Some over-the-counter medications can harm your baby or affect your milk supply.
In general, avoid:
- Naproxen (Aleve)
- Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol)
- Herbal supplements or teas
For cold or cough medicine, check the label to make sure the ingredients are safe for you.
- Avoid: pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine
- Instead try: acetaminophen (Tylenol), dextromethorphan, diphenhydramine, or guaifenesin.
To be safe, always speak to your doctor or pediatrician before starting a new over-the-counter medication or supplement.
Before starting or continuing any prescription medication, talk to your doctor and remind them you're breastfeeding to make sure it's safe for your baby.
In general, avoid:
- Codeine and tramadol (painkillers)
- Statins for cholesterol
Make sure to talk to your doctor about the safety of common medications and ask about alternatives. Â This may include some types of:
- Antibiotics
- Medications for ADHD
- Medications for depression or bipolar disorder
- Chemotherapy
The goal is to keep you and your baby as healthy as possible, so ask questions and discuss the pros and cons with your doctor or pediatrician.
The first step always is talking to your doctor to make sure a medication is safe to take.
If you can't get an immediate answer or are waiting to hear back from your OB or pediatrician:
- Call the Infant Risk Center at 1-806-352-2519 during regular business hours (M-F, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. CST).
- Download the MommyMeds app for a small fee and look up medications on your own.
- Or look up medications and supplements at e-lactancia.org.
Even if you use one of the above, please also speak to your health care providers about your questions and before starting any new medication or supplement.
Always check with your health care provider before taking any medication while breastfeeding to make sure it's safe for your baby.
