Lactation suppression: Can medication help?

Date Updated: 02/03/2021

Answer Section

The simplest and safest way to suppress lactation is to let milk production stop on its own.

Suppression of lactation with estrogen or the drug bromocriptine (Parlodel) is no longer recommended due to possible side effects.

To let milk production diminish naturally, don't breast-feed, stimulate your breasts or express milk. To relieve breast engorgement and pain, you might:

Wear a supportive bra
Apply ice packs to your breasts
Take over-the-counter pain relievers