Current research shows that most medications are compatible with breastfeeding, which means advice to pump and dump breast milk is dated and not necessary.  The following list is a quick reference for common medications that are generally safe to take while breastfeeding.  As always, discuss any medication with your health care provider. 

Antibiotics

Amoxicillin

Augmentin

Azithromycin

Penicillin

Dicloxacillan

Keflex

Ceclor

Bactrim – use with caution with premature infants, infants with jaundice or G6PD

Antidepressants

Celexa

Lexapro

Prozac

Zoloft

Wellbutrin – use with caution

Decongestants/Cough Suppressants/Allergy Medications

Dextromethorphan

Zyrtec( Cetirizine)

Claritin (Loratadine)

Allegra (Fexofenadine)

Phenylephrine

Afrin (Oxymetazoline)

Sudafed (Pseudoephedrine) – some research indicates it can decrease milk supply, avoid if able

Contrast Dye/General Anesthesia

In general, safe to breastfeed https://kellymom.com/bf/can-i-breastfeed/illness-surgery/radioisotopes/

Pain Medications

Tylenol (Acetaminophen)

Motrin/Advil (Ibuprofen)

Aleve (Naproxen) – short term use or infrequent use preferred.

Aspirin – wait to feed for 2-3 hours after dose.

Oxycodone – watch for sedation in infant.

Hydrocodone – watch for sedation in infant

Additional Resources

Infant Risk Helpline: 1-866-352-2519 (M-F, 8a.m. -5p.m. CT)

Infant Risk Center Webpage:  www.infantrisk.com

LactMed: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/books/NBK501922/

Breastfeeding Center of Pittsburgh: 412-246-4726