Can a breastfeeding mother take Augmentin (amoxicillin/clavulanate) while breastfeeding?

Augmentin During Breastfeeding

Augmentin (amoxicillin/clavulanate) is safe to use while breastfeeding and does not require interruption of nursing. 1, 2

Safety Profile

Amoxicillin/clavulanate is explicitly classified as compatible with breastfeeding and is recommended as a safe, broad-spectrum antibiotic option for nursing mothers. 1, 2 The FDA drug label confirms that amoxicillin is excreted in human milk but notes that caution should be exercised, primarily regarding potential infant sensitization rather than toxicity. 3

• Both amoxicillin and clavulanate appear in breast milk at low concentrations that do not produce toxic effects in nursing infants. 2
• The European Respiratory Society guidelines classify amoxicillin as "compatible" with breastfeeding, meaning it can be used without concern. 2
• Multiple international guidelines, including those from the American Academy of Dermatology, recommend amoxicillin/clavulanate as a first-line choice during lactation. 1, 2

Practical Considerations for Your Infant

Continue breastfeeding normally while taking Augmentin—there is no need to pump and dump or alter your nursing schedule. 2

• Monitor your infant for mild gastrointestinal effects (loose stools, mild diarrhea) due to alteration of intestinal flora, though serious adverse events are rare. 2
• The small amounts of antibiotic in breast milk should not be considered therapeutic for your infant—if your baby develops an infection, they require their own appropriate dosing. 4
• Penicillins and cephalosporins have poor oral bioavailability in infants, meaning minimal absorption occurs even when present in breast milk. 2

Important Caveats

The only specific concern with amoxicillin/clavulanate is a theoretical risk if you were to deliver prematurely while taking it, but this does not apply to established breastfeeding. 2 For a breastfeeding mother with an infant of any age, including newborns, Augmentin remains safe. 1, 2

• If your infant develops a fever requiring medical evaluation while you're taking antibiotics, inform the pediatrician, as antibiotics in breast milk could potentially cause falsely negative bacterial cultures. 2
• The benefits of continued breastfeeding far outweigh the minimal theoretical risks of antibiotic exposure through breast milk. 5

When to Seek Medical Attention

• If your infant develops unusual symptoms such as persistent diarrhea, rash, or feeding difficulties while you're taking Augmentin, contact your pediatrician. 6
• If your own symptoms worsen or don't improve within 48-72 hours of starting antibiotics, return for reevaluation. 1