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Drugs in Breast Milk
Edward R Newton1, Thomas W Hale
1*Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina †Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas.
Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology
|October 13, 2015
Summary
Most medications are safe for breastfeeding mothers, with minimal transfer into breast milk. Obstetric providers guide safe drug therapy decisions during the peripartum and postpartum periods for maternal and infant well-being.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Obstetrics
- Lactation
Background:
- Drug transfer into breast milk is a key concern for breastfeeding mothers.
- Obstetric care providers frequently assess medication safety during the peripartum and postpartum periods.
- New mothers often require drug therapy, necessitating expert guidance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide foundational knowledge for safe drug therapy decisions for breastfeeding mothers and their infants.
- To review the physiological and pharmacological principles of lactation relevant to drug transfer.
- To detail the safety profiles of common obstetric drugs in breastfed infants.
Main Methods:
- Review of lactation physiology.
- Analysis of lactation pharmacology.
- Examination of specific drug pharmacology and infant safety data.
Main Results:
- Most drugs are excreted in breast milk in negligible and safe quantities.
- Understanding lactation physiology and pharmacology is crucial for assessing drug transfer.
- Specific drug properties influence infant exposure and potential risks.
Conclusions:
- Safe drug therapy for breastfeeding mothers is achievable through informed decision-making.
- Comprehensive knowledge of drug transfer and infant safety is essential for obstetric practice.
- Evidence-based guidance supports the continuation of breastfeeding during maternal drug therapy.
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