Breastfeeding Flashcards
1
Q
Which medications are safe to use whilst breastfeeding?
A
- Abx: penicillins, cephalosporins, trimethoprim
- Endocrine: glucocorticoids (low doses only), levothyroxine (doesn’t affect neonatal hypothyroidism screening)
- Epilepsy: sodium valproate, carbamazepine
- Asthma: salbutamol, theophyllines
- Psychiatric: TCAs, antipsychotics (NOT clozapine)
- Hypertension: beta-blockers, hydralazine
- Anticoagulants: warfarin, heparin
- Digoxin
2
Q
What medications are not safe to use whist breastfeeding?
A
- Abx: ciprofloxacin, tetracycline, chloramphenicol, sulphonamides
- Psychiatric: lithium, benzodiazepines
- Aspirin
- Carbimazole
- Methotrexate
- Sulfonylureas
- Cytotoxic drugs
- Amiodarone
3
Q
What measures can be taken to suppress lactation?
A
- Stop the lactation reflex - stop suckling or expressing
- Supportive measures: supportive bra and analgesia
- Cabergoline - 1st line medication of choice if required
4
Q
What is 1st line medication for mastitis?
A
Flucloxacillin 10-14 days
- Breastfeeding/expressing should continue
5
Q
What is a potential complication of mastitis?
A
Breast abscess - required incision and drainage
