One of the most common questions breastfeeding moms ask is whether a medication is safe to take while nursing. It makes sense to wonder how something you take could affect your milk, your supply, or your baby.
In many cases, breastfeeding can continue while taking medication, and “pump and dump” is rarely needed.1,2 But medication safety can depend on the specific drug, dose, your baby’s age and health, how much milk your baby drinks, and how long you need to take it.4,7,8,9
This guide explains how medications can affect breastfeeding, when extra caution is needed, and what to know about common medications such as decongestants, antibiotics, and pain relievers. Always check with your healthcare provider, pharmacist, or IBCLC before starting or stopping medication while breastfeeding.
Key Takeaways
- Many medications are compatible with breastfeeding, but safety depends on the specific medication and situation.1,4
- You rarely need to stop breastfeeding or “pump and dump” because of medication.1,2
- Premature, newborn, or medically fragile babies may need extra caution.7,8,9
- Some decongestants may temporarily reduce milk supply.10,11,12
- Always ask your healthcare provider, pharmacist, or IBCLC before starting or stopping medication while breastfeeding.
Can You Breastfeed While Taking Medication?
So often, healthcare professionals tell women that they have to temporarily stop breastfeeding their child because of a medication prescribed. Virtually every medication on the market will say, “Do not take if pregnant or breastfeeding,” which is a standard general recommendation on all packaging. However, it’s important to review the research and understand how a medication is transferred from the mother to the baby and absorbed by the baby.
According to the Mayo Clinic, at least some amount of medication will transfer from a mother’s blood into her breast milk. But for the most part, it would only be a low level (depending on the specific type).1
One study in 2011 found that “most newer antidepressants produce very low or undetectable plasma concentrations in nursing infants.”3
And a report from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) explains that “only a small proportion of medications are contraindicated in breastfeeding mothers or associated with adverse effects on their infants,” though there are exceptions.4
These findings help explain why many medications can be compatible with breastfeeding when used under the guidance of your healthcare provider.1,4
Related: Can You Breastfeed While Sick?
When Should You Stop Breastfeeding Due to Medication?
In most situations, breastfeeding can continue while taking medication. However, there are a few circumstances where temporary or permanent interruption may be necessary.
On rare occasions (for example, a woman taking chemotherapy drugs), a woman would have to discontinue breastfeeding.5,6 The AAP report (mentioned above) notes that, even though most medications won’t harm the breastfeeding mother or baby, you must consider the “individual risk/benefit ratio,” so make sure to get your doctor’s input on any medication you plan to take while breastfeeding.4
Some factors to consider about the medication itself and your breastfeeding child include:7,8,9
- The relative infant dose (how much the baby will receive exposure to)
- Whether your baby is full-term, premature, or unwell
- How old your baby is
- How much milk they’re getting within a 24-hour period
- The medication’s properties (half-life, protein binding, oral bioavailability, and molecular weight)
Related: Mastitis: The Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Common Medications and Breastfeeding
Medication safety while breastfeeding depends on the exact product, dose, timing, and your baby’s age and health. Here are a few common medication categories breastfeeding moms often ask about.1
1. Decongestants
In some cases, a decongestant or antihistamine temporarily decreases your supply.10,11,12 This is due to the nature of this type of medication, which constricts the blood vessels and reduces blood flow to the breasts.11,13,14,15
However, not everyone will notice a decrease as a result. If your milk supply is well-established and your feeding is going well, you may have no reaction. If you do notice a bit of a decrease, stop taking the medication.
Related: When Will My Milk Come In? What You Should Know
2. Antibiotics
Many antibiotics are compatible with breastfeeding, but check with your provider about the specific antibiotic you are prescribed.16
However, you might notice that your baby has some digestive upset (loose stool, for example) from the medication.17
Taking probiotics during the course of taking your medication and for a few months after you’ve finished is important.16 The good bacteria from the probiotics will go through your milk.18 This may also help support your baby’s digestion if they experience mild digestive side effects. It’s also very beneficial to eat and drink fermented and cultured foods filled with good bacteria, so try to incorporate these into your diet every day.17,19
3. Pain Medication
Some over-the-counter pain relievers are commonly considered compatible with breastfeeding, but it is still important to check the specific medication and dose.20 However, if you’re taking opioid pain medications, it’s important to seek advice, as it will depend on the amount you take (the dose), the length of time you’ll be taking it, and how old your baby is.
The use of opioids following a cesarean section is generally safe.20 This will be short-term, and baby will get a smaller dose with a very small volume of milk since it’s mostly colostrum.21 However, if you will be taking opioids for the long term and breastfeeding a premature or sick baby, it might not be compatible with breastfeeding. There will likely be an alternative that’s a better option for you and your baby.
Related: Tips for Breastfeeding After a C-Section
The Bottom Line on Medications and Breastfeeding
Every medication decision during breastfeeding should balance the needs of the parent with the needs of the baby.
Medication questions while breastfeeding can feel stressful, but in many cases, nursing can continue while you take the medication you need. The benefits of continuing to breastfeed often outweigh the potential risks of medication exposure through breast milk.1
If your doctor or pharmacist tells you to stop breastfeeding or pump and dump, it may be worth seeking additional guidance from an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). Trusted resources such as Hale’s Medications & Mothers’ Milk can also help support informed conversations with your healthcare team.2
Note: This article is for general information purposes only. Always seek the advice of your doctor, pharmacist, lactation consultant, or IBCLC before starting, stopping, or changing any medication while breastfeeding.
