This ISN'T a Breastfeeding Thread... Just Want to Know...

Jolie, BSN · Sep 29, 2003

The current thought on this subject changes about every day! My best suggestions would be to get a current NICU drug reference, talk to a pharmacist who specializes in NICU patients (found at most level III centers), or contact a lactation specialist.

That said, I know that thyroid hormone is a big no-no. Cholesterol lowering drugs (statins) are usually avoided, and lithium (for bi-polar patients) is discouraged as well.

fourbirds4me · Sep 29, 2003

There is a wonderful book that is the bible where medications and breastfeeding is concerned. It is by Dr. Tom Hale.... "Medications and Mother's Milk". There is also a website with lots of information http://neonatal.ttuhsc.edu/lact/

Wanted to add-- http://neonatal.ama.ttuhsc.edu/discus/messages/72/347.html

"thyroxin does not penetrate milk to any degree. So as long as mom is supplemented to raise her thyroid levels to the normal range, there is absolutely no problem with breastfeeding. "

Tom Hale, PH.D.

prmenrs, RN · Sep 29, 2003

IMO, all post-partum and NICU floors should have a copy of that book. Especially useful for housestaff.

VickyRN, MSN, DNP, RN · Sep 29, 2003

Thank you very much!!

dawngloves, BSN, RN · Sep 29, 2003

ITA. We refer to the Tom Hale on the unit.

kids · Sep 29, 2003

I used my copy of Hales at the very least 4 times a day when doing Peds triage/advice. Amazing how many Docs (including OB/GYN) will prescribe a med to a BF mom and tell her to ask the Ped is it is safe to use .

BETSRN · Sep 30, 2003

Hale's book MEDICATIONS AND MOTHER'S MILK and DRUGS IN PREGNANCY AND LACTATION by Briggs are pretty much the gold standard. Please use those for reference.