Although no published data exist on the use of formoterol by 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.[4-7]
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.
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.
Nelson-Piercy C. Asthma in pregnancy. Thorax. 2001;56:325–8. [PMC free article: PMC1746013] [PubMed: 11254828]
6.
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.
7.
National Institutes of Health. National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. Evidence-based management of sickle cell disease. Expert panel report. 2014.
Substance Identification
Substance Name
Formoterol
CAS Registry Number
73573-87-2
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.
