The NHS has issued an alert for certain patient groups who may soon be advised to stop taking specific medications. In guidance last reviewed on May 7, 2026, the health service says there are several “common medicines” that are not recommended while breastfeeding.
Anyone who is currently breastfeeding, or planning to breastfeed, is currently being urged to take note of the advice, as they may be told to stop.
The health service stresses: “It’s always best to tell your GP, health visitor, dentist, pharmacist or midwife that you’re breastfeeding, when discussing medicines. Small amounts of any medicine you take may pass through your breast milk to your baby.”
It adds: “Generally, the amounts are very low and very few medicines are unsafe while you’re breastfeeding. You should also let your GP know if your baby was premature or had jaundice when they were born, as this may affect what medicines you can take.”
The common medications the NHS lists are:
- some nasal decongestants that come as nose sprays or drops – check with a GP or pharmacist before using them
- aspirin for pain relief
- herbal remedies – not enough is known about herbal remedies to guarantee they’re safe to use when breastfeeding
- decongestants that come as tablets, liquids or powders that you swallow
- codeine
If you’re taking any of these medicines and you’re breastfeeding (or planning to) and haven’t yet told a healthcare professional, you should let them know as soon as possible.
The NHS stresses: “Do not stop taking prescribed medicines without talking to your GP.” Speak to a GP or pharmacist before taking antihistamines for allergies or allergy-related problems such as hay fever.
What medicines can I take while I’m breastfeeding?
The NHS notes that medicines that can be taken while breastfeeding include:
- asthma inhalers
- the painkiller paracetamol – you should check with a GP or midwife before taking paracetamol if it’s combined with other medicines
- most antibiotics
The NHS explains it’s usually safe to have dental treatment, local anaesthetic, routine vaccinations (including MMR, tetanus, flu and COVID-19) and most operations while breastfeeding. It adds that if a midwife, health visitor, doctor or pharmacist recommends an NSAID for swelling or a fever, ibuprofen is generally regarded as the safest choice.
Some contraceptives, cold remedies and medicines for postnatal depression can be used while breastfeeding, but not all are suitable. Always check with a GP, midwife, health visitor or pharmacist before taking anything.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
