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Is It Safe for My Baby? - Sedatives/Sleeping Pills

(previously known as tranquillizers; e.g., zopiclone (Imovane®) and benzodiazepines such as lorazepam (Ativan®), diazepam (Valium®) and clonazepam (Rivotril®))

Risks During Pregnancy

  • Although the risk is small, some benzodiazepines have been associated with birth defects if used in the first trimester (first three months of pregnancy).
  • If used regularly close to the delivery date, the baby may be born drowsy or may have withdrawal symptoms such as restlessness and feeding problems. But there are many ways to minimize and/or manage the short-term symptoms that may occur. The baby should be watched closely.

Recommendations During Pregnancy

  • Because stopping benzodiazepines can increase the risk of the mother having a seizure, do NOT suddenly stop use without consulting your doctor.
  • If you and your doctor decide you are going to stop using sleeping pills, get help to slowly reduce (taper) the medication.
  • If you and your doctor have decided that you should continue using sleeping pills, be sure to tell the health care providers involved with the delivery of your baby so that they can monitor your baby and watch carefully for signs of withdrawal at birth.
  • Ask about relaxation techniques, counselling and other ways to help you deal with anxiety and problems sleeping without medications. It is important to sleep well when you are pregnant.

Risks During Breastfeeding

  • Some of these medications, depending on the dose, may cause drowsiness in the baby.

Recommendations During Breastfeeding

  • Because stopping benzodiazepines suddenly can increase the risk of a seizure or withdrawal symptoms in you and perhaps in the baby, do NOT stop use suddenly without consulting your doctor.
  • If you and your doctor decide you are going to stop using sleeping pills or sedatives, get help to slowly reduce (taper) the medication.
  • It may not be a possibility, but ask your doctor if you can time your dose with breastfeeding times.
  • Ask about relaxation techniques, counselling and other ways to help you deal with anxiety and sleep better without medications. Remember that getting enough sleep during the post-partum period is extremely important.
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