What medications slow breast milk production?

Understanding Medications That Slow Breast Milk Production
Breastfeeding is a natural process that can sometimes be affected by various factors, including medications. For new mothers, understanding how certain drugs can impact milk supply is crucial, especially when considering the health and nutrition of their infants.
Key Medications That May Decrease Milk Supply
Several common medications have been identified as potentially reducing breast milk production. Among these, pseudoephedrine, often found in cold medications like Sudafed, is notable. While it is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers, it has been associated with decreased milk production due to its decongestant properties.
Another medication, diphenhydramine, commonly known as Benadryl, is frequently used for allergies and is also excreted in breast milk. Similar to pseudoephedrine, diphenhydramine may lead to a reduction in milk supply, making it important for nursing mothers to consult healthcare providers before use.
Additionally, certain hormonal contraceptives, particularly those containing estrogen, can negatively affect milk production. Estrogen can interfere with the hormonal balance necessary for lactation, leading to a decrease in milk supply.
Other Factors Influencing Milk Production
While medications play a significant role, it’s essential to recognize that other factors can also impact breast milk supply. Stress, dehydration, and inadequate breastfeeding or pumping can contribute to lower milk production. Therefore, mothers should consider these elements alongside any medication use.
Conclusion
For breastfeeding mothers, awareness of the medications that can slow milk production is vital. Pseudoephedrine and diphenhydramine are two common examples that may affect supply, alongside hormonal contraceptives. As always, consulting with healthcare professionals before starting any new medication is advisable to ensure both maternal and infant health are prioritized.

What medications can decrease 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 medication reduces breast milk?

Women sometimes to ask for a tablet to stop their milk supply. This medication works best if it is taken within 12- 24 hours of your baby’s birth. The medication is not routinely prescribed in hospital due to the many side effects and health risks with this medication. The medication is called cabergoline (Dostinex®).

How can I slow down my breast milk production?

‘Block feeding’ is a method that can help reduce your milk supply in just a few days.

1. Feed your baby from only one breast at each feed.
2. Space feeds out — at least 2 ½ hours apart.
3. At your next feed, change to your other breast.
4. Continue this pattern for a few days.

What drinks increase milk supply?

Plain water, cow’s milk, herbal tea, smoothies, coconut water, and juice are good drink options during lactation. If you’re worried about your milk supply, speak with your obstetrician. You could also consider working with an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant.

Does Mucinex dry up breast milk?

Neela. “Just as they dry up your nasal congestion, they can also dry up your breast milk. Usually, antihistamines and nasal decongestants are the ingredients that have this effect on breastmilk.”

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 will stop my milk supply?

Several factors will affect how long it takes for your milk to dry up, including your baby’s age and how much milk your body is making.

• 7 ways to dry your breast milk supply quickly.
• Cold turkey.
• Herbs.
• Cabbage.
• Birth control.
• Sudafed.
• Vitamin B.
• Other drugs.

Why avoid cinnamon while breastfeeding?

Coumarin, an ingredient in some cinnamon products, can cause liver problems, but the amount you’d get is so small that it probably won’t be a problem. Given the lack of evidence about its safety, children, pregnant women, and women who are breastfeeding should avoid cinnamon as a treatment.

What vitamin dries up breast milk?

PIP: Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine hydrochloride) is contained in most prenatal and multivitamin preparations. Available research states that pyridoxine blocks lactation and inhibits the secretion of breast milk in nursing mothers by suppressing the normally elevated prolactin hormone levels encountered during puerperium.

What medicine to avoid 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.