Papaverine

An alkaloid derived from the opium of the Papaver somniferum plant or prepared synthetically. Not structurally related to the rest of opium alkaloids such as morphine or codeine.
It has a relaxant effect on the vascular system, bronchial musculature and the gastrointestinal, biliary and urinary tracts (American Regent 2017).
Indicated in coronary, pulmonary, peripheral or cerebral vascular spasms and gastrointestinal, ureteral or biliary colic. Oral, intramuscular or intravenous administration every 3 to 12 hours.

Since the last update we have not found published data on its excretion in breastmilk.

Its pharmacokinetic data (large volume of distribution, high percentage of protein binding, short half-life, pKa acid) make transfer to milk in significant quantities unlikely.

Until there is more published data on this drug in relation to breastfeeding, safer known alternatives may be preferable, especially during the neonatal period and in case of prematurity.

Alternatives

• Otilonium Bromide (Very Low Risk)
• Atropine (Very Low Risk)