What Medicine Can I Take When Breastfeeding? A Mom’s Guide to What’s Safe (and What’s Not)
When you’re breastfeeding, everything you put into your body can potentially affect your baby. So it’s totally normal to pause before reaching for that cold medicine, allergy pill, or pain reliever. You’re not just thinking about yourself anymore—you’re thinking about your little one, too.
But here’s the good news: most common medications are safe to take while breastfeeding—and when in doubt, the team at PAK Pediatrics is here to guide you. With support from our NEPA Breastfeeding Center and a team of compassionate providers, you’ll never have to figure things out alone.
Let’s take a look at what’s safe, what’s not, and how to make the best choices when you’re sick, in pain, or managing a chronic condition while nursing.
🤱 Is It Safe to Take Medicine While Breastfeeding?
Yes—in many cases, it is perfectly safe to take medicine while breastfeeding. While some medications do pass into breast milk, they often do so in very small amounts that are unlikely to harm your baby.
That said, every situation is different. Factors like your baby’s age, how much breast milk they drink, and your overall health can all play a role in what’s safe for you to take.
👉 When in doubt, check with your pediatrician or a lactation consultant. You can also call our offices in Kingston, Pittston, Mt. Top, or Scranton for quick guidance.
You can find more helpful breastfeeding resources on our breastfeeding page.
🧪 Common Over-the-Counter Medicines and Breastfeeding Safety
Let’s break down some everyday meds and whether they’re typically considered safe while nursing.
✔️ Pain Relievers
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol): Generally safe
- Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin): Safe and often preferred because it has low levels in breast milk
- Aspirin: Usually avoided due to potential risk, but may be used short-term under supervision
📌 More info: Can I Take Tylenol While Breastfeeding?
✔️ Allergy Medications
- Diphenhydramine (Benadryl): Can cause drowsiness in mom and possibly baby—occasional use is usually okay
- Loratadine (Claritin) and cetirizine (Zyrtec): Non-drowsy and preferred for regular use
📌 Related: Can You Take Benadryl While Breastfeeding?
✔️ Cold and Flu Remedies
- Guaifenesin (Mucinex): Considered safe but can cause some mild GI upset in babies
- Dextromethorphan: Cough suppressant that’s usually safe
- Phenylephrine or pseudoephedrine (in decongestants): Can lower milk supply—use with caution
📌 Learn more: Can You Take Mucinex While Breastfeeding?
📌 And: Can I Take DayQuil While Breastfeeding?
✔️ Antibiotics
Most antibiotics prescribed for infections like mastitis, UTIs, or sinus infections are safe for breastfeeding moms, including:
- Amoxicillin
- Cephalexin
- Azithromycin
Always let your doctor know you’re breastfeeding so they can choose the safest option.
✔️ Birth Control
Hormonal birth control can sometimes affect milk supply. Progestin-only pills (mini pills), IUDs, and implants are generally considered safe. Avoid combined estrogen-progestin pills in the first few months postpartum unless cleared by your doctor.
✔️ Other Common Medications
- Antacids (Tums, Pepcid, Zantac): Safe
- Laxatives and stool softeners (Colace, Miralax): Safe in moderation
- Topical creams (acne meds, eczema creams): Usually safe if not applied to the breast area
📌 More info: Can You Use Retinol While Breastfeeding?
🚫 Medicines to Avoid or Use with Caution
Some medications may not be safe while breastfeeding. These include:
- Certain cancer treatments (chemotherapy)
- Lithium (used for bipolar disorder)
- Some sleep medications and sedatives
- High-dose aspirin
- Certain weight loss drugs
- Some anti-anxiety medications
If you’re prescribed something long-term or more serious, always talk to your provider and ask about alternatives or monitoring plans. Don’t stop taking essential medications without speaking to a doctor first.
💉 What About Medications Like Ozempic?
Newer medications, such as Ozempic (used for diabetes and sometimes for weight loss), are still being studied for safety during breastfeeding. There’s limited data, so it’s important to weigh the risks and benefits carefully with your healthcare provider.
📌 Read our article: Can You Take Ozempic While Breastfeeding?
🤒 What to Do When You’re Sick While Breastfeeding
Being sick is never fun—but when you’re breastfeeding, you might worry about passing illness to your baby.
Here’s what to do:
- Keep nursing – Your breast milk is full of antibodies that help protect your baby
- Stay hydrated – Fluids are key for milk production
- Use hand sanitizer and practice good hygiene to prevent spreading germs
- Wear a mask if needed during close contact while sick
If you’re unsure about what’s safe to take or when to call the doctor, reach out to us at PAK Pediatrics. We’re happy to help.
👩⚕️ When to Call the Pediatrician or Lactation Consultant
Don’t guess—ask. If you’re considering any new medication, it’s a good idea to double-check:
- If it could affect your milk supply
- If it could make your baby sleepy or fussy
- If there’s a better alternative that’s safer while breastfeeding
Our team at the NEPA Breastfeeding Center can answer questions, suggest safer options, and help you feel confident in your care choices.
📌 Visit our Breastfeeding for New Moms page for more support resources and real-life tips.
🧡 You’re Doing Great
Breastfeeding while sick or managing other health needs can be tough—but you don’t have to go it alone. With the right information and a supportive pediatric team, you can make smart, safe choices for both you and your baby.
At PAK Pediatrics, we’re here to listen, help, and walk alongside you. From same-day sick visits to personalized lactation support, we’ve got you covered in Kingston, Pittston, Mt. Top, and Scranton.
Need breastfeeding guidance or medication advice?
📞 Call your nearest PAK Pediatrics location or schedule a lactation consultation today.