Is Taking Fenoglide While Breastfeeding Safe?
At this time, it is unknown if
Fenoglide® (
fenofibrate) is safe for use during breastfeeding. According to the prescribing information, breastfeeding is a "contraindication" to Fenoglide; this means that nursing women should not take this particular medication. Therefore, you should talk with your healthcare provider before taking this medication if you are breastfeeding or plan to start.
Fenoglide has been shown to be a possible carcinogen in rats. It is not a good idea to expose a developing infant to a possible carcinogen. This is the main concern about breastfeeding while taking Fenoglide.
No research has been done to see if Fenoglide passes through breast milk in humans. However, based on its chemical structure, it is thought that the drug probably does pass through breast milk.
Fenoglide can be used to treat either
high cholesterol or
high triglycerides. The
effects of high cholesterol do not cause problems for many years, or even decades. Therefore, it should be expected that if a woman does not take
cholesterol medicine while breastfeeding, it will have little impact on any long-term risks. However, the effects of very high
triglycerides can cause immediate problems, and you may need to be treated for very high triglycerides while breastfeeding (even if this means you must stop breastfeeding).
Talking With Your Healthcare Provider
You should talk with your healthcare provider about breastfeeding while taking Fenoglide.
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 about Fenoglide and breastfeeding that is right for you.
