Dronabinol is the synthetic form of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the major active component of cannabis. Low levels of THC are found in the breastmilk of mothers who use cannabis products.[1-5] If a mother requires dronabinol, it is not a reason to discontinue breastfeeding, but because no published information is available with dronabinol use as an antiemetic during breastfeeding, an alternate antiemetic is preferred. For further information, see the LactMed record on Cannabis.
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.
Bertrand KA, Hanan NJ, Honerkamp-Smith G, et al. Marijuana use by breastfeeding mothers and cannabinoid concentrations in breast milk. Pediatrics 2018;142:e20181076 [PMC free article: PMC6317767] [PubMed: 30150212]
2.
Baker T, Datta P, Rewers-Felkins K, et al. Transfer of inhaled cannabis into human breast milk. Obstet Gynecol 2018;131:783-8 [PubMed: 29630019]
3.
Wymore EM, Palmer C, Wang GS, et al. Persistence of Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol in human breast milk. JAMA Pediatr 2021;175:632-4 [PMC free article: PMC7941249] [PubMed: 33683306]
4.
Moss MJ, Bushlin I, Kazmierczak S, et al. Cannabis use and measurement of cannabinoids in plasma and breast milk of breastfeeding mothers. Pediatr Res 2021;90:861-8 [PubMed: 33469174]
5.
Holdsworth EA, Berim A, Gang DR, et al. Human milk cannabinoid concentrations and associations with maternal factors: The Lactation and Cannabis (LAC) study. Breastfeed Med 2024;19:515-24 [PubMed: 38695182]
Substance Identification
Substance Name
Dronabinol
CAS Registry Number
1972-08-3
Drug Class
Breast Feeding
Lactation
Milk, Human
Antiemetics
Cannabinoids
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.
