Is Homeopathy compatible with breastfeeding? Do we have alternatives for Homeopathy?

Homeopathy

August 5, 2016 (Very Low Risk)

At latest update no relevant data on excretion of Homeopathic medicines into breast milk were found.

Homeopathic products follow the principle of infinitesimal dissolution dosage, without any content of active substances, with a placebo-like effects, which is a reason for a lack of toxicity for anybody and hence the likelihood of harmful effects to the nursing mother and her infant is considered to be non-existent.

However, reportedly some cases of severe intoxication and allergic reactions have occurred, either by wrong preparation or confusion with other products that were not homeopathic. Use of this therapy is related to delay in diagnosis or treatment of severe conditions.

Homeopathic preparations are frequently recommended by midwives, despite the fact that there is not scientific evidence of effectiveness of it. It has not shown beneficial effect on amelioration of any process, even in pregnancy, child birth or breastfeeding.

Alcoholic solutions could pose a health problem for infants.

Due to the lack of proof on effectiveness shown in all meta-analysis done for this purpose, Homeopathy should not be considered a medical science, which is a reason for being withdrawn from financial support by the Health National System in many countries.

Alternatives

We do not have alternatives for Homeopathy since it is relatively safe.

Very Low Risk

Compatible. Not risky for breastfeeding or infant.

Low Risk

Moderately safe. Mild risk possible. Follow up recommended. Read the Comment.

High Risk

Poorly safe. Evaluate carefully. Use a safer alternative. Read the Comment.

Very High Risk

Not recommended. Cessation of breastfeeding or alternative.

Synonyms

  • ホメオパシー
  • Homeopathic product
  • معالجة مثلية
  • Ομοιοπαθητική
  • Гамеапатыя
  • 顺势疗法

Drug trade names

References

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  2. [No authors listed] Do not use drugs to prevent onset of lactation. Relieve the discomfort and wait. Prescrire Int. 2013Abstract
  3. Smith V. Evidence for homeopathy in childbirth. Pract Midwife. 2013Abstract
  4. Posadzki P, Alotaibi A, Ernst E. Adverse effects of homeopathy: a systematic review of published case reports and case series. Int J Clin Pract. 2012Abstract Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
  5. [No authors listed] Homeopathy: still no evidence of efficacy. Prescrire Int. 2012Abstract
  6. Simonart T, Kabagabo C, De Maertelaer V. Homoeopathic remedies in dermatology: a systematic review of controlled clinical trials. Br J Dermatol. 2011Abstract
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  9. Aviner S, Berkovitch M, Dalkian H, Braunstein R, Lomnicky Y, Schlesinger M. Use of a homeopathic preparation for \infantile colic\ and an apparent life-threatening event. Pediatrics. 2010Abstract Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
  10. Sehon S, Stanley D. Evidence and simplicity: why we should reject homeopathy. J Eval Clin Pract. 2010Abstract
  11. Ernst E. [Homeopathy]. Wien Med Wochenschr. 2010Abstract
  12. Cuesta Laso LR, Alfonso Galán MT. Possible dangers for patients using homeopathy: may a homeopathic medicinal product contain active substances that are not homeopathic dilutions? Med Law. 2007Abstract
  13. Shang A, Huwiler-Müntener K, Nartey L, Jüni P, Dörig S, Sterne JA, Pewsner D, Egger M. Are the clinical effects of homoeopathy placebo effects? Comparative study of placebo-controlled trials of homoeopathy and allopathy. Lancet. 2005Abstract
  14. Gut E, Melzer J, von Mandach U, Saller R. [Natural remedies during pregnancy and lactation]. Gynakol Geburtshilfliche Rundsch. 2004Abstract
  15. Malik IA, Gopalan S. Use of CAM results in delay in seeking medical advice for breast cancer. Eur J Epidemiol. 2003Abstract
  16. Chakraborti D, Mukherjee SC, Saha KC, Chowdhury UK, Rahman MM, Sengupta MK. Arsenic toxicity from homeopathic treatment. J Toxicol Clin Toxicol. 2003Abstract
  17. Audicana M, Bernedo N, Gonzalez I, Muñoz D, Fernández E, Gastaminza G. An unusual case of baboon syndrome due to mercury present in a homeopathic medicine. Contact Dermatitis. 2001Abstract
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  19. Dantas F, Rampes H. Do homeopathic medicines provoke adverse effects? A systematic review. Br Homeopath J. 2000Abstract
  20. Montoya-Cabrera MA, Rubio-Rodríguez S, Velázquez-Gonzalez E, Avila Montoya S. [Mercury poisoning caused by a homeopathic drug]. Gac Med Mex. 1991Abstract