Is Carvedilol safe while breastfeeding?
Here is what LactMed, the Drugs and Lactation Database published by the U.S. National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), reports about Carvedilol. The text below is quoted from that source — it is not our own verdict.
Summary of use during breastfeeding
No published information is available on the use of carvedilol during breastfeeding. Based on its physicochemical properties, carvedilol appears to present a low-risk to the breastfed infant. Because there is no published experience with carvedilol during breastfeeding, other agents may be preferred, especially while nursing a newborn or preterm infant.
Effects on the breastfed infant
A study of mothers taking beta-blockers during nursing found a numerically, but not statistically significant increased number of adverse reactions in those taking any beta-blocker. Although the ages of infants were matched to control infants, the ages of the affected infants were not stated. None of the mothers were taking carvedilol.[2]
Effects on milk supply
Relevant published information on the effects of beta-blockade or carvedilol during normal lactation was not found as of the revision date. A study in 6 patients with hyperprolactinemia and galactorrhea found no changes in serum prolactin levels following beta-adrenergic blockade with propranolol.[3]
Levels in milk
The excretion of beta-adrenergic blocking drugs into breastmilk is largely determined by their protein binding. Those with low binding are more extensively excreted into breastmilk.[1] Accumulation of the drugs in the infant is related to the fraction excreted in urine. With 95% protein binding, 1% renal excretion and a moderately long half-life, carvedilol presents a low risk for accumulation in infants.
Maternal Levels. Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Infant Levels. Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Alternatives LactMed lists
Carvedilol in pregnancy
LactMed covers breastfeeding only. For what the NHS and the US prescribing label say about pregnancy, see:
Source: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed), National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), via NCBI Bookshelf, record “Carvedilol” (LM286). LactMed on NCBI Bookshelf. LactMed is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Educational summary of an authoritative source — not medical advice. Never start, stop, or change a medicine while breastfeeding without confirming with your doctor.