LactMed Database: Reliable Drug Safety Info for Nursing Mothers

When you're breastfeeding and need to take a medicine, you don't want to guess what's safe. That's where the LactMed database, a free, science-backed resource from the National Library of Medicine that tracks how drugs move into breast milk and affect infants. Also known as LactMed, it's the go-to tool for doctors, pharmacists, and moms who need clear answers — not rumors or fear-based advice. This isn't just a list of pills. It's a living system that pulls data from clinical studies, case reports, and pharmacokinetic models to tell you exactly how much of a drug ends up in breast milk, how long it lasts, and whether it could harm your baby.

The LactMed database covers over 700 medications, from common ones like ibuprofen and sertraline to complex ones like chemotherapy drugs and antiretrovirals. It doesn't just say "safe" or "not safe." It breaks it down: for each drug, you get info on infant serum levels, potential side effects like drowsiness or diarrhea, and even alternatives if there's a risk. For example, if you're on hydroxyzine and worried about sedation in your baby, LactMed tells you the dose threshold where effects become likely — and points you to safer antihistamines like loratadine. It also flags drugs like amiodarone or lithium that require extra monitoring because they build up in milk over time. And it doesn't ignore herbs or supplements — things like St. John’s wort or fenugreek are included too, with warnings about unproven effects or contamination risks.

What makes LactMed different from random blogs or pharmacy handouts is its transparency. Every recommendation is tied to real data — not opinions. If a drug has only one case report of a side effect, it says so. If there's no data at all, it says that too. That honesty helps you and your provider make smarter choices. You might find out that your migraine med is fine, or that your antidepressant has a better, equally effective cousin that’s gentler on your baby. The database also updates regularly as new studies come out, so it stays current with real-world use. It’s used by hospitals, telehealth services, and even poison control centers because it’s reliable — not just convenient.

Behind every post in this collection — whether it’s about liquid antibiotics, QT prolongation from hydroxyzine, or drug interactions with ritonavir — there’s a hidden question: "Is this safe while I’m nursing?" The LactMed database answers that. It connects the dots between what you’re prescribed and what’s happening in your baby’s body. And in a world full of conflicting advice, that clarity matters more than ever. Below, you’ll find real-life examples of how medications affect breastfeeding, what to watch for, and how to balance your health with your baby’s safety — all grounded in the same science that powers LactMed.