At my practice site, a state psychiatric hospital, we have to weigh the
risks and benefits of using these psychotropic medications in our
pregnant moms or our new moms.  If the benefits outweigh the risks then
the medications are used.  My primary concern for the nursling would be
the risk of sedation since a small amount of these meds are in the
breastmilk.  Also the mother should be well informed about toxic side
effects of lithium so that if the nursling displays these problems (ie.
severe nausea, sever diarrhea, extreme sedation)
treatment can be sought.  The mother may wish to notify the nursling's
pediatrician about her medication regimen and nursing status if the child
needs to be seen by the pedicatrician.  If you wish further information or
citations concerning the use of these agents in breastfeeding moms
please e-mail me privately.

Julie Cold Kissack, Pharm.D., BCPP