Which drugs cannot be taken when breastfeeding?

Understanding Drug Safety During Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a crucial period for both mothers and infants, and many new mothers are understandably concerned about the medications they may need to take during this time. While most commonly used drugs are considered safe, there are specific medications that should be avoided due to potential risks to the breastfeeding infant.
Medications to Avoid
Certain drugs can pose significant risks when taken by breastfeeding mothers. Illicit drugs such as cocaine, phencyclidine (PCP), and opioids are strictly contraindicated. These substances can transfer into breast milk and may lead to serious health issues for the infant, including developmental delays and withdrawal symptoms.
Additionally, hormonal contraceptives that contain high doses of estrogen can suppress milk production, which may affect breastfeeding success. While some forms of hormonal birth control are safe, those with higher estrogen levels should be approached with caution.
Other Considerations
Beyond illicit drugs and certain hormonal contraceptives, there are other medications that may not be safe during breastfeeding. For instance, some antidepressants and antipsychotics can have adverse effects on infants, although many are deemed safe at therapeutic doses. It is essential for mothers to consult healthcare providers about the specific medications they are considering.
Moreover, certain antibiotics and pain relievers are generally safe, but it is crucial to discuss any medication with a healthcare professional to ensure it does not pose a risk to the infant.
Conclusion
In summary, while many medications are safe for breastfeeding mothers, there are notable exceptions that can adversely affect both milk production and infant health. Mothers should always consult with healthcare providers before taking any medication to ensure the safety of their breastfeeding journey. This proactive approach not only protects the infant but also supports the mother’s health and well-being during this critical time.

What drugs can pass through a mother’s breast milk and harm a nursing baby?

Drugs

• If you use amphetamines, ecstasy, cocaine or heroin, you should not breastfeed for 24 hours after use.
• If you smoke cannabis or tobacco you should breastfeed your baby before you smoke, and smoke outside and away from the baby. Do not have your baby in the same room as the smoke.

What are unsafe drugs in breastfeeding?

ANSWER: Only a few drugs pose a clinically significant risk to breastfed babies. In general, antineoplastics, drugs of abuse, some anticonvulsants, ergot alkaloids, and radiopharmaceuticals should not be taken, and levels of amiodarone, cyclosporine, and lithium should be monitored.

What should a breastfeeding mother not do?

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 excreted in breast milk?

• analgesics and antipyretics: short courses of paracetamol, acetylsalicylic acid, ibuprofen;
• antibiotics: ampicillin, amoxicillin, cloxacillin and other penicillins, erythromycin.
• bronchodilators (e.g. salbutamol), corticosteroids, antihistamines, antacids.

What medications dry up the breast milk supply?

Remember, there are also many medications that can reduce your milk supply. For example, antihistamines like Benadryl, Zyrtec, Allegra, etc, or decongestants like Sudafed, can decrease your milk supply.

What medications are unsafe 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 drugs show up in 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.

Which drug is usually avoided with breastfeeding?

Table. Examples of drugs contraindicated in breastfeeding.

Drug	Comment
Antineoplastics	Leukopenia, bone marrow suppression
Gold salts	Rash, nephritis, haematological abnormalities
Iodine	High doses (>150 micrograms daily) lead to risk of infant hypothyroidism
Lithium	Breastfeeding only feasible with rigorous monitoring

How can I breastfeed my boyfriend but not pregnant?

Inducing lactation in people who aren’t pregnant requires medication that mimics hormones your body makes during pregnancy. Suckling from the nipple can initiate lactation, either with a breast pump or by a baby.

What can I not do when breastfeeding?

Caffeine. It’s not just tea and coffee that contains caffeine – it’s in chocolate, and various energy drinks and soft drinks. It’s sensible to cut caffeine out while breastfeeding because it’s a stimulant so can make your baby restless. If you do drink caffeine, try not to have more than 300mg a day.