Can Breastfeeding Women Take Deplin?
Deplin® is a nutritional supplement used in people with
depression who also have low folate levels. It may also be used in people with
schizophrenia who have hyperhomocysteinemia (high levels of homocysteine in the blood). At this time, it is not known if Deplin is safe for use while nursing. Therefore, if you are breastfeeding or planning to start, talk with your healthcare provider before taking Deplin.
More Information on Deplin and Breastfeeding
No studies have been done to see if Deplin passes through breast milk in humans or in animals. Deplin contains
L-methylfolate, which is the active form of
folic acid. When you take
folic acid supplements, your body will break down the folic acid into L-methylfolate. Folic acid is known to pass through breast milk, so it is reasonable to expect Deplin would also pass through breast milk.
The recommended dietary allowances (RDAs) for folic acid are higher for women who are breastfeeding, and in general, supplementation with these vitamins is considered compatible with nursing. However, Deplin contains L-methylfolate in amounts that are much higher than the recommended dietary intake for breastfeeding women. There is not enough information to say for certain that such high doses are safe for use while breastfeeding.
Talking With Your Healthcare Provider
You should discuss breastfeeding and
Deplin use with your healthcare provider. Each woman's situation is different, and you and your healthcare provider understand your situation best. After considering what you want and expect, as well as your current health situation, the two of you can make a shared decision that is right for you.
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