Question

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

Ezetimibe lactation summary

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

Reduces intestinal absorption of cholesterol and phytosterols (AEMPS 2016, Merck 2007). Since the last update we have not found published data in relation to breastfeeding. Its high binding to plasma proteins makes it unlikely it will pass into breast milk. Cholesterol levels in milk are very stable even in hypercholesterolemic women and are not severely affected by diet or nutritional status of the mother, suggesting that 3 is synthesized, at least in part, in the mammary gland (Lawrence 2016, p 289-90).It is not probable therefore, but it is not known if Ezetimibe is able to alter the lipid composition of the milk. Infants need to ingest large amounts of cholesterol, as it is critical to the proper development of the nervous system, cell membranes and is a precursor of several hormones and vitamins. Until there is more data in relation to breastfeeding, it is prudent to avoid using it, at least while breastfeeding exclusively. Suspending the pharmacological treatment of hyperlipidemia during breastfeeding is not likely to alter the long-term outcome of the disease, especially when breastfeeding can be considered therapeutic (Lawrence 2016, p.393). It is advisable to follow a lipid-lowering diet.

Answer by DrLact: About Ezetimibe usage in lactation

No relevant published information exists on the use of ezetimibe during breastfeeding. Because of a concern with disruption of infant lipid metabolism, ezetimibe is best avoided during breastfeeding. An alternate drug is preferred, especially while nursing a newborn or preterm infant. Ezetimibe treatment in combination with a statin (e.g., atorvastatin, simvastatin) should be avoided in nursing mothers.
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.