What is recommended for breastfeeding mothers taking antipsychotics?

The appropriate recommendation for breastfeeding mothers taking antipsychotics typically entails a careful consideration of both the benefits of breastfeeding and the potential risks associated with medication. While it is not universally necessary to discontinue all antipsychotic medications or switch to bottle feeding, some medications might pose risks of adverse effects in a nursing infant, leading to recommendations for modification of treatment.

In many cases, it might be appropriate to consider discontinuing the medication or switching to bottle feeding if there is evidence of significant transfer of the drug into breast milk and if the infant is at risk for adverse reactions. This decision should be approached with caution and ideally involves close collaboration between the mother and her healthcare provider, taking into account the specific antipsychotic being used, the dosage, and the health status of both the mother and infant.

Continuing all medications without evaluation may overlook potential risks the infant may face, while increasing dosage is not a standard recommendation for breastfeeding mothers, as this could amplify any risks. Combining breastfeeding with medication might be viable in certain situations, but the primary recommendation often emphasizes ensuring the safety of the infant above maintaining breastfeeding with potentially unsafe drugs. Thus, the decision must be individualized with the help of healthcare professionals.