Is Acebutolol Safe for Breastfeeding Women?
Acebutolol hydrochloride (
Sectral®) passes through breast milk in humans and is generally not recommended for breastfeeding women. Acebutolol is a
beta blocker medication that can affect the blood vessels and the heart. It could potentially cause problems in a breastfed infant. Therefore, you should talk with your healthcare provider before taking acebutolol if you are breastfeeding or plan to start.
What Does the Research Say?
Studies have shown that acebutolol passes through breast milk in significant amounts, probably enough to cause problems (such as a slow heart rate or low
blood pressure) in the breastfed infant. Therefore, if your healthcare provider decides that it is okay for you to take this product while breastfeeding, your infant should be monitored to make sure that no serious problems occur. In most cases, this medication is not recommended for breastfeeding women, and alternative medications are usually chosen.
Talking With Your Healthcare Provider
You should talk with your healthcare provider about breastfeeding while taking acebutolol. Each woman's situation is different, and you and your healthcare provider understand your situation best. After considering what you want and expect, as well as your current health situation, the two of you can make a shared decision that is right for you.
