Breastfeeding Drug Domperidone

However, domperidone is not approved by the FDA for use in lactating women. There are numerous reports that have linked use of the drug with cardiac arrhythmias, cardiac arrest and even sudden death.

There are more than 2000 reports available of the adverse effects related to use of this drug, and it has in fact been withdrawn from a number of countries.

Several nations have approved the use of domperidone for gastric disorders, however it has not been approved for enhancing breast milk production.

The recent alert by the FDA came about as discoveries revealed that women who are breastfeeding or pumping were purchasing the drug from US pharmacies that prepare it from alternate sources. There are in fact a number of internet sites that provide women with resources for ordering domperidone online. A majority of these do not detail the risks associated with the drugs use during lactation.

There are great health benefits that breast milk provides for a nursing infant. The recommendation by the FDA to breastfeeding women, to not use the drug under any circumstances, is not to discourage women from breastfeeding but rather to warn them against potential harm.

Encouraging Lactation Naturally

First and foremost, pumping more regularly and increasing the number of feeds your baby has may work in and of itself to increase milk production.

Eating a well balanced diet and continuing a pre-natal or multivitamin during breastfeeding will also ensure an adequate milk supply.

Fatigue is common among most new moms, but may also contribute to diminished or diminishing milk supplies. Be sure that you take every opportunity to rest when your newborn rests in order to ensure that your milk supply is not affected.

You should also work to minimize your stress level when possible. An illness may temporarily sideline your milk production, but such temporary effects usually resolve themselves in a day or so.

There are some natural supplements that might also help enhance your milk supply. One is fenugreek, which is considered an herbal galactagogue.

Before taking any type of natural or herbal supplement, you should always consult with your health care provider to rule out any other causes for a diminished supply and to ensure the efficacy and safety of the treatment modality selected.

Remember that even natural or herbal supplements may interfere with other medications you may be taking, or may have adverse effects or other risks associated with use.

By consulting with your health care provider you should be able to come up with a relatively safe and sound strategy for ensuring an adequate milk supply for your newborn.

That said some women will not be able to breastfeed for one or more reasons, and some will choose not to.  The decision to breast feed your infant or bottle feed your baby should be yours to make exclusively.

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