Colestipol

High molecular weight 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 (Aemps 2016, Pfizer 2013), so it can not pass into breast milk, nor pass to infant plasma from breast milk ingested. Its high molecular weight makes the passage of significant amounts into breast milk very unlikely.

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.

Prolonged use can cause plasma deficiency, due to lack of absorption, of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) so it may be advisable to supplement to avoid deficiency of these vitamins in breast milk

Several experts and expert consensus consider safe or probably safe the use of this medication during lactation (Hale 2017 p233, Lawrence 2016 p393, Serrano 2015, 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

• Colestyramine (Very Low Risk)
• Colesevelam Hydrochloride (Very Low Risk)