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

Phenylpropanolamine

September 4, 2014 (High Risk)

Appears as part of many compounds for cough relief, mucolytics, expectorants and nose decongestants. Single drug (one active principle only) medicines should be preferred mostly while breastfeeding.

On latest update relevant data on breastfeeding was not found.

Pharmacokinetic data indicates that drug excretion into breast milk may occur.

Withheld from marketing in many countries because of hypertension and severe side effects.

Alternatives

We do not have alternatives for Phenylpropanolamine.

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.

Drug trade names

References

  1. Nice FJ, Snyder JL, Kotansky BC. Breastfeeding and over-the-counter medications. J Hum Lact. 2000Abstract
  2. Kanfer I, Dowse R, Vuma V. Pharmacokinetics of oral decongestants. Pharmacotherapy. 1993Abstract
  3. Scherzinger SS, Dowse R, Kanfer I. Steady state pharmacokinetics and dose-proportionality of phenylpropanolamine in healthy subjects. J Clin Pharmacol. 1990Abstract
  4. Kristiansson B, Abdul Ghani N, Eriksson M, Garle M, Qirbi A. Use of khat in lactating women: a pilot study on breast-milk secretion. J Ethnopharmacol. 1987Abstract