Orlistat is poorly absorbed orally, but a small amount has been detected in the milk of one woman. It is unlikely that orlistat will be absorbed by the infant in amounts that would adversely affect the breastfed infant. Because it inhibits the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, mothers using it should take a multivitamin supplement at bedtime.
Drug Levels
Maternal Levels. Orlistat was detected in the milk of one mother at a concentration of 2.3 ng/gram of milk. Because milk donors were anonymized in the study, it was not known if the mother was taking orlistat or at what dose.[1]
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.
Musatadi M., Gonzalez-Gaya B., Irazola M., et al. Multi-target analysis and suspect screening of xenobiotics in milk by UHPLC-HRMS/MS. Separations. 2021;8 [CrossRef]
Substance Identification
Substance Name
Orlistat
CAS Registry Number
96829-58-2
Drug Class
Breast Feeding
Lactation
Enzyme Inhibitors
Anti-Obesity Agents
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.
