Minoxidil use while Breastfeeding
Drugs containing Minoxidil: Loniten, Rogaine, Rogaine Women's, Hair Regrowth Treatment for Women, Rogaine Men's Extra Strength, Ronoxidil, Rogaine Extra Strength
Minoxidil Levels and Effects while Breastfeeding
Summary of Use during Lactation
Because of the minimal amount of information on this potent agent, use minoxidil with caution, particularly when therapy involves a large dosage or in newborns. Topical minoxidil should pose low risk to the breastfed infant.
Drug Levels
Maternal Levels. In one case report, a 2-month-postpartum mother who was taking minoxidil 5 mg twice daily was given a, oral dose of 7.5 mg. The peak milk level of minoxidil plus glucuronide conjugate was 45.1 mcg/L at 1 hour after the dose. Milk levels paralleled serum levels, falling rapidly after the first hour to a concentration of 12.4 mcg/L at 3 hours, 4 mcg/L at 6 hours, 1.9 mcg/L at 9 hours, 0.8 mcg/L at 12 hours after the dose. [1] Infant Levels. Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Effects in Breastfed Infants
No hypertrichosis or other abnormal signs were seen in one infant breastfed for 2 months of maternal minoxidil therapy.[1]
Possible Effects on Lactation
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Alternate Drugs to Consider
Enalapril, Hydrochlorothiazide, Methyldopa, Propranolol
References
1. Valdivieso A, Valdes G, Spiro TE et al. Minoxidil in breast milk. Ann Intern Med. 1985;102:135. Letter. PMID: 3966734
Minoxidil Identification
Substance Name
CAS Registry Number
38304-91-5
Drug Class
- Antihypertensive Agents
- Vasodilator Agents
Administrative Information
LactMed Record Number
184
Information from the National Library of Medicine's LactMed Database.
Last Revision Date
2012-10-02
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...
- Minoxidil use during Pregnancy
- Minoxidil topical use during Pregnancy
- Minoxidil Consumer Information
- Minoxidil foam (for men) 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.
