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LactMed-new NLM database on drugs and lactation
1Graduate Medical Education, Ehrman Medical Library, New York University School of Medicine, NY 10016, USA. tomasulo@library.med.nyu.edu
Medical Reference Services Quarterly
|January 11, 2007
Summary
LactMed is a free database providing crucial information on medications during lactation. It details drug levels in breast milk and infant blood, potential infant effects, and alternative treatments.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Toxicology
- Public Health
Background:
- Lactation requires careful consideration of medication safety.
- Healthcare providers need reliable data on drug transfer into breast milk.
- Existing resources may be fragmented or inaccessible.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce LactMed, a specialized database for lactation pharmacology.
- To provide comprehensive information on drug use during breastfeeding.
- To support informed clinical decision-making for nursing mothers.
Main Methods:
- Database compilation from peer-reviewed literature.
- Inclusion of data on drug levels in breast milk and infant blood.
- Information on potential infant adverse effects and alternative therapies.
Main Results:
- LactMed offers a centralized, free resource.
- It details specific medications, their transfer into breast milk, and infant outcomes.
- Provides information on safer alternatives when available.
Conclusions:
- LactMed serves as a vital tool for healthcare professionals and breastfeeding mothers.
- Enhances the safety of medication use during lactation.
- Promotes evidence-based choices for drug therapy in nursing infants.
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