New Guidelines Say Most Prescriptions Safe For Breastfeeding Moms

DETROIT (WWJ) There's new guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics that says breast feeding mothers can take most prescription drugs without risking their babies' health.

But there are some stipulations.

The report says nursing moms should should try to avoid certain painkillers, psychiatric drugs and herbal treatments.

Beaumont OB/GYN Brian Torok says it's important for new moms and their doctors to weigh the risk versus benefit with any drug.

"Sometimes if moms unnecessarily get off the medications because of concerns with the breastfeeding of the baby, they're not on the right track mentally, or emotionally where they need to be and that can harm or impair their ability to be the best mother they can be," Dr. Torok said.

The AAP recommends babies be exclusively breastfed until they're about 6 months old, then breast milk and other foods until they're at least a year old.