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Tags
HERO ID
7387403
Reference Type
Journal Article
Subtype
Review
Title
The use of psychotropic medications during breast-feeding
Author(s)
Burt, VK; Suri, R; Altshuler, L; Stowe, Z; Hendrick, VC; Muntean, E
Year
2001
Is Peer Reviewed?
Yes
Journal
American Journal of Psychiatry
ISSN:
0002-953X
EISSN:
1535-7228
Volume
158
Issue
7
Page Numbers
1001-1009
Language
English
PMID
11431219
DOI
10.1176/appi.ajp.158.7.1001
Web of Science Id
WOS:000169773000003
Abstract
OBJECTIVE:
The authors reviewed the risks and benefits regarding the use of psychiatric medications during breast-feeding as they relate to the health and well-being of mothers and their infants. Strategies are discussed to limit infant exposure to a medication while effectively treating the nursing mother.
METHOD:
A MEDLINE search of the literature since 1955 was conducted to determine the use of psychotropic medications in breast-feeding women. Search items included each of the categories of psychopharmacologic agents as well as each of the agents in association with nursing, breast-feeding, postpartum, lactation, and breast milk.
RESULTS:
No controlled studies on the safety of psychotropic medications in nursing mothers were found. Case reports and small case series for each of the different psychotropic medications serve as the basis for suggested treatment guidelines for the management of psychiatric illnesses in breast-feeding women. Thus, each case needs to be considered on an individual basis, with a thoughtful analysis of the risks and benefits of nursing and exposure of the infant to medication. The baseline clinical status of the infant should also be reviewed.
CONCLUSIONS:
Women are vulnerable postpartum to psychiatric disorders and frequently face the need to decide whether to take psychotropic medications while breast-feeding. Should psychiatric medication be indicated, the parents should be provided with the available information regarding the effects of these medications on the neonate. In this way, an informed decision can be made. When psychotropic medication is used during breast-feeding, it is strongly recommended that the infant's pediatrician be involved in monitoring the infant.
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