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

Fluoxetine

July 1, 2015 (Low Risk)

Higher excretion into breast milk than other related antidepressant drugs. The active metabolite called Norfluoxetine has a longer half-life (4 to 16 days). Like other antidepressant drugs may induce hyperprolactinemia and galactorrhea.

Few cases of colicky pain, irritability, insomnia, anorexia and slow weight gain have been described. However, most reported cases have failed to show harm effect outside the newborn period. Large experience with the use of Fluoxatine did not find harm effect on weight gain and neurological development of infants either at short or long term.

Most problems have appeared in the early neonatal period either in newborns or premature infants whose mothers were on Fluoxetine during pregnancy. Stop or switch to other medication either at some days before delivery or in the first month postpartum would be recommended. Same considerations should be done in case of prematurity, however, medication must be continued if necessary.

Women on anti-depressant treatment are in need of stronger support because of higher risk of breastfeeding failure.

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.

Synonyms

  • Fluoxetine Hydrochloride
  • Lilly-103472
  • LY-110140

Writings

  • Φλουοξετίνη υδροχλωρική (Greek)
  • Флуоксетина Гидрохлорид (Cyrillic)
  • 塩酸フルオキセチン (Japanese)

Drug trade names

References

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