Is Cyproheptadine safe while breastfeeding?
Here is what NIH LactMed, the U.S. National Library of Medicine's authority on medicines and breastfeeding, reports about Cyproheptadine. This is a summary of that source — not our own verdict.
Effects on the breastfed infant
Relevant published information on cyproheptadine was not found as of the revision date. In one telephone follow-up study, mothers reported irritability and colicky symptoms 10% of infants exposed to various antihistamines and drowsiness was reported in 1.6% of infants. None of the reactions required medical attention and none of the infants were exposed to cyproheptadine.[ 1 ]
Effects on milk supply
Cyproheptadine 16 to 24 mg daily lowers serum prolactin in the treatment of amenorrhea-galactorrhea syndrome because of its antiserotonin activity.[ 2 ] Additionally, antihistamines in relatively high doses given by injection can decrease basal serum prolactin in nonlactating women and in early postpartum women.[ 3 , 4 ] However, suckling-induced prolactin secretion is not affected by antihistamine pretreatment of postpartum mothers.[ 3 ] Whether lower oral doses of cyproheptadine has the same effect on serum prolactin or whether the effects on prolactin have any consequences on breastfeeding success have not been studied. The prolactin level in a mother with established lactation may not affect her ability to breastfeed.
Levels in milk
Maternal Levels. Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date. Infant Levels. Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Alternatives LactMed lists
Source: NIH LactMed (National Library of Medicine).
Educational summary of an authoritative source — not medical advice. Never start, stop, or change a medicine while breastfeeding without confirming with your doctor.