The most important thing to consider when using medications in lactation for breastfeeding mothers, families and healthcare professionals is education and information.
NICE guidance states that anyone who prescribes or dispenses medications to a breastfeeding mother should consult supplementary sources of information
Here are some useful resources for further information on use of medications while breastfeeding
- The Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) This is the Toxnet Drugs and Lactation Database. It has a wealth of information on almost any drug you may be considering and is also available as an app
- The Breastfeeding Network Drugs Factsheets These are evidence based factsheets on many drugs commonly used in lactation
- The Breastfeeding Network Drugs In Breastfeeding Information Service As well as evidence based factsheets The Breastfeeding Network also provides a service via email and Facebook where healthcare professionals can contact them for advice on medications in lactation. They also have a helpline for parents who need breastfeeding support.
- UKDILAS (UK Drugs In Lactation Advisory Service) Provided by the NHS Specialist Pharmacy Service and provides evidence based information on medications during breastfeeding
- BUMPS (Best Use of Medicine in Pregnancy) Evidence based information on medications in pregnancy provided by the UK Teratology Information Service
- Hale’s Medications and Mother’s Milk 2019. This book provides up to date evidence based information on the transmission of drugs in breastmilk for a multitude of drugs. Hale’s Medications and Mother’s Milk website.
- NICE Guidance PH11 Maternal And Child Nutrition
- NICE Guidance CG192 Antenatal and postnatal mental health: clinical management and service guidance
- For more information from here at breast-assured.com see our pages on pharmacology in lactation, pharmacology calculations and MOMS decision making aid
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