Marijuana and Breastfeeding
From Pharmacy Drug Guide
There has been little research conducted in the area of breastfeeding and marijuana use. However, physicians recommend that nursing mothers refrain from cannabis, alcohol, many prescriptions, and all recreational drugs, for as long as they are breastfeeding. This is because any substance consumed by the mother can potentially appear in the breast milk and thus be passed on to the child. There is also evidence to suggest that the mother's ability to produce milk may be affected by marijuana use.[1]
Marijuana, along with drugs like caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol, has been shown to affect the volume, creation, and chemical make-up of breast milk.[2]
 Flickr: tboothhk | |
| Other terms for marijuana | Weed, pot, cannabis, herb, green, smoke, reefer, mota |
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| Manufacturer | Usually farmed by private growers |
| Uses | Medication, recreational use |
| Common side effects | Red eyes, cotton mouth, impaired cognitive function, memory loss |
| Who should not take marijuana | Pregnant and breastfeeding women |
| Disclaimer | The information provided by PharmacyDrugGuide.com is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not take any action based on the information on this page without consulting a physician. |
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About Marijuana
Marijuana is a drug used to get "high," as well as for medical purposes. While it is largely considered an illegal substance in the United States, there are 16 states (and Washington, DC) that permit marijuana to treat various medical conditions. It is still never legal under federal law, even among states that have legalized medical marijuana. All marijuana users and growers are subject to prosecution by the federal government.[3]
Marijuana consists of the dried flowers and leaves of the Cannabis sativa plant. This plant contains concentrated levels of THC, which is the chemical that causes the euphoric feeling. Marijuana is traditionally smoked, which can be done by rolling it into a cigarette (called a joint), or by using an apparatus such as a pipe or a water pipe (bong). Sometimes marijuana is steeped in hot water to make a tea, and it is commonly infused into butter to make baked goods or other edibles.[4]
About Marijuana and Breast Feeding
The THC in marijuana is a fat soluble substance, and heavy marijuana use can lead to a buildup of this chemical in breast milk. Studies in animals have shown changes in the brains of babies exposed to marijuana through their mother's milk. In addition, research has indicated that mothers who smoke marijuana do not produce as much breast milk. Infants who are exposed to "passive smoke," that is, being in the same room where others are smoking marijuana, will also absorb some of the drug.[5]
Experts advise mothers to abstain from marijuana, as well as alcohol, when breast feeding their infants. It is recommended that breast milk be as free from potential toxins and pollutants as possible.[1]
One of the major issues with counseling on breastfeeding and marijuana is the possibility that the risks of formula feeding could possibly outweigh the risks of the drug. Marijuana in breast milk has been shown to cause structural changes in animal studies. However, the effects on human babies are largely unknown, although experts do know that infancy is a critical time in human development. It is difficult to compare the long-term risks of formula feeding to those of marijuana use due to lack of research. In the short term, marijuana in breast milk can cause drowsiness and weakness, and alter feeding habits. However, formula feeding delivers fewer nutrients to babies, and formula-fed infants are more likely to get sick. Also, "stoned" mothers may be less capable of preparing the formula correctly and in a sanitary manner. While mothers are advised to refrain from any marijuana use, there may be some question about whether those who are incapable of quitting should refrain from breastfeeding. Nonetheless, experts will generally tell moms not to breastfeed if they are using.[6]
Breastfeeding Tips
Also See: Medical Marijuana, Marijuana Side Effects, Marijuana and Cancer, Marijuana and Anxiety, Marijuana and Depression, Marijuana and Pain, Marijuana and Weight, Medical Marijuana
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References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 http://www.babycenter.com/404_is-it-safe-for-moms-who-breastfeeding-to-smoke-marijuana_3131.bc
- ↑ http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9849117
- ↑ http://medicalmarijuana.procon.org/view.resource.php?resourceID=000881
- ↑ http://www.webmd.com/mental-health/marijuana-use-and-its-effects
- ↑ http://www.health-e-learning.com/articles/Social_Drugs_and_Breastfeeding.pdf
- ↑ http://www.health-e-learning.com/articles/Social_Drugs_and_Breastfeeding.pdf
