Which drug is usually avoided with breastfeeding?

Understanding Drug Safety During Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a critical period for both mothers and infants, and many new mothers often have concerns about the medications they may need to take during this time. While most commonly used drugs are considered relatively safe for breastfeeding mothers and their babies, there are specific medications that are generally advised against due to potential risks.
Drugs to Avoid
One of the primary drugs that is usually avoided during breastfeeding is metronidazole, commonly known by its brand name, Flagyl. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has classified metronidazole as a drug whose effects on infants are not fully understood. Older studies have raised concerns about its mutagenic potential when used during pregnancy, which leads to caution in breastfeeding as well. Although the amount transferred to breast milk is significantly lower than the doses given directly to infants, the uncertainty surrounding its safety warrants avoidance.
Another medication that breastfeeding mothers are advised to steer clear of is pseudoephedrine, a common decongestant. This drug has been associated with decreased milk production, particularly with repeated use, which poses a risk to breastfeeding success. While small amounts of pseudoephedrine can be excreted in breast milk, the potential impact on milk supply makes it a less favorable option for nursing mothers.
Additionally, certain classes of medications are generally considered incompatible with breastfeeding. These include statins, which are used to manage high cholesterol, amphetamines, often prescribed for ADHD, ergotamines for migraine treatment, and chemotherapy agents used in cancer treatment. The risks associated with these drugs can outweigh the benefits, making them unsuitable for breastfeeding mothers.
Conclusion
In summary, while many medications are safe for breastfeeding, drugs like metronidazole and pseudoephedrine, along with certain classes of medications, are typically avoided due to potential risks to the infant and concerns about milk production. Mothers should always consult healthcare professionals when considering medication during breastfeeding to ensure both their health and the well-being of their child.

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 drug is associated with harm in nursing mothers?

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.

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.

Which of the following should be avoided by a lactating mother?

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.

Which opioid should be avoided in breastfeeding?

Because most people do not know if they are ultra-rapid metabolizers, and because early signs of opioid overdose in an infant may be difficult to notice, breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with codeine or tramadol.

What drug factors increase drug transfer to breast milk?

Protein Binding and Lipophilicity:
Of the many factors, perhaps the two most important and useful are the degree of protein binding, and lipid solubility. Drugs that are extremely lipid soluble, penetrate milk in higher concentrations almost without exception.

What drug should not be given with milk?

Antibiotics, and medications for HIV, osteoporosis, mental health, anemia, and thyroid problems should never be taken with dairy foods. Combining the two can cause levels of either calcium or your medication to be altered.

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.

What medications affect breast milk supply?

Medications that affect breast milk production

• Cold medicines containing pseudoephedrine. Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) is an OTC medication that treats nasal congestion.
• Fertility medications like clomiphene. Clomiphene is sometimes used as a fertility treatment.
• Birth control containing estrogen.

What drugs should be avoided in 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.