (even though most prenatal vitamins dont contain phosphorus). For example, 2 cup of yogurt provides nearly all your phosphorus for the day.

Pulsatilla vulgaris and Breastfeeding

Toxicodendron pubescens leaf and Breastfeeding

Poison ivy rash is caused by contact with poison ivy, a plant that grows almost everywhere in the United States. The sap of the poison ivy plant, also known as Toxicodendron radicans, contains oil called urushiol. This is the irritant that causes an allergic reaction and rash.

You dont even have to come in direct contact with the plant to have a reaction. The oil can linger on your gardening equipment, golf clubs, or even your shoes. Brushing against the plant � or anything thats touched it � can result in skin irritation, pain, and itching.

Poison ivy is not contagious. It cannot spread from person to person. It can, however, be spread in a few other scenarios. For example, a pet that encounters poison ivy leaves can carry the urushiol oil in its fur. When you touch the animal, you may pick up the oil and develop a rash. Clothing fibers can also spread poison ivys oil. If you touch poison ivy with a pair of pants or shirt and do not wash it after contact is made, you could develop another rash if you touch the clothing. You can also spread the oil to another person, if they come into contact with clothes that have touched poison ivy. A poison ivy rash cannot spread across your body either. If you come into contact with poison ivy that is burning, you may inhale plant compounds. This can lead to irritation in the lungs, airways, and eyes.

Poison ivy rash doesnt pose a serious risk to a pregnant woman or a developing baby. Your baby can get the rash only from touching something with the oil on it. And the liquid in the blisters doesnt contain urushiol, so the rash cant be spread by scratching or popping them. If you notice a new patch of rash on your baby a few days after the first one appears, its not because the rash has spread. If you have poison ivy it should not affect the milk and health of breastfed baby.

Homeopathic preparations of Poison ivy are used to treat pain, rheumatoid arthritis, menstrual period problems, swelling, and itchy skin disorders. Due to extreme dilution of poison ivy in homeopathic medicines its mostly safe in breastfeeding.

What if I already have used Macular Degeneration?

I am nursing mother and my doctor has suggested me to use Macular Degeneration, is it safe?

If I am using Macular Degeneration, will my baby need extra monitoring?

Who can I talk to if I have questions about usage of Macular Degeneration in breastfeeding?