The American Academy of Family Physicians offers these medication guidelines for breast-feeding mothers:

• If you must take medications orally, take them just after breast-feeding, to give the medications time to travel through your system.
• Generally, acetaminophen and NSAIDs are safe pain relievers for nursing women, but always check first with your doctor.
• Don't take aspirin while breast-feeding, as it may lead to bleeding and skin rash in babies.
• Don't take antihistamines long-term while breast-feeding.
• Carefully monitor your baby for any side effects from your medications. Be especially aware of symptoms such as trouble breathing or skin rash.

-- Diana Kohnle