Question

I am a breastfeeding mother and i want to know if it is safe to use Salmeterol? Is Salmeterol safe for nursing mother and child? Does Salmeterol extracts into breast milk? Does Salmeterol has any long term or short term side effects on infants? Can Salmeterol influence milk supply or can Salmeterol decrease milk supply in lactating mothers?

Salmeterol lactation summary

Salmeterol is safe in breastfeeding
  • DrLact safety Score for Salmeterol is 1 out of 8 which is considered Safe as per our analyses.
  • A safety Score of 1 indicates that usage of Salmeterol is mostly safe during lactation for breastfed baby.
  • Our study of different scientific research also indicates that Salmeterol does not cause any serious side effects in breastfeeding mothers.
  • Most of scientific studies and research papers declaring usage of Salmeterol safe in breastfeeding are based on normal dosage and may not hold true for higher dosage.
  • Score calculated using the DrLact safety Version 1.2 model, this score ranges from 0 to 8 and measures overall safety of drug in lactation. Scores are primarily calculated using publicly available case studies, research papers, other scientific journals and publically available data.

Answer by Dr. Ru: About Salmeterol usage in lactation

Long-acting bronchodilator.

 At latest update no published data on excretion into breastmilk were found.

 Because of a high plasma protein-binding capacity and very low or undetectable plasma concentrations observed after inhalation (Cazzola 2002, AEMPS 2012) the excretion into breastmilk in significant amounts is unlikely.
Its low oral bioavailability would hamper the pass to the infant’s plasma through the breastmilk ingested.

 Experts and scientific societies consider the use of Salmeterol during breastfeeding as devoid of risk for the infant (Ellsworth 1994, McDonald 1996, Nelson 2001, National Asthma Education 2004).

 Terbutaline (see specific info), a molecule related to the same group of drugs, is excreted in non-significant amounts into breastmilk.

Answer by DrLact: About Salmeterol usage in lactation

Although no published data exist on the use of salmeterol by mouth or inhaler during lactation, data from the related drug, terbutaline, indicate that very little is expected to be excreted into breastmilk.[1] The authors of several reviews agree that use of inhaled bronchodilators is acceptable during breastfeeding because of the low bioavailability and maternal serum levels after use.[2][3][4][5]
Disclaimer: Information presented in this database is not meant as a substitute for professional judgment. You should consult your healthcare provider for breastfeeding advice related to your particular situation. We do not warrant or assume any liability or responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of the information on this Site.