pediatrics
Breastfeeding
Medications and Breastfeeding
 for medications and breastfeeding, which should be consulted regarding use of or exposure to specific medications or classes of drugs. For some common medications contraindicated for breastfeeding mothers, see table Some Drugs Contraindicated for Breastfeeding Mothers . When medications are necessary, the safest known option should be used; when possible, most medications should be taken immediately after breastfeeding or before the infant’s longest sleep period, although this strategy is less helpful with neonates who nurse frequently and exclusively. Knowledge of the adverse effects of most medications comes from case reports and small studies. Safety of some medications (eg,acetaminophen,ibuprofen, cephalosporins,insulin) has been determined by extensive research, but others are considered safe only because there are no case reports of adverse effects. Medications with a long history of use are generally safer than newer medications for which few data exist. 