Consuming any substance and breastfeeding is worth ensuring the safety of use and compatibility while breastfeeding. Fun fact: Most common medications (OTC and Prescription Grade) are compatible with breastfeeding. However, many physicians are not comfortable guaranteeing that to families or educating based on old knowledge of the efficacy when new studies come out often to change the recommendations to safe to use. For the purposes of this post we will discuss a few common over the counter medications and I will provide resources that you can have in your back pocket to use if you get prescribed a medication while breastfeeding and want an evidence-based answer to your question.
An important factor to consider when considering taking a medication while breastfeeding is, “How old is your nursling and are they premature or otherwise immunocompromised?” – Premature babies, newborns, and medically unstable babies are at the greatest risk for exposure to medication in breast milk. The risk is lower for healthy babies who are 6 months or older who can move drugs through their bodies more efficiently.
Lactation consultants base medications on a chart that evaluates the risk level for each drug. The sliding scale system was created by Dr. Thomas Hale and the World Health Organization. their training on a sliding scale of risk. The ratings vary between L1 (safest) to L5 (contraindicated).
*Always consult your physician before beginning a medication or herbal supplement while breastfeeding
Common OTC medications and their safety:
- OTC Pain Medications: Many pain relievers, especially OTC varieties, pass into breast milk in extremely low levels. Nursing mothers can use: acetaminophen (Tylenol) ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Proprinal).
- Allergy Medications: Zyrtec is the preferred medication for allergies while breastfeeding.
- Cold Medications: Robitussin, Mucinex, Robitussin DM are a few options that can be taken for a very short time. Watch for drowsiness in infant or poor feeding.
- Heart Burn Medications: All over the counter brands are safe.
These are just a few medications that are commonly used and safe with breastfeeding.
Final Note:
Infant Risk Hotline is a free phone line run by physicians. Families and physicians can call in to this line and ask about the safety of any medication with breastfeeding.
SAVE THIS NUMBER! Give them a ring if you ever need to confirm safety of a medication while nursing: 1 (806) 352-2519