LactMed — Drugs and Lactation Database
LactMed is the NIH/NLM peer-reviewed database for drug safety during breastfeeding. Each entry cites the primary literature, quantifies infant exposure where data exist, and offers alternative drugs when the queried one is concerning. Free, no login.
- LactMed (NCBI Bookshelf)
- Search LactMed — append a drug name.
- Mobile / app access — also available via mobile.
What each LactMed entry contains
- Summary of Use during Lactation — clinical bottom line, often a one-liner.
- Drug Levels — measured maternal milk concentrations and relative infant dose.
- Effects in Breastfed Infants — case reports of observed effects.
- Effects on Lactation and Breastmilk — galactagogue / antigalactagogue effects.
- Alternate Drugs to Consider — frequently the most useful section in clinic.
- References — full citation list to primary literature.
Related resources
- MotherToBaby Fact Sheets — companion for prenatal exposures.
- Infant Risk Center (TTUHSC) — Thomas Hale’s textbook-derived database (subscription); the other major lactation reference.
- Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine Protocols — peer-reviewed clinical protocols.
- ABM Protocol #15 — Analgesia in Lactation — high-frequency reference.
When to use it
- Any maternal prescription in a breastfeeding patient. Never just say “stop nursing” without checking LactMed first.
- Reassuring counseling — for many common drugs (e.g., labetalol, SSRIs, most antibiotics, vaccines) LactMed documents safety with high confidence.