Question

I am a breastfeeding mother and i want to know if it is safe to use RU 486? Is RU 486 safe for nursing mother and child? Does RU 486 extracts into breast milk? Does RU 486 has any long term or short term side effects on infants? Can RU 486 influence milk supply or can RU 486 decrease milk supply in lactating mothers?

RU 486 lactation summary

RU 486 usage has low risk in breastfeeding
  • DrLact safety Score for RU 486 is 3 out of 8 which is considered Low Risk as per our analyses.
  • A safety Score of 3 indicates that usage of RU 486 may cause some minor side effects in breastfed baby.
  • Our study of different scientific research indicates that RU 486 may cause moderate to no side effects in lactating mother.
  • Most of scientific studies and research papers declaring usage of RU 486 low risk in breastfeeding are based on normal dosage and may not hold true for higher dosage.
  • While using RU 486 We suggest monitoring child for possible reactions. It is also important to understand that side effects vary largely based on age of breastfed child and time of medication in addition to 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 RU 486 usage in lactation

Antiprogestin which derives from Norethisterone that is used for abortion, both as an abortifacient and induction of labor. Its high plasma protein-binding capacity explains that excretion into breast milk is clinically non-significant. It achieves very low levels in breast milk at a maternal dose of 600 mg or undetectable at maternal dose of 200 mg. RU 486 does not interfere with the secretion of Prolactin. Some authors found that it may facilitate the early initiation of breastfeeding. As in addition it is usually used for short periods, stopping breastfeeding is not required. When used with semi-experimental purposes due to its anti-androgenic and antiglucocorticoid properties a continuous administration and / or large doses is required. There is no experience in connection with breastfeeding. Those pathologies in which it is often used on a continuous basis by themselves are not compatible with breastfeeding.

Answer by DrLact: About RU 486 usage in lactation

Limited information indicates that breastfeeding need not be interrupted after a single dose of RU 486. A dose of 200 mg might be preferable to a 600 mg dose in nursing mothers

RU 486 Possible Effects in Breastfeeding

Based on animal data, some authors suggest that RU 486 used at term might shorten the onset of lactation, increase milk flow and increase the initial growth rate of breastfed infants.[2][3][4] However, no human data are available.
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.