Nadolol and Breastfeeding

Is Nadolol Safe for Breastfeeding Women?

Nadolol (Corgard^®) passes through breast milk in humans. It is a beta blocker medication that can lower blood pressure and decrease the heart rate. It could potentially cause problems in a breastfed infant. Therefore, you should talk with your healthcare provider before taking nadolol if you are breastfeeding or plan to start.

 

What Does the Research Say?

Research has shown that nadolol passes through breast milk. Additionally, because of the way the body handles the medication, infants are at risk for accumulating the drug in the body (since their kidneys are not able to adequately remove the drug from the body).

 

Because problems such as a dangerously slow heart rate or very low blood pressure could occur, nadolol should be used with caution in breastfeeding women. Therefore, if your healthcare provider decides that it is okay for you to take this drug while breastfeeding, your infant should be monitored to make sure that no serious problems occur. Other alternative medications (including other beta blockers) may be preferred over nadolol for nursing women.

 

Talking With Your Healthcare Provider About Breastfeeding and Nadolol

You should talk with your healthcare provider about breastfeeding while taking nadolol. 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.