What medications are safe to take while breastfeeding?

Understanding Medication Safety During Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding mothers often face the dilemma of needing medication while wanting to ensure the safety of their infants. The good news is that many commonly used medications are considered safe for breastfeeding mothers and their babies. However, it is crucial to understand which medications fall into this category and the guidelines surrounding their use.
Safe Medications for Breastfeeding Mothers
Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Medications like paracetamol (acetaminophen) and ibuprofen are generally safe for breastfeeding mothers. These drugs have been extensively studied and are known to pass into breast milk in very small amounts, which are unlikely to affect a nursing infant.
Antibiotics: Many antibiotics are also safe to use while breastfeeding. For instance, penicillin and cephalosporins are commonly prescribed and have a long history of safe use in breastfeeding mothers. However, some antibiotics, such as tetracycline, are contraindicated due to potential adverse effects on the infant’s teeth and bones.
Asthma Medications: Inhaled steroids, such as fluticasone (Flovent), are considered safe as they achieve very low levels in maternal plasma and are not a concern for breastfeeding mothers. Oral steroids like prednisone are also generally safe when used appropriately.
Cold and Allergy Medications: For treating common colds or allergies, many over-the-counter options are available. Antihistamines like loratadine and cetirizine are often recommended as they are less sedating and have minimal effects on breastfed infants.
Guidelines for Medication Use
When considering medication while breastfeeding, it is essential to consult healthcare professionals. Doctors and pediatricians can provide guidance based on the specific medication, its dosage, and the health status of both the mother and the infant. The FDA requires drug manufacturers to disclose information about the amount of medication that enters breast milk and any potential side effects on breastfed babies.
Medications to Avoid
While many medications are safe, a few are contraindicated during breastfeeding. For example, certain chemotherapy agents and radioactive isotopes can pose significant risks to a nursing infant. Additionally, some medications may have sedative effects that could impact the infant’s alertness and feeding patterns.
Conclusion
In summary, while breastfeeding mothers may need to take medications for various health issues, many options are safe for both mother and child. It is vital to engage in open discussions with healthcare providers to ensure the chosen medications are appropriate and to stay informed about any potential risks. By doing so, mothers can manage their health effectively while continuing to provide the best for their infants.

How do I find out if medication is safe while breastfeeding?

Check with a health care provider, either yours or your baby’s, or a Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) to find out if you can take a certain medicine while breastfeeding. The ADHS 24-Hour Breastfeeding Hotline is available at 1-800-833-4642 to answer your questions about breastfeeding and medicines.

Do I have to pump and dump after taking medication?

If it is a short-term medication, pumping and dumping will keep your milk supply up until you can resume nursing. If you are on incompatible medications for the long term, discuss options with your provider. While you may need to wean, donor breast milk is an option for your baby or you may choose to use formula.

What drugs pass into breast milk?

Most drug molecules, including alcohol, nicotine and caffeine, are small enough to enter milk. Exceptions are drugs with high molecular weights such as heparins and insulin.

Can I have Tylenol cold and flu while breastfeeding?

Many medicines are safe to use when you breastfeed. These include: Pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin). Some cold and influenza (flu) medicines.

What medications should be avoided while breastfeeding?

Common medicines that are not recommended when you’re breastfeeding include:

• codeine phosphate.
• decongestants that come as tablets, liquids or powders that you swallow.
• some nasal decongestants that come as nose sprays or drops – check with a GP or pharmacist before using them.
• aspirin for pain relief.

What medications decrease milk supply?

For example, antihistamines like Benadryl, Zyrtec, Allegra, etc, or decongestants like Sudafed, can decrease your milk supply. So please call us if you are breastfeeding and need clarification on the safety of a medication or to see if a medication you are taking may be affecting your milk supply while breastfeeding.

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.

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.

What not to do while breastfeeding?

Don’t drink alcohol when you’re breastfeeding. Alcohol includes beer, wine, wine coolers and liquor. If you do drink alcohol, don’t have more than two drinks a week. Wait at least 2 hours after each drink before you breastfeed.

What is a list of cold medications safe while breastfeeding?

Options like Robitussin, Delsym, Triaminic and Vicks DayQuil Cough are unlikely to affect your supply and have no reported infant side effects. Pseudoephedrine. Another cold medicine safe for breastfeeding moms and their little ones is pseudoephedrine, the active ingredient in Sudafed and Allegra D.