Is Somatrem 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 Somatrem. The text below is quoted from that source — it is not our own verdict.
Summary of use during breastfeeding
Because somatrem is poorly absorbed orally, it is not likely to reach the bloodstream of the infant or cause any adverse effects in breastfed infants. However, there is no published experience with somatrem during breastfeeding, so an alternate drug may be preferred, especially while nursing a newborn or preterm infant. The closely related recombinant human growth hormone, somatropin, has been reported to increase milk production.
Effects on the breastfed infant
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Effects on milk supply
A study in 30 pregnant women found that the mean maternal serum growth hormone level progressively increased from an average of 0.2 mIU/L at 36 weeks’ gestation to a peak value of 0.9 mIU/L on postpartum day 3, with levels decreasing to 0.2 mIU/L by postpartum day 4. In vitro studies found that growth hormone increases the metabolism of mammary epithelial cells by increasing mitochondrial activity.[1]
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.
Alternatives LactMed lists
Source: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed), National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), via NCBI Bookshelf, record “Somatrem” (LM609). 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.