Promethazine use while Breastfeeding
Drugs containing Promethazine: Phenergan, Promethazine with Codeine, Promethazine DM, Phenergan with Codeine, Promethazine VC with Codeine, Promethazine VC Plain, Promethegan, Phenadoz, Promethazine VC, Mepergan, Show all 31 »
Promethazine Levels and Effects while Breastfeeding
Summary of Use during Lactation
Based on minimal excretion of other phenothiazine derivatives, it appears that occasional short-term use of promethazine for the treatment of nausea and vomiting poses little risk to the breastfed infant. With repeated doses, observe infants for excess sedation. Because promethazine can lower basal prolactin secretion, promethazine might interfere with the establishment of lactation if given in the early postpartum period. An antiemetic without a potent histamine blocking action is preferred in the newborn period.
Drug Levels
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
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Possible Effects on Lactation
Unlike most phenothiazines, promethazine usually causes a reduction in basal prolactin secretion in nonnursing women.[1][2] The effect on nursing mothers is not known, but promethazine might interfere with the establishment of lactation if given in the early postpartum period. The prolactin level in a mother with established lactation may not affect her ability to breastfeed.
Alternate Drugs to Consider
References
1. Messinis IE, Souvatzoglou A, Fais N et al. Histamine H1 receptor participation in the control of prolactin secretion in postpartum. J Endocrinol Invest. 1985;8:143-6. PMID: 3928731
2. Pontiroli AE, De Castro e Silva E, Mazzoleni F et al. The effect of histamine and H1 and H2 receptors on prolactin and luteinizing hormone release in humans: sex differences and the role of stress. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 1981;52:924-8. PMID: 7228996
Promethazine Identification
Substance Name
CAS Registry Number
60-87-7
Drug Class
- Antiemetics
- Phenothiazines
Administrative Information
LactMed Record Number
228
Information from the National Library of Medicine's LactMed Database.
Last Revision Date
2011-01-04
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...
- Promethazine use during Pregnancy
- Promethazine 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.
