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Updated: Jul 6, 2026
07:34
Milk Collection Methods for Mice and Reeves' Muntjac Deer
Published on: July 19, 2014
Methadone maintenance and long-term lactation
Lauren M Jansson1, Robin Choo, Martha L Velez
1Department of Pediatrics, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, USA. ljansson@jhmi.edu
Summary
Breastfeeding is safe for many methadone-maintained women. Methadone concentrations in breast milk remain low for up to 6 months, supporting breastfeeding recommendations for these mothers.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Neonatal Studies
- Maternal Health
Background:
- Breastfeeding guidelines for methadone-maintained women are unclear.
- Previous studies show low neonatal methadone levels in breast milk.
- Long-term methadone concentrations in breast milk are not well-documented.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate methadone concentrations in breast milk and plasma of women breastfeeding beyond the neonatal period.
- To provide data on methadone levels in breast milk up to 6 months postpartum.
Main Methods:
- Studied four women undergoing methadone maintenance therapy.
- Collected blood and breast milk samples up to 6 months postpartum.
- Analyzed methadone concentrations in plasma and breast milk.
Main Results:
- Methadone concentrations in breast milk were consistently low.
- Methadone concentrations in maternal plasma were also low.
- Breast milk methadone levels did not significantly increase up to 6 months postpartum.
Conclusions:
- Low methadone concentrations support breastfeeding for methadone-maintained women.
- Extended breastfeeding appears safe regarding methadone exposure.
- Further research may inform clinical guidelines on breastfeeding for methadone-maintained mothers.
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