Additional information relating to breastfeeding

To be used in conjunction with individual drug entries for specific information and guidance.

There is limited evidence for drugs in this group. The recommendations are made largely on the drugs’ properties. Choice of drug may depend on symptoms.

There is a small risk that suppression of milk production could occur with anticholinergic drugs (atropine, hyoscine butylbromide, propantheline), although there is no published evidence to support this. It is therefore advisable to monitor breastfed infants for signs of decreased lactation, e.g. poor weight gain, if used long-term. There are also uncertain effects of exposure to small amounts due to infant’s increased sensitivity to anticholinergics – monitor infant for signs of urinary retention, colic and constipation.