Drugs In Breastfeeding

Question 1

Background information- mother related

Answer 1

Is she breastfeeding
What is the condition the medicine is for
Does it need treating now or can treatment be delayed until child is weaned

Question 2

Background information - infant related

Answer 2

How old is infant 
Were they premature or full-term
Infant’s weight
Is infant exclusively breast fed
Is infant well
Anything to suggest infant may be at increased risk of drug harm e.g., impaired kidney or liver function 
Has infant been prescribed any medicines

Question 3

Background information- medicines related

Answer 3

Medicine - proposed medicine and any other medicine the mother is taking (make sure to ask intended duration of treatment)
Indication - is mother already taking medicine in question
Is drug therapy necessary
Have other therapies/medicines been considered or tried
Has mother taken drug during pregnancy? If so identify whether appropriate to switch to an alternative if necessary