Not all drugs are safe to use while breastfeeding. This is because some drugs will be concentrated in the breast milk and then passed to the infant. The chemical properties of the drug determine which medications will pass into the breast milk. Drugs that suppress lactation should be avoided. These include: bromocriptine, levodopa, trazodone, estradiol, and large-dose oral contraceptives.

It is important to review your medications with your doctor if you are breastfeeding. Make sure your doctor is aware that you are breastfeeding before you start new medications.

Dangerous medications include:

• Anticancer drugs
• Alcohol
• Aspirin
• Chloramphenicol
• Ergotamine (for migraines)
• Lithium
• Metronidazole
• Methimazole
• Minocycline (a special form of tetracycline)
• Radioactive drugs, such as radioactive iodine, used to treat thyroid disorders
• Recreational drugs, such as marijuana and cocaine

Unsafe medications may also include:

• ACE inhibitors
• Antianxiety medications
• Antidepressants
• Antihypertensives
• Barbiturates
• Beta-blocker medications
• Caffeine
• Corticosteroids
• Digoxin
• Diuretics
• Nicotine
• Phenytoin
• Pseudoephedrine hydrochloride
• Theophylline
• Warfarin

Drugs generally considered safe during breastfeeding include:

• Acetaminophen
• Amoxicillin
• Epinephrine
• Insulin
• Lidocaine
• Most antihistamines
• Most nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, including ibuprofen
• Narcotic analgesics such as codeine
• Prednisone
• Tetracycline
• Thyroid medications