Carvedilol use while Breastfeeding
Drugs containing Carvedilol: Coreg, Coreg CR
Carvedilol Levels and Effects while Breastfeeding
Summary of Use during Lactation
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.
Drug Levels
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.
Effects in Breastfed Infants
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]
Possible Effects on Lactation
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]
Alternate Drugs to Consider
Propranolol, Labetalol, Metoprolol
References
1. Riant P, Urien S, Albengres E et al. High plasma protein binding as a parameter in the selection of betablockers for lactating women. Biochem Pharmacol. 1986;35:4579-81. PMID: 2878668
2. Ho TK, Moretti ME, Schaeffer JK et al. Maternal beta-blocker usage and breast feeding in the neonate. Pediatr Res. 1999;45:67A. Abstract 385.
3. Board JA, Fierro RJ, Wasserman AJ et al. Effects of alpha- and beta-adrenergic blocking agents on serum prolactin levels in women with hyperprolactinemia and galactorrhea. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 1977;127:285-7. PMID: 556882
Carvedilol Identification
Substance Name
CAS Registry Number
72956-09-3
Drug Class
- Antihypertensive Agents
- Adrenergic Beta-Antagonists
- Antirrhythmics
Administrative Information
LactMed Record Number
286
Information from the National Library of Medicine's LactMed Database.
Last Revision Date
2011-07-05
Disclaimer
Information presented in this database is not meant as a substitute for professional judgment. You should consult your healthcare provider for breastfeeding advice related to your particular situation. The U.S. government does not warrant or assume any liability or responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of the information on this Site.
See Also...
- Carvedilol use during Pregnancy
- Carvedilol Consumer Information
- Breastfeeding Support Group
- Safe Medications during Breastfeeding
- Medicine use while Breastfeeding
- Medicine use during Pregnancy
Disclaimer: This information is not intended as a substitute for professional judgment. You should consult your healthcare provider for breastfeeding advice related to your particular situation. Use of this website signifies your agreement to the Terms of Use and Online Privacy Policy.
