Is Bromhexine compatible with breastfeeding? Do we have alternatives for Bromhexine?

Bromhexine

July 2, 2015 (Very Low Risk)

At latest update, relevant published data on excretion into breast milk were not found.

Because of high serum protein-binding capacity, excretion into breast milk in significant amount is seemingly unlikely.

Its low oral bioavailability causes a poor absorption into infant's serum as from breast milk, except in prematures and in the early neonatal period in which intestinal absorption may be increased.

Bromhexine is metabolized into Ambroxol. Known adverse reactions are rare and mild. Secretion of Prolactin and other hormones have not been affected by taking this medication.

Effectiveness of this drug has not been established.

Alternatives

Very Low Risk

Compatible. Not risky for breastfeeding or infant.

Low Risk

Moderately safe. Mild risk possible. Follow up recommended. Read the Comment.

High Risk

Poorly safe. Evaluate carefully. Use a safer alternative. Read the Comment.

Very High Risk

Not recommended. Cessation of breastfeeding or alternative.

Writings

  • برومهيكسين (Arabic)
  • Бромгексин (Cyrillic)
  • 溴己新 (Chinese)
  • ブロムヘキシン (Japanese)
  • C14 H20 Br2 N2 (Molecular formula)

Drug trade names

References

  1. Bromhexina. Ficha técnica. 2013 Full text (in our servers)
  2. Vergin H, Bishop-Freudling GB, Miczka M, Nitsche V, Strobel K, Matzkies F. [The pharmacokinetics and bioequivalence of various dosage forms of ambroxol]. Arzneimittelforschung. 1985Abstract
  3. Luerti M, Spagnolo D, Zavattini G, Bianchi C, Barbera AG, Corbella E. Cord blood prolactin and thyroid hormone levels after antenatal administration of betamethasone or ambroxol for prevention of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). Biol Res Pregnancy Perinatol. 1984Abstract
  4. Bechgaard E, Nielsen A. Bioavailability of bromhexine tablets and preliminary pharmacokinetics in humans. Biopharm Drug Dispos. 1982Abstract
  5. Tuimala RJ, Kauppila AJ, Viinikka L, Ylikorkala O. Maternal hormone levels during Na 872 infusion in late pregnancy. Horm Metab Res. 1981Abstract