CBC CBC Medications & Substances in Breastfeeding 2

Question 1

Alcohol consumption while breastfeeding is a common concern. What is the safest guidance for a CBC counselor to provide?

Accepted Answer

Waiting 2–3 hours per standard drink before nursing minimizes infant exposure

Answer

Pumping and dumping immediately after drinking eliminates all alcohol from milk

Answer

One to two drinks daily are considered completely safe for all infants

Answer

Alcohol does not transfer into breast milk at detectable levels

Question 2

Which antidepressant class is generally considered most compatible with breastfeeding based on current evidence?

Accepted Answer

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), particularly sertraline and paroxetine

Answer

Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)

Answer

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)

Answer

All antidepressants carry equal risk and none should be used

Question 3

A CBC counselor is asked about cannabis use while breastfeeding. What is the most evidence-based response?

Accepted Answer

Cannabis use is not recommended during breastfeeding as THC accumulates in breast milk and may affect infant neurodevelopment

Answer

Cannabis is safe because it is a natural plant product

Answer

Topical cannabis products pose no risk to breastfed infants

Answer

THC does not cross into breast milk due to its large molecular size

Question 4

What is the primary concern with codeine use in breastfeeding mothers?

Accepted Answer

Ultra-rapid metabolizers can produce dangerously high morphine levels that transfer into milk, potentially causing infant respiratory depression

Answer

Codeine reduces milk supply significantly after a single dose

Answer

Codeine is not absorbed from breast milk by infants

Answer

The concern is only relevant for premature infants

Question 5

Which herbal supplement has some evidence suggesting it may decrease milk supply?

Accepted Answer

Sage (Salvia officinalis)

Answer

Fenugreek

Answer

Blessed thistle

Answer

Fennel

Question 6

When a breastfeeding mother must undergo general anesthesia for surgery, what is the current evidence-based recommendation?

Accepted Answer

Breastfeeding can typically resume as soon as the mother is alert and stable, without a required pump-and-dump period

Answer

She must pump and dump for at least 24 hours post-anesthesia

Answer

Breastfeeding must be permanently discontinued after general anesthesia

Answer

She should wait a minimum of 12 hours regardless of how she feels