Colesevelam Hydrochloride

Resin-polymer that decreases the intestinal absorption of bile acids and cholesterol.
Oral administration once or twice a day.

At the date of last update, we did not find data published in relation to breastfeeding.

The intestinal absorption of the drug is zero (EMA 2017, Heller 2002, Steinmetz 2002), so it can not pass into breast milk, nor pass to infant plasma from breast milk ingested.

It is unlikely that it can alter the lipid composition of milk. Infants need to ingest high amounts of cholesterol, as it is essential for the proper development of the nervous system, cell membranes and is a precursor of several hormones and vitamins.

It seems to interfere less than other lipid-lowering resins with the absorption of liposoluble vitamins (A, D, E, K).

Several experts consider the use of this medication probably safe during breastfeeding (Hale 2017 p232, Briggs 2015).

It is advisable to follow a lipid-lowering diet.
Stopping the pharmacological treatment of hypercholesterolemia during the lactation period is not likely to significantly alter the long-term outcome of the disease.

Alternatives

• Colestipol (Very Low Risk)
• Colestyramine (Very Low Risk)