If you’re breastfeeding, you’re giving your baby a healthy start.
Here’s what you should probably know.
Almost any drug that’s present in the blood will transfer into breast milk to some extent.
Most medications do so at low levels and pose no real risk to most infants.
There are exceptions, though.
Some drugs can be found in high levels in breast milk.
As a result, every medication must be considered separately.
However, medications used in the two days after childbirth transfer at very low levels to your infant.
That’s because you produce a limited volume of breast milk during this time.
The risk is lowest for healthy babies 6 months and older.
At this age, drugs metabolize through infants' bodies efficiently.
Most medications are safe to take while breastfeeding.
Also, the benefit of continuing a medication for a chronic condition may outweigh any potential risks.
Still, a few medications aren’t safe to take while breastfeeding.
Or they might recommend breastfeeding when the medication is at a low level in your breast milk.
Sometimes your health care provider might recommend that you stop breastfeeding temporarily or permanently.
The recommendation can depend on how long you’re gonna wanna take the drug.
Then use the stored breast milk once you begin taking the drug.
Throw away the milk you pump while you’re taking the medication.
With your health care provider’s input, consider this list of medications found to be safe during breastfeeding.
Keep in mind that this isn’t a full list of safe medications.
Researchers don’t have a final answer about whether combination contraceptives containing estrogen and progestin affect milk production.
Talk to your health care provider before taking this jot down of birth control while breastfeeding.
If you’re breastfeeding and plan to take medication, check with your health care provider.
Avoid taking medications you don’t necessarily need, such as herbal medications, high-dose vitamins and unusual supplements.
Also ask about the timing.
For example, taking medication immediately after breastfeeding might help lower your baby’s exposure.
However, different drugs peak in breast milk at different times.
If you notice any change in your baby’s behavior, contact your child’s health care provider.
Updated: 8/24/2022
Publication Date: 7/26/2012
