The use of psychotropic medications with breastfeeding women: applying the available evidence

Breastfeeding women may be prescribed a psychotropic medication to treat a pre-existing illness such as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, or to treat an illness that develops as a direct result of pregnancy and childbirth, such as depression. Mental health nurses are often not aware that many psychotropic medications are considered relatively safe for the infant as well as the breastfeeding woman. This paper provides the clinician with an overview of the major psychotropic medications for breastfeeding women and outlines their potential impact on the infant. Guidelines for the use of these medications are also provided for mental health nurses based on the available evidence.