How to check if medication is compatible while breastfeeding?

by Mirna Elsabbagh

It is common for breastfeeding mothers to stop breastfeeding when they need to take medication. These breakups sometimes last a few hours, days, weeks, or even months.

Breast milk supply can be affected by this, but most of the time the mom didn't need to stop initially.

Mirna Sabbagh: How to check if medication is compatible while breastfeeding

Compatibility Test

Research by the American Academy of Pediatrics stated that approximately all medications are compatible with breastfeeding.

Due to the fact that most medication pamphlets do NOT provide us with information on whether the medicine is suitable while breastfeeding or not.

Here is how to make sure that the medicine is suitable.

  1. Sign into Lactmed 
  2. Insert the name of the medication you would like to check.

For instance, inserting Panadol. Other scientific names might be given to Panadol. Read the full summary of the drug. As you can see here, Panadol is safe to use while breastfeeding as only a very small amount passes through breast milk.

You can also check other medications as well, such as antibiotics. While breastfeeding, you will find that the effects are only short-term and do not have any significant long-term impact.

Mirna Sabbagh: How to check if medication is compatible while breastfeeding

Tips to help you know what is suitable 

  1. Make sure that the medication is suitable for your baby by asking your doctor.
  2. The majority of medications are in the bloodstream for a certain period of time. It might be best to take the medication when the baby is sleeping or after breastfeeding.
  3. If a medication has a peak after 5 hours, try taking the medication 2-3 hours before the baby goes to sleep so the blood level is not affected.

 

I hope this was helpful!

To watch the full video, click on this link.

 

Mirna Sabbagh, an adult and child dietitian, nutritionist, and lactation consultant. She also has several digital courses: Pregnancy Nutrition Course, breastfeeding course,  starting solids 6-12 months course, and also the Feed with Confidence course that you can sign up for from the comfort of your home.

The courses are pre-recorded. As soon as you make the course purchase, you will receive a link to watch the course from your phone or laptop.

You can also e-mail Mirna for questions at info@mirnaelsabbagh.com

Back to Breastfeeding