Question

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

Carbachol lactation summary

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

Systemic absorption is minimal. There have not been associated problems except when a maternal overdose was absorbed. Like most ophthalmologic compounds for topical use a low dose and poor absorption make it compatible with breastfeeding.

Answer by DrLact: About Carbachol usage in lactation

No information is available on the use of carbachol ophthalmic drops during breastfeeding. Because of its short half-life, it is not likely to reach the bloodstream of the infant or cause any adverse effects in breastfed infants.

Carbachol Possible Effects in Breastfeeding

Relevant published information in nursing mothers was not found as of the revision date. In animals, cholinergic drugs increase oxytocin release,[1] and have variable effects on serum prolactin.[2] The prolactin level in a mother with established lactation may not affect her ability to breastfeed.
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.