What medications affect breast milk supply?

Understanding Medications and Breast Milk Supply
Breastfeeding is a vital aspect of infant nutrition, but many mothers find themselves navigating the complexities of medication use during this period. Certain medications can significantly impact breast milk supply, either by reducing it or, in some cases, enhancing it. Understanding these effects is crucial for nursing mothers who may need to take medications for various health conditions.
Medications That Can Decrease Milk Supply
Several common medications are known to potentially reduce breast milk production. Progestin-only contraceptives, often recommended for breastfeeding mothers, can lead to a decrease in milk supply. It is generally advised to delay the use of these contraceptives until at least six weeks postpartum to allow the mother to establish a stable milk supply before introducing hormonal birth control.
Additionally, certain antihistamines and decongestants, particularly those containing pseudoephedrine, have been shown to have a drying effect on breast milk. These medications can inhibit the production of milk by affecting the hormonal balance necessary for lactation.
Another class of medications that can impact milk supply includes diuretics. These drugs, often used to treat high blood pressure or fluid retention, can lead to dehydration, which may subsequently reduce milk production.
Medications That May Enhance Milk Supply
On the flip side, some medications are used specifically to enhance milk supply. Galactagogues, such as metoclopramide and domperidone, are often prescribed to mothers struggling with low milk production. These medications can stimulate prolactin levels, which is the hormone responsible for milk production. However, the use of these drugs must be carefully considered, as they can have side effects that may outweigh the benefits.
The Importance of Timing and Consultation
Timing is crucial when it comes to medication use during breastfeeding. For instance, galactagogues are most effective when started within three weeks of delivery. Therefore, mothers experiencing low milk supply should consult healthcare providers promptly to explore their options.
Moreover, it is essential for breastfeeding mothers to communicate openly with their healthcare providers about any medications they are taking. While many medications are safe and have little to no effect on milk supply, some can pose risks to both the mother and the infant.
Conclusion
Navigating medication use while breastfeeding requires careful consideration and consultation with healthcare professionals. While some medications can adversely affect milk supply, others may help enhance it. Understanding these dynamics is vital for mothers to make informed decisions that support both their health and their baby’s nutritional needs.

What is not recommended for breastfeeding?

Medical Contraindications for Breastfeeding
There are a few medical contraindications to breastfeeding, and these include: An infant who has the metabolic disorder of classic galactosemia (galactose 1-phosphate uridyltransferase deficiency). A mother living with human T-cell lymphotrophic virus type I or type II.

How to tell if breast milk is drying up?

The following are signs your baby isn’t getting enough milk:

1. Poor weight gain. It’s normal for newborns to lose 5% to 7% of their birth weight in the first few days – some lose up to 10%.
2. Insufficient, wet or dirty nappies.
3. Dehydration.

Which medication should be avoided during lactation?

What medications should be avoided when breastfeeding?

• Aspirin.
• Opioid Analgesics.
• Certain Antidepressants and Anti-Anxiety Medications.
• Birth Control Pills.
• Beta Blockers and Antiarrhythmics.
• Ergots.
• Epilepsy and Anti-Seizure Drugs.
• Cancer Treatment.

What decreases milk supply?

Other things that can also lead you to have low milk production include:

• Smoking or drinking.
• Some medicines and herbs.
• Hormonal forms of birth control. This is especially true for birth control that has estrogen.
• Nursing or pumping less often.
• Getting sick.
• Feeling stressed.
• Getting pregnant again.

What medication increases milk supply while breastfeeding?

Domperidone is the most effective medicine used to improve breast milk supply. It was developed to treat nausea, vomiting, indigestion and gastric reflux, but has been found to be effective when used to increase milk supply.

Why is Zyrtec not recommended for breastfeeding?

However, caution is advised for cetirizine use while breastfeeding due to the theoretical risk of CNS depression based on limited human data and risk of decreased milk production.

Do soft breasts mean low milk supply?

Your breasts feel softer
This happens as your milk supply adjusts to your baby’s needs. The initial breast fullness reduces in the first few weeks. At around 6 weeks, breast fullness is completely gone and your breasts may feel soft. This is completely normal and has no effect on your milk supply.

What causes a drastic drop in milk supply?

A decrease in milk supply can be caused by a variety of different factors. A very common (and solvable) problem is not pumping or feeding enough. Because milk production works on a supply and demand basis, not pumping on a frequent schedule will signal to your body that it does not need to produce milk.

What medications reduce breast milk production?

High dose steroids (such as Solumedrol) Strong antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) Testosterone. Estrogen.

What drugs cause lactation as a side effect?

Possible causes of galactorrhea include:

• Medicines, such as certain sedatives, antidepressants, antipsychotics and high blood pressure drugs.
• Opioid use.
• Herbal supplements, such as fennel, anise or fenugreek seed.
• Birth control pills.