Patient Experience

Patient Experience

NMIC Bulletin Vol. 27 No. 4 Use Of Medicines In Breastfeeding Women

6 October, 2021

Use Of Medicines In Breastfeeding Women

  • Most commonly used medicines can be used by breastfeeding women
  • It is important to balance the benefits of medication for the mother and the benefits of continued breastfeeding for the mother and infant, against the limited or potential risk of medicine exposure to the infant
  • Caution is advised when prescribing for mothers of premature or low birth weight infants, particularly when multiple medicines are required
  • Useful medicines information resources are available for healthcare professionals (HCPs) on the use of medicines in breastfeeding women; where possible HCPs should provide practical recommendations about infant monitoring to breastfeeding women taking medicines