Breastfeeding Drugs – What do I need to know?

Whether we are talking about drugs  that have been prescribed, can be purchasd over-the-counter, or are for recreational use (including drugs like marijuana, alcohol, nicotine, cocaine, etc.), there are some things that need to be considered before using them:

1. Most drugs do pass into the mother’s milk, and are therefore consumed by your baby.  Usually, it is 1% or less of the drug that will pass through to your baby.
2. If you are someone that uses a drug such as alcohol or another illegal one on a daily basis, you should not breastfeed.  This is because your baby is likely to experience problems with growth, brain development, motor delays, and so forth.
3. In most circumstances, breastfeeding and drugs (prescription and over-the-counter) are compatible.  This means that you should be able to continue breastfeeding.  There are some breastfeeding drugs that are safer alternatives for nursing mothers.  A great book that will help you and your physician out is: Medications and Mothers Milk: A Manual of Lactational Pharmacology (Medications and Mother’s Milk)
4. Most of the time, the benefits of continuing to breastfeed while you use a medication, outweigh the risks associated with using the drug.
5. Usually drugs taken during pregnancy, are also safe as breastfeeding drugs.
6. If the medication you are taking would be safe for use with an infant, then it is probably okay for use by you during breastfeeding.
7. Sometimes, breastfeeding drugs should be held off until the infant is older, and the baby’s body organs are more mature and able to excrete the absorbed medication more effectively.
8. Only take a medication when it is really needed.  So, for example, if you have a head cold, consider other options other than drugs for treatment.
9. Do not take sustained-release formulas, as these last longer in the bloodstream.
10. Take the lowest dose possible.

As always, you should discuss breastfeeding drugs with your physician to ensure safety.  You might also find it helpful to read this post.