Tolbutamide Levels and Effects while Breastfeeding
Summary of Use during Lactation
Tolbutamide is no longer marketed in the United States. It is excreted into breastmilk in small amounts that should cause no harm to the breastfed infant. Monitor breastfed infants for signs of hypoglycemia such as jitteriness, excessive sleepiness, poor feeding, seizures cyanosis, apnea, or hypothermia. If there is concern, monitoring of the breastfed infant's blood glucose is advisable during maternal therapy with hypoglycemic agents.[1,2]
Drug Levels
Maternal Levels. In 2 women who were 3 days postpartum, milk levels were measured 4 hours after ingestion of a 500 mg dose of tolbutamide. Milk levels averaged 18 mg/L in one and 3 mg/L in the other.[3]
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.
Everett JA. Use of oral antidiabetic agents during breastfeeding. J Hum Lact 1997;13:319-21 [PubMed: 9429368]
2.
Berlin CM, Briggs GG. Drugs and chemicals in human milk. Semin Fetal Neonatal Med 2005;10:149-59 [PubMed: 15701580]
3.
Moiel RH, Ryan JR. Tolbutamide orinase in human breast milk. Clin Pediatr (Phila) 1967;6:480 [PubMed: 6029660]
Substance Identification
Substance Name
Tolbutamide
CAS Registry Number
64-77-7
Drug Class
Breast Feeding
Lactation
Milk, Human
Hypoglycemic Agents
Sulfonylurea Compounds
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.
