Is Sibutramine 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 Sibutramine. The text below is quoted from that source — it is not our own verdict.
Summary of use during breastfeeding
Sibutramine is no longer marketed in the United States. Because there is no published experience with sibutramine during breastfeeding, an alternate therapy may be preferred, especially while nursing a newborn or preterm infant. Information on the effect of sibutramine on serum prolactin is somewhat conflicting.
Effects on the breastfed infant
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Effects on milk supply
In a study of hypocaloric diet plus sibutramine in overweight and obese patients with polycystic ovary syndrome, no change was seen in serum prolactin levels over the 6-month study period.[1]
A woman developed amenorrhea-galactorrhea syndrome shortly after starting therapy with sibutramine for weight loss. Her serum prolactin was elevated, but returned to normal within 15 days of discontinuing sibutramine. It remained in the normal range during the 180-day follow-up period.[2]
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 “Sibutramine” (LM1000). 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.