What medications should be avoided while breastfeeding?

Understanding Medications to Avoid While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a crucial period for both mother and child, and while many medications are considered safe, there are specific drugs that should be avoided to ensure the health and safety of the infant. The transfer of substances through breast milk can pose risks, making it essential for nursing mothers to be informed about which medications could potentially harm their babies.
Key Medications to Avoid
1. Oral Retinoids: Medications like isotretinoin, commonly used for severe acne, are contraindicated during breastfeeding. These drugs can have significant effects on a nursing infant, and while topical retinoids may be safe, oral forms should be strictly avoided due to their potential for serious side effects.
2. Certain Antidepressants: While many antidepressants are deemed safe, some, particularly those with higher concentrations in breast milk, may pose risks. For instance, medications like paroxetine have been associated with adverse effects in infants and should be used with caution.
3. High-Dose Aspirin and Naproxen: Long-term use of high-dose aspirin is discouraged as it can lead to complications such as Reye’s syndrome in children. Similarly, naproxen can transfer into breast milk in significant amounts, and its use should be limited.
4. Cigarettes and Recreational Drugs: The use of cigarettes, marijuana, and other recreational drugs is highly discouraged during breastfeeding. These substances can adversely affect the infant’s development and health, leading to long-term consequences.
5. Certain Antihistamines: While some antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) are commonly used, they can cause sedation in infants and may also reduce milk supply. Therefore, their use should be approached with caution.
6. Chemotherapy Agents: Medications used in cancer treatment are generally contraindicated during breastfeeding due to their potential toxicity and the risk of serious side effects in infants.
General Guidelines for Medication Use
It is crucial for breastfeeding mothers to consult healthcare providers before taking any medication. Most medications are safe when prescribed by a knowledgeable healthcare professional who understands the implications for breastfeeding. The FDA has also emphasized the importance of evaluating the risks and benefits of medications during this period.
In summary, while many medications can be safely used during breastfeeding, certain drugs pose significant risks and should be avoided. Mothers should always seek professional advice and consider alternatives when necessary to protect their infants’ health.

What passes through breast milk?

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.

What to drink to increase breast milk?

Drinks to increase nutrients in breast milk

• Water. Plain water tops the list because not getting enough of it can directly reduce your milk supply.
• Cow’s milk. Cow’s milk is on the list because of its nutrient density.
• Herbal tea with fenugreek.
• Fruit smoothie with chia seeds.
• Coconut water.
• Juice.

Is there anything you shouldn’t have while breastfeeding?

Avoiding certain foods, such as garlic, onions or cabbage, might help. Remember, there’s no need to go on a special diet while you’re breastfeeding. Simply focus on making healthy choices — and you and your baby will reap the rewards.

Is there anything to avoid while breastfeeding?

Avoiding certain foods, such as garlic, onions or cabbage, might help. Remember, there’s no need to go on a special diet while you’re breastfeeding. Simply focus on making healthy choices — and you and your baby will reap the rewards.

What medications are not safe to take 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 are 5 disadvantages of breastfeeding?

• There can be discomfort involved with breastfeeding.
• You may leak milk at times that are inconvenient or embarrassing.
• Feeding your baby in public may be more difficult.
• Everything you consume is being passed on to your baby.
• You need special clothing and bras for breastfeeding.

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.

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 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 is not recommended for breastfeeding?

The only true contraindications to breastfeeding are the following: Infants with classic galactosemia (galactose 1-phosphate uridyltransferase deficiency) Mothers, in the US, who are infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), untreated brucellosis, or suspected or confirmed Ebola virus disease.