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

Salmeterol

July 20, 2017 (Very Low Risk)

Long-acting bronchodilator.



At latest update no published data on excretion into breastmilk were found.



Because of a high plasma protein-binding capacity and very low or undetectable plasma concentrations observed after inhalation (Cazzola 2002, AEMPS 2012) the excretion into breastmilk in significant amounts is unlikely.

Its low oral bioavailability would hamper the pass to the infant’s plasma through the breastmilk ingested.



Experts and scientific societies consider the use of Salmeterol during breastfeeding as devoid of risk for the infant (Ellsworth 1994, McDonald 1996, Nelson 2001, National Asthma Education 2004).



Terbutaline (see specific info), a molecule related to the same group of drugs, is excreted in non-significant amounts into breastmilk.


See below the information of this related product:

Alternatives

We do not have alternatives for Salmeterol since it is relatively safe.

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

  • Salmeterol Xinafoate

Writings

  • Салметерола Ксинафоат (Cyrillic)
  • C25H37NO4,C11H8O3 (Molecular formula)

Drug trade names

References

  1. PDR.net Fluticasone-Salmeterol Drug Summary 2013 Full text (in our servers)
  2. AEMPS. Salmeterol. Ficha técnica. 2012 Full text (in our servers)
  3. Chen LH, Zeind C, Mackell S, LaPointe T, Mutsch M, Wilson ME. Breastfeeding travelers: precautions and recommendations. J Travel Med. 2010Abstract Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
  4. National Asthma Education and Prevention Program Asthma and Pregnancy Working Group. Managing asthma during pregnancy: recommendations for pharmacologic treatment-2004 update. 2004;1-57. 2004 Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
  5. National Asthma Education and Prevention Program Asthma and Pregnancy Working Group. Quick Reference from the Working Group Report on Managing asthma during pregnancy: recommendations for pharmacologic treatment-2004 update. 2004;1-12. 2004 Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
  6. Cazzola M, Testi R, Matera MG. Clinical pharmacokinetics of salmeterol. Clin Pharmacokinet. 2002Abstract
  7. Nelson-Piercy C. Asthma in pregnancy. Thorax. 2001Abstract Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
  8. McDonald CF, Burdon JG. Asthma in pregnancy and lactation. A position paper for the Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand. Med J Aust. 1996Abstract
  9. Ellsworth A. Pharmacotherapy of asthma while breastfeeding. J Hum Lact. 1994Abstract
  10. Lindberg C, Boréus LO, de Château P, Lindström B, Lönnerholm G, Nyberg L. Transfer of terbutaline into breast milk. Eur J Respir Dis Suppl. 1984Abstract
  11. Lönnerholm G, Lindström B. Terbutaline excretion into breast milk. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 1982Abstract Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
  12. Boréus LO, de Château PU. Terbutaline in breast milk. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 1982Abstract Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)