Metoprolol and Breastfeeding

Since only a small amount of metoprolol passes through breast milk, the Academy of Pediatrics believes that this beta blocker is compatible with breastfeeding. However, there is some concern that the drug could cause low blood pressure or other issues in a nursing child. If your healthcare recommends breastfeeding while on metoprolol, be sure to watch for signs of problems in your infant.

Metoprolol and Breastfeeding: An Overview

Metoprolol (Lopressor^®, Toprol-XL^®) passes through breast milk in humans. Metoprolol is a "beta blocker" medication that can lower blood pressure and decrease the heart rate. It could potentially cause problems in a nursing infant. Therefore, you should talk with your healthcare provider before taking this drug if you are breastfeeding or plan to start.

Is It Safe to Breastfeed While Taking Metoprolol?

The Academy of Pediatrics considers metoprolol compatible with breastfeeding. Only a small amount of the drug passes through breast milk. However, problems such as a dangerously slow heart rate or very low blood pressure could occur. Therefore, if your healthcare provider decides that it is okay for you to take this medication while breastfeeding, your infant should be monitored to make sure that no serious problems develop.

Avoiding breastfeeding for three or four hours after a metoprolol dosage could decrease the potential risks to the infant. However, this would only work with the immediate-release version (Lopressor^®), not the extended-release version (Toprol-XL^®).

Talking With Your Healthcare Provider

You should talk with your healthcare provider about breastfeeding and metoprolol.

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.