LLLI Center for Breastfeeding Information

Journal Abstract of the Month for September 2001

Pediatrics 01-9;108(3):776-89

Title: "The Transfer of Drugs and Other Chemicals Into Human Milk," by the AAP Committee on Drugs.

These statements had been issued in 1983, 1989 and 1994, and this update is intended to revise the lists of agents transferred into human milk. A common reason for the cessation of breastfeeding is the use of medication by the nursing mother and advice by her physician to stop nursing. Such advice may not be warranted. This statement is intended to supply the pediatrician, obstetrician, and family physician with data, if known, concerning the excretion of drugs into human milk. Most drugs likely to be prescribed to the nursing mother should have no effect on milk supply or on infant well-being. This information is important not only to protect nursing infants from untoward effects of maternal medication but also to allow effective pharmacologic treatment of breastfeeding mothers.

The CBI has categorized this article into the following subject categories/keywords: Drugs-Lists, Psychotropic, Gastric, Substance Abuse-Tobacco, Growth, Professional Attitudes, Breast Size, Contraindications for Breastfeeding and Professional Attitudes.