Is Glycopyrrolate 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 Glycopyrrolate. The text below is quoted from that source — it is not our own verdict.
Summary of use during breastfeeding
No information is available on the use of glycopyrrolate during breastfeeding. Because glycopyrrolate is a quaternary ammonium compound, it is not likely to be absorbed and reach the bloodstream of the infant, especially when given by inhalation or topically on the skin.[1-3] Long-term oral use of glycopyrrolate might reduce milk production or milk letdown, but a single dose is unlikely to interfere with breastfeeding. During long-term use, observe for signs of decreased lactation such as poor weight gain. The inhaled form of glycopyrrolate has not been studied, but is unlikely to cause effects in the breastfed infant or on milk production.
Effects on the breastfed infant
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Effects on milk supply
Relevant published information in nursing mothers was not found as of the revision date. Anticholinergics can inhibit lactation in animals, apparently by inhibiting growth hormone and oxytocin secretion.[4-8] Anticholinergic drugs can also reduce serum prolactin in nonnursing women.[9] The prolactin level in a mother with established lactation may not affect her ability to breastfeed.
Levels in milk
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.
Source: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed), National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), via NCBI Bookshelf, record “Glycopyrrolate” (LM594). 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.