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Albuterol use while Breastfeeding

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jun 28, 2023.

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Albuterol Levels and Effects while Breastfeeding

Summary of Use during Lactation

Although no published data exist on the use of albuterol by mouth or inhaler during lactation, data from the related drug, terbutaline, indicate that very little is expected to be excreted into breastmilk.[1-3] The authors of several reviews and an expert panel agree that use of inhaled bronchodilators is acceptable during breastfeeding because of the low bioavailability and maternal serum levels after use.[4-6]

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.

Effects on Lactation and Breastmilk

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

Alternate Drugs to Consider

Terbutaline

References

1.
Lindberg C, Boréus LO, de Château P, et al. Transfer of terbutaline into breast milk. Eur J Respir Dis Suppl. 1984;134:87–91. [PubMed: 6586490]
2.
Boréus LO, de Château P, Lindberg C, et al. Terbutaline in breast milk. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 1982;13:731–2. [Letter] [PMC free article: PMC1402089] [PubMed: 7082542]
3.
Lönnerholm G, Lindström B. Terbutaline excretion into breast milk. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 1982;13:729–30. [Letter] [PMC free article: PMC1402083] [PubMed: 7082541]
4.
McDonald CF, Burdon JGW. Asthma in pregnancy and lactation. A position paper for the Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand. Med J Aust. 1996;165:485–8. [PubMed: 8937369]
5.
Taddio A, Ito S. Drugs and breast-feeding. In, Koren G, ed. Maternal-fetal toxicology. A clinician's guide. 3rd ed. New York. Marcel Dekker. 2001:177-32.
6.
National Heart, Lung, and Blood, Institute, et al. NAEPP expert panel report. Managing asthma during pregnancy: recommendations for pharmacologic treatment-2004 update. 2004:1-57. doi: 10.1016/j.jaci.2004.10.023. [PubMed: 15637545] [CrossRef]

Substance Identification

Substance Name

Albuterol

CAS Registry Number

18559-94-9

Drug Class

Breast Feeding

Lactation

Milk, Human

Anti-Asthmatic Agents

Bronchodilator Agents

Beta Adrenergic Agonists

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.

Further information

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