Is It Safe for My Baby? - Methadone

Risks During Pregnancy

• Methadone does not cause birth defects and is safe to use while pregnant.
• Methadone is safer in pregnancy than illicit opioid use and is the treatment of choice for heroin users.
• Some babies will have withdrawal symptoms after birth, but these can be managed with the help of your doctor.

Recommendations During Pregnancy

• Check with your doctor about starting and/or continuing methadone.
• Methadone dose requirements may change during pregnancy and need to be closely monitored.

Risks During Breastfeeding

• Methadone levels in breast milk are small, but will not necessarily prevent the baby from going through withdrawal. Some babies will experience withdrawal after birth, but this can be managed with the help of your doctor.
• Methadone reaches maximum level in breast milk between two to four hours after taking a dose.

Recommendations During Breastfeeding

• The benefits of breastfeeding outweigh the risk of methadone being passed on to the baby.
• It may not be a possibility, but ask your doctor if you can time your dose with breastfeeding times.
• Avoid breastfeeding two to four hours after taking a dose, when possible.

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