Bethanechol Levels and Effects while Breastfeeding
Summary of Use during Lactation
No information is available on the use of bethanechol during breastfeeding. If it is used during breastfeeding, monitor the infant for signs of cholinergic excess (diarrhea, lacrimation, and excessive salivation or urination), especially in younger, exclusively breastfed infants.
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 in nursing mothers was not found as of the revision date. In animals, cholinergic drugs increase oxytocin release, and have variable effects on serum prolactin.[1,2] The prolactin level in a mother with established lactation may not affect her ability to breastfeed.
Clarke G, Fall CH, Lincoln DW, et al. Effects of cholinoceptor antagonists on the suckling-induced and experimentally evoked release of oxytocin. Br J Pharmacol. 1978;63:519–27. [PMC free article: PMC1668097] [PubMed: 566601]
2.
Müller EE, Locatelli V, Cella S, et al. Prolactin-lowering and -releasing drugs: Mechanisms of action and therapeutic applications. Drugs. 1983;25:399–432. [PubMed: 6133737]
Substance Identification
Substance Name
Bethanechol
CAS Registry Number
674-38-4
Drug Class
Breast Feeding
Lactation
Muscarinic Agonists
Parasympathomimetics
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.
