Medicines and Breastfeeding

Medicines which are safe during breastfeeding:

Any medicine that is considered safe during pregnancy is safe for use while breastfeeding.

Medicines which are not supposed to be used during pregnancy are better avoided while breastfeeding. During pregnancy the medicines you take reach the baby in larger amounts, but the mothers liver and kidneys help excrete these medicines from the baby’s body. However, while breastfeeding even though the medicines might reach the baby in smaller amounts but they may harm if the baby’s liver or kidneys are unable to excrete these medicines from the body.

Medicines like amoxicillin which are prescribed for infants are considered to be safe during breastfeeding.

Medicines that are not absorbed from the stomach or intestines like gentamycin injections or local anesthetics given by dentists are safe.

Eye ointments or ear drops.

Skin ointments.

Medicines which are relatively safe for use during breastfeeding:

Aspirin, if it is taken in normal doses.

Most of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID’s).

Most medicines prescribed for epilepsy, high blood pressure and thyroid deficiency.

A medicine prescribed for amebic infections- Metronidazole.

It is very important to consult your doctor before taking any medicines while breastfeeding.