(HealthDay News) — Just as when they were pregnant, breast-feeding moms need to monitor the drugs they take, which could reach their infants.
The American Academy of Family Physicians offers these medication guidelines for breast-feeding mothers:
- If you must take medications orally, take them just after breast-feeding, to give the medications time to travel through your system.
- Generally, acetaminophen and NSAIDs are safe pain relievers for nursing women, but always check first with your doctor.
- Don’t take aspirin while breast-feeding, as it may lead to bleeding and skin rash in babies.
- Don’t take antihistamines long-term while breast-feeding.
- Carefully monitor your baby for any side effects from your medications. Be especially aware of symptoms such as trouble breathing or skin rash.