Is It Safe for My Baby? - Stimulants

(e.g., amphetamines; weight-reducing pills, such as phentermine (Ionamin®); or medications to treat attention deficit disorder, such as methylphenidate (Ritalin®))

Risks During Pregnancy

• Stimulants may increase your risk of high blood pressure, miscarriage, premature delivery and having a low birth weight baby.

Recommendations During Pregnancy

• It’s best not to use stimulants; check with your doctor for alternatives.
• If you are using stimulants that have not been prescribed, seek help/counselling about how to stop.

Risks During Breastfeeding

• Taking stimulants may cause irritability and poor sleeping patterns in the baby.

Recommendations During Breastfeeding

• It's best not to use stimulants unless they have been prescribed by your doctor.
• If using without a prescription, seek help/counselling about how to stop.

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