Chlorthalidone use while Breastfeeding

Drugs containing Chlorthalidone: Edarbyclor, Tenoretic, Hygroton, Thalitone, Tenoretic 50, Clorpres, Tenoretic 100, Regroton, Demi-Regroton

Chlorthalidone Levels and Effects while Breastfeeding

Summary of Use during Lactation

Although amounts of chlorthalidone in milk are not great, its slow clearance may lead to accumulation in the infant, especially while nursing a newborn or preterm infant. It may also suppress lactation. An alternate drug may be preferred.

Drug Levels

Maternal Levels. In 7 women taking 50 mg of oral chlorthalidone daily prior to and after delivery, milk levels 3 days after delivery (collection times unspecified) ranged from 90 to 860 mcg/L. The authors estimated that the infant would receive about 180 mcg daily of chlorthalidone from milk at this maternal dosage.[1] This would amount to about 6% of the maternal weight-adjusted dosage.

Infant Levels. Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.

Effects in Breastfed Infants

Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.

Possible Effects on Lactation

Chlorthalidone has been used successfully to suppress lactation by giving 200 mg orally right after delivery, followed by 100 mg dailyy for 3 days in conjunction with fluid restriction and breast binding.[2] However, a comparative study found no difference between chlorthalidone 200 mg daily for 7.6 days and placebo in milk leakage and breast engorgement and pain.[3] The added contribution of the diuretic to fluid restriction and breast binding, which are effective in suppressing lactation, has not been studied. There are no data on the effects of diuretics on established, ongoing lactation.

Alternate Drugs to Consider

Chlorothiazide, Hydrochlorothiazide

References

1. Mulley BA, Parr GD, Pau WK et al. Placental transfer of chlorthalidone and its elminination in maternal milk. Eur J Clin Pharmacol. 78;13:129-31. PMID: 658109

2. Reiher KH. [Suppression of lactation by stimulation of diuresis]. Zentralbl Gynakol. 1963;85:188-90. PMID: 13973786

3. Vercruysse J. [Inhibition of lactation. Comparative study of an estro-androgen and of a diuretic]. Brux Med. 1966;46:1258-66. PMID: 6011090

Chlorthalidone Identification

Substance Name

Chlorthalidone

CAS Registry Number

77-36-1

Drug Class

• Antihypertensive Agents
• Thiazide Diuretics

Administrative Information

LactMed Record Number

67

Information from the National Library of Medicine's LactMed Database.

Last Revision Date

2012-01-03

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...

• Chlorthalidone use during Pregnancy
• Chlorthalidone 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.