What medications should not be taken while breastfeeding?

Understanding Medications During Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a crucial period for both mother and child, and while many medications are safe to take during this time, there are specific drugs that should be avoided due to potential risks to the infant. Understanding which medications can pose a threat is essential for nursing mothers.
Medications to Avoid
1. Antineoplastics: These are drugs used in cancer treatment and are known to pose significant risks to breastfed infants. Their potential to cause harm is substantial, and mothers are generally advised against using them while nursing.
2. Drugs of Abuse: Substances such as cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine can severely affect both the mother and the baby. These drugs can pass into breast milk and lead to serious health issues for the infant.
3. Certain Anticonvulsants: While some anticonvulsants may be safe, others can have adverse effects on breastfeeding infants. It’s crucial for mothers on these medications to consult healthcare providers for alternatives.
4. Ergot Alkaloids: These medications, often used for migraine treatment, can inhibit milk production and should be avoided during breastfeeding.
5. Radiopharmaceuticals: These are used in certain diagnostic imaging procedures and can be harmful to infants if passed through breast milk. Mothers are typically advised to stop breastfeeding temporarily if they undergo such treatments.
6. Hormonal Contraceptives: Some hormonal birth control methods, particularly those containing high doses of estrogen, can suppress milk production. It’s advisable for breastfeeding mothers to discuss contraceptive options with their healthcare provider.
7. Amiodarone, Cyclosporine, and Lithium: While these medications may be necessary for certain health conditions, they require careful monitoring due to their potential effects on breastfed infants.
General Guidelines for Medication Use
When considering medication while breastfeeding, it is vital for mothers to consult healthcare professionals. The general rule is to avoid any medication unless prescribed by a doctor who is aware of the mother’s breastfeeding status. Over-the-counter medications should also be approached with caution, and mothers should refer to lists of safe options.
Conclusion
In summary, while many medications are safe for breastfeeding mothers, a select group poses significant risks to infants. Antineoplastics, drugs of abuse, certain anticonvulsants, ergot alkaloids, radiopharmaceuticals, and specific hormonal contraceptives should be avoided. Nursing mothers should always consult healthcare providers to ensure the safety of both themselves and their babies when it comes to medication use.

What medications dry up milk supply?

What medications do you think have been found to decrease milk supply? Choose 1 or more:

• Epinephrine.
• Labetolol.
• High dose steroids (such as Solumedrol)
• Strong antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
• Testosterone.
• Estrogen.
• Methylergonovine (Methergine)
• Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed)

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.

Which drugs are usually avoided with 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.

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 to drink to increase breast milk fast?

Drinks to increase nutrients in breast milk

1. Water. Plain water tops the list because not getting enough of it can directly reduce your milk supply.
2. Cow’s milk. Cow’s milk is on the list because of its nutrient density.
3. Herbal tea with fenugreek.
4. Fruit smoothie with chia seeds.
5. Coconut water.
6. Juice.

Is there anything to avoid while breastfeeding?

Avoiding certain foods, such as garlic, onions or cabbage, might help. Remember, there’s no need to go on a special diet while you’re breastfeeding. Simply focus on making healthy choices — and you and your baby will reap the rewards.

What passes through breast milk?

Foods and drinks to avoid while breastfeeding
Caffeine passes into breastmilk, so large amounts of tea, coffee and cola drinks are best avoided. Drinking small amounts of drinks with caffeine (3 or less drinks a day) should not be a problem. Alcohol also passes into breastmilk and can affect your baby.

What are 5 disadvantages of breastfeeding?

• There can be discomfort involved with breastfeeding.
• You may leak milk at times that are inconvenient or embarrassing.
• Feeding your baby in public may be more difficult.
• Everything you consume is being passed on to your baby.
• You need special clothing and bras for breastfeeding.

What can’t you do while breastfeeding?

What foods and drinks should I limit or avoid while breastfeeding?

• Alcohol. There’s no level of alcohol in breast milk that’s considered safe for a baby.
• Caffeine. Avoid drinking more than 2 to 3 cups (16 to 24 ounces) of caffeinated drinks a day.
• Fish. Seafood can be a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

What drugs are passed through 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.