Which drug decreases milk supply?

Understanding Medications That Decrease Milk Supply
Breastfeeding is a natural process that can be influenced by various factors, including medications. Certain drugs are known to decrease milk supply, which can be a concern for nursing mothers. Understanding these medications is crucial for new mothers who wish to maintain their breastfeeding journey.
Key Medications That Affect Milk Supply
One of the most notable medications that can significantly reduce breast milk production is bromocriptine. This drug is primarily used to treat conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and hyperprolactinemia, a condition characterized by excessive levels of prolactin, the hormone responsible for milk production. Bromocriptine works by inhibiting prolactin secretion, which can lead to a decrease in milk supply. This effect has raised concerns, especially for postpartum women who are breastfeeding.
Another class of medications that can impact milk supply includes decongestants. Many over-the-counter cold and allergy medications contain pseudoephedrine, which is known to reduce milk production. This is particularly important for mothers to consider when seeking relief from cold symptoms, as the convenience of these medications may come at the cost of their breastfeeding goals.
Additionally, certain hormonal contraceptives, particularly those containing estrogen, can also lead to a decrease in milk supply. Estrogen can interfere with the hormonal balance necessary for lactation, making it essential for breastfeeding mothers to consult healthcare providers about the best contraceptive options during the nursing period.
Factors Beyond Medication
While medications play a significant role in milk supply, other factors can also contribute to decreased lactation. Stress, dehydration, and inadequate breastfeeding techniques can all negatively impact a mother’s ability to produce milk. Therefore, it is vital for nursing mothers to maintain a supportive environment and stay hydrated.
Conclusion
For nursing mothers, being aware of the medications that can decrease milk supply is crucial. Bromocriptine, decongestants, and certain hormonal contraceptives are among the key drugs that can affect lactation. Mothers should always consult with healthcare professionals before starting any new medication to ensure it aligns with their breastfeeding goals. By understanding these factors, mothers can make informed decisions that support their health and their baby’s nutritional needs.

What medication is used to stop breastfeeding?

Using medication to stop your breast milk
Taking drugs such as Cabergoline or Dostinex® to stop breast milk works best for mothers who have not been breastfeeding for long. Talk to your doctor, midwife or nurse if you would like more information about these drugs.

What causes breast milk to dry up?

Possible causes of low supply
Nearly all babies need to feed at least 8 to 12 times in 24 hours. Your baby does not feed effectively at the breast. You have started using formula milk as well as breastfeeding. You have had breast surgery that is affecting your milk supply.

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.

What is the fastest way to dry up breast milk?

Drink one mug of sage or peppermint tea 3 or 4 times per day, for 2 to 3 days. Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) can help dry up your milk, but ask your doctor before using this medicine, and do not take it if you have kidney or thyroid problems, or if you have glaucoma. Take Benadryl as directed on the package.

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.

What drugs are bad for breastfeeding?

Avoid using marijuana, crack, cocaine, heroin, ecstasy, meth, and other street drugs. Misusing prescription drugs can also harm your baby. This includes taking your own prescription drugs in a way not intended by your doctor and taking a prescription drug meant for someone else.

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 inhibits milk supply?

Stress is the No. 1 killer of breastmilk supply, especially in the first few weeks after delivery. Between lack of sleep and adjusting to the baby’s schedule, rising levels of certain hormones such as cortisol can dramatically reduce your milk supply.

What is the name of the drug that suppresses lactation?

Cabergoline is the drug of choice for lactation inhibition. It has several adverse effects and contraindications. In addition, pyridoxine (vitamin B6) has been used for this indication with no substantial adverse effect.

What would cause a decrease in the supply of milk?

Stress is the No. 1 killer of breastmilk supply, especially in the first few weeks after delivery. Between lack of sleep and adjusting to the baby’s schedule, rising levels of certain hormones such as cortisol can dramatically reduce your milk supply.