These include the infant
with galactosemia, 53,54 the infant
whose mother uses illegal drugs, 55 the infant
whose mother has untreated active tuberculosis, and the infant in the United States
whose mother has been infected
with the human immunodeficiency
virus.56, 57 In countries
with populations at increased risk for other infectious diseases and nutritional deficiencies resulting in infant death, the mortality risks associated
with not breastfeeding may outweigh the possible risks of acquiring human immunodeficiency
virus infection.58 Although most prescribed and over-the-counter medications are safe for the breastfed infant, there are a few medications that mothers may need to take that may make it necessary to interrupt breastfeeding temporarily.