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Breastfeeding while on Asacol

Mon, February 02, 2009 5:50 PM

I am going to be having a baby in about 3 months and would really like to breastfeed. My doctors still have not been able to give me a clear yes or no answer on whether or not I will be able to breastfeed while taking Asacol. For those of you who have had babies and were taking Asacol at the same time, what did you do? Thanks so much for the input!

l22eagles
Joined Feb 2, 2009

Sat, February 07, 2009 12:24 AM

Reply posted for l22eagles.

First off, congratulations on your upcoming addition!

I was on Asacol for UC during both of my pregnancies as my OB/GYN said the risk was low. I also breastfed my oldest while on Asacol, and she had no problems with it. However, about a month into breastfeeding our twins, I read that Asacol was released into breastmilk and I immediately quit taking my meds. (Stupid, I know!) Although my OB/GYN said it was a class "B" medication and that it was considered safe to do, I didn't like the feeling that something could happen down the line because of it. It turned out that I had no symptoms during the entire time I was breastfeeding, even after quitting the Asacol. I am in no way advocating quitting your meds though! You need to be healthy to take care of your baby. If you are really worried about it, I would just go the formula route.

shygrlshorty
Joined Feb 6, 2009

Wed, February 04, 2009 1:00 AM

Reply posted for l22eagles.

YOu might contact the LaLeche league or check out kellymom on the internet- they might have some info. Also your pediatrition should have a list of meds and their risk levels.

asohn
Joined Dec 22, 2008

Tue, February 03, 2009 1:00 AM

Reply posted for l22eagles.

I do not have direct experience using Asacol while breastfeeding. I was not diagnosed until after my sons were born. However, as my doctor explains it, the mesalamine in Asacol does not release until it is in the lower instestine. Then only 25 % of it is absorbed -- the rest just coats the instestinal tract. So it would be a very small amount that would get into your bloodstream. I don't know if the pharmacist could better answer your question.

Just recently on the part of this CCFA community forum for NEWLY DIAGNOSED, someone mentioned that there are pthalates in mesalamine (Asacol). It is in the coating. This is the plastic additive in waterbottles/baby bottles/food containers that there is a lot of controversery about right now. I am trying to find out more about that aspect -- since my 14 year old son is taking 9 Asacol a day, as well as I am taking 6 a day. Sorry if this adds to your worry but maybe another mesalamine could be helpful for you during your breastfeeding months.

Best wishes for you and your baby.

fushiastarz
Joined Sep 5, 2008

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