Question

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

Oxymetazoline lactation summary

Oxymetazoline usage has low risk in breastfeeding
  • DrLact safety Score for Oxymetazoline is 3 out of 8 which is considered Low Risk as per our analyses.
  • A safety Score of 3 indicates that usage of Oxymetazoline may cause some minor side effects in breastfed baby.
  • Our study of different scientific research indicates that Oxymetazoline may cause moderate to no side effects in lactating mother.
  • Most of scientific studies and research papers declaring usage of Oxymetazoline low risk in breastfeeding are based on normal dosage and may not hold true for higher dosage.
  • While using Oxymetazoline 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 Oxymetazoline usage in lactation

Sympathomimetic drug that is topically used for treatment of nose or the eye. A fecha de última actualización no encontramos datos publicados en relación con la lactancia. A small dose together with a low plama level of most nasal and ophthalmologic compounds make that a significant excretion into breast milk would be unlikely. Avoid over dosage and do not use it for longer than 3 days: as any other adrenergic-agonist drug, when absorbed, it may be a cause of side effects (vascular hyper-hypotension, irritability, heart arrhythmia) on both the mother and the infant.

Answer by DrLact: About Oxymetazoline usage in lactation

Although no information exists on the use of oxymetazoline specifically during breastfeeding, very little should reach the infant through breastmilk because of the local administration and limited absorption into the maternal bloodstream. It is recommended over oral systemic decongestants such as pseudoephedrine during breastfeeding.[1] Topical use on the face is unlikely to present a risk to the nursing infant.
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.