Pharmacology in Breastfeeding

Question 1

Benefits of breastfeeding for baby?

Answer 1

Reduced risks of infections- GI, UTI’s, otitis media, resp diseases
Helps with neurological development
Protects against atopic diseases
Lower incidence of insulin-dependence diabetes
Lower risks of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

Question 2

Benefits of breastfeeding for mother?

Answer 2

Reduced risks of breast cancer
Less uterine bleeding
Can reduce risks of post-natal depression
Can provide contraception
Faster weight loss from pregnancy weight gain
Money saving compared to formula

Question 3

Drugs to avoid during breast-feeding?

Answer 3

Cytotoxic drugs
Immunosuppressants
Anti-convulsant
Recreational drugs
Lithium
Radio-iodine

Question 4

Which drug can be given to inhibit lactation?

Answer 4

Cabergoline

Question 5

When may you want lactation to be inhibited?

Answer 5

If mother has lost baby

Question 6

Which medication can be given to enhance lactation?

Answer 6

Metoclopramide

Question 7

When may you want to enhance lactating?

Answer 7

Female couples who both want to breastfeed the child

Question 8

If tetracycline is taking when breast-feeding, what may happen to the baby?

Answer 8

Risk of permanent tooth staining

Question 9

If isoniazid is taking when breast-feeding, what may happen to the baby?

Answer 9

Risk of pyridoxine deficiency

Question 10

If methadone is taking when breast-feeding, what may happen to the baby?

Answer 10

Risk of withdrawal when breast feeding stops

Question 11

If diazepam is taking when breast-feeding, what may happen to the baby?

Answer 11

Drug accumulation and sedation