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Breast-feeding and medications: What's safe?
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Do all medications pass into breast milk?
Does my baby's health and age influence how he or she might be affected by exposure to medication in my breast milk?
Should I stop breast-feeding while taking medication?
What medications are safe to take while breast-feeding?
Do I need my health care provider's OK ahead of time?
What if my baby has a reaction?
Do I need my health care provider's OK ahead of time?
If you're breast-feeding and plan to take medication, check with your health care provider. Avoid taking unnecessary medications, such as herbal medications, high-dose vitamins and unusual supplements.
Also ask about the timing. For example, taking medication immediately after breast-feeding might help minimize your baby's exposure. However, different drugs peak in breast milk at different times.
