Nearly all medications pass into breast milk. Most of these medications appear in very small amounts and may be taken in by the baby. Their safety depends on the type of medication, how they are taken, how often they are taken, the baby's age, and the frequency and volume of feedings. Only take medication if you really need it. If you need to take the medication, schedule the doses so that the lowest amount gets into the milk (take it just after a feeding, preferably a night feeding, rather than just before nursing). If you must take a drug that is contraindicated, and no alternatives are available, get an electric pump to maintain your milk supply if you will not be nursing for more than a day. Your milk supply will build up when the baby starts nursing again. It is important that your doctor discuss these benefits and risks carefully with you before any drug treatment is initiated. You should not take any medications (including non-prescription drugs such as laxatives and cold medicines) without your doctor's approval. If in doubt, discuss it with your doctor, pharmacist or call the DPIC at 6423-9119.