Medications when breastfeeding

Taking medications while breastfeeding

Some medicines and drugs can affect your breastmilk supply or pass through breastmilk to your baby. These include:

• prescription medicines
• over-the-counter medicines like cold and flu pills
• herbal remedies
• caffeine (such as coffee and tea)
• nicotine (such as smoking and vapes)
• alcohol
• illegal drugs.

Always check with your doctor before taking any medicines, herbs, supplements or drugs when breastfeeding. Some are not safe for you or your baby.

Alcohol is one example and is not recommended when breastfeeding.

There is also a free mobile phone app called Feed Safe that’s available in your app store. Download the app here: Feed Safe

Find out more about alcohol and breastfeeding

What if I am on medication?

It is important that you talk to your family doctor about all your medications when breastfeeding or expressing milk for your baby. This is especially important when you are deciding if you will start a new medication, herbal treatment or other drug.

What about medication or herbal remedies to boost my milk supply?

There is not much good quality research on the right doses or effects of herbal or natural treatments. These treatments can have unknown side effects. Talk to your doctor before taking any herbal or natural treatments to increase your milk supply.

You can talk to your family doctor or Mothersafe about any medications you are taking while breastfeeding. Ask for information to help you decide what is best for you and your baby.