Is Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) safe for a breastfeeding mother?

Safety of NAD+ for Breastfeeding Mothers

NAD+ (Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) supplements are not recommended for breastfeeding mothers due to insufficient safety data and the lack of specific studies evaluating its transfer into breast milk and potential effects on nursing infants.

Understanding Medication Safety During Breastfeeding

• Most medications that breastfeeding women take are compatible with breastfeeding, but there are exceptions that require caution 1
• The Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) published by the National Library of Medicine is the most comprehensive source of information regarding medication safety during breastfeeding 1
• When evaluating supplement safety during lactation, several factors must be considered:
  • Transfer of substances into breast milk (depends on concentration gradient, protein binding, and molecular properties) 2
  • Oral bioavailability in the infant 1
  • Half-life of the substance 1
  • Potential effects on milk production 1

Concerns About NAD+ During Breastfeeding

• NAD+ is not specifically evaluated in any of the major breastfeeding medication databases or guidelines 1
• Dietary and herbal supplements generally lack high-quality clinical trials evaluating their safety during lactation 3
• The American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines on breastfeeding do not include NAD+ among medications known to be safe during breastfeeding 1
• Without specific safety data, the potential risks include:
  • Unknown effects on infant metabolism 4
  • Possible interference with the infant's developing NAD+ pathways 3
  • Unknown effects on milk production 1

Decision-Making Framework for Supplements During Breastfeeding

• When considering any supplement during breastfeeding, healthcare providers should:
  • Determine if the supplement is essential for maternal health 2
  • Evaluate if safer alternatives with established safety profiles exist 1
  • Consider the age and health status of the infant (premature or compromised infants may be at higher risk) 2
  • Consult reliable resources such as LactMed, InfantRisk.com, or MotherToBaby.org 1

Recommendations for Breastfeeding Mothers Considering NAD+

• Avoid NAD+ supplements during breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data 3
• If a mother is seeking NAD+ for specific health benefits, discuss evidence-based alternatives with established safety profiles 5
• For mothers who have already been taking NAD+:
  • Consider temporarily discontinuing while breastfeeding 3
  • If continuation is deemed necessary, monitor the infant for any unusual symptoms 4
  • Consult with a healthcare provider familiar with lactation pharmacology 1

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Assuming that "natural" supplements are automatically safe during breastfeeding 3
• Relying on manufacturer claims rather than evidence-based resources 5
• Failing to report supplement use to healthcare providers 6
• Not considering potential interactions between supplements and prescribed medications 2

Remember that the benefits of breastfeeding are well-established, and decisions about supplement use should prioritize maintaining successful breastfeeding while ensuring infant safety 4.