Is metformin secreted in breast milk?

Metformin and Breast Milk: What You Need to Know
Metformin, a widely used medication for managing type 2 diabetes, has raised questions regarding its safety for breastfeeding mothers and their infants. A significant concern for nursing mothers is whether this medication is secreted in breast milk and, if so, what implications it may have for their babies.
Presence of Metformin in Breast Milk
Research indicates that metformin does indeed pass into breast milk, albeit in very small amounts. Studies have shown that the concentrations of metformin in breast milk are low, with estimates suggesting that infants may receive less than 0.5% of the maternal dose when breastfeeding. Specifically, some studies report that the infant’s exposure to metformin can be as low as 0.28% of the mother’s weight-adjusted dosage.
Clinical Significance of Metformin Levels
The amounts of metformin found in breast milk are considered clinically insignificant. According to a study published in *Obstetrics & Gynecology*, while metformin is excreted into breast milk, the levels are low enough that they have not been linked to any adverse effects in breastfed infants. The consistent low levels of metformin in milk during maternal use suggest that the timing of breastfeeding relative to medication intake is not a significant concern.
Safety for Nursing Infants
Health organizations, including the NHS, have stated that metformin is safe for lactating mothers. The low concentrations in breast milk have not been associated with side effects in breastfed babies. This reassurance is crucial for mothers managing diabetes or insulin resistance while nursing, as it allows them to continue their treatment without undue worry about harming their infants.
Conclusion
In summary, metformin is secreted into breast milk in minimal amounts that are unlikely to affect nursing infants adversely. The consensus among healthcare professionals is that it is safe for breastfeeding mothers to continue using metformin, provided they follow their healthcare provider’s guidance. As always, mothers should consult with their doctors regarding any concerns about medication use during breastfeeding to ensure both their health and that of their child.

What drugs are excreted in breast milk?

• analgesics and antipyretics: short courses of paracetamol, acetylsalicylic acid, ibuprofen;
• antibiotics: ampicillin, amoxicillin, cloxacillin and other penicillins, erythromycin.
• bronchodilators (e.g. salbutamol), corticosteroids, antihistamines, antacids.

What hormones are passed through breast milk?

The primary breastfeeding hormones are estrogen, progesterone, oxytocin, and prolactin.

Can metformin affect my baby?

A study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology demonstrates that when the diabetes drug metformin is given to the mother during pregnancy, fetus growth is restricted, including a slowed maturing of the kidneys, which has been linked to a higher risk of obesity and insulin resistance in childhood …

Why does metformin increase lactate?

The pathophysiology of lactic acidosis from metformin is likely due to inhibition of gluconeogenesis by blocking pyruvate carboxylase, the first step of gluconeogenesis, which converts pyruvate to oxaloacetate. Blocking this enzyme leads to accumulation of lactic acid.

How does metformin affect the baby?

A study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology demonstrates that when the diabetes drug metformin is given to the mother during pregnancy, fetus growth is restricted, including a slowed maturing of the kidneys, which has been linked to a higher risk of obesity and insulin resistance in childhood …

Does metformin get into breast milk?

Metformin passes into breast milk in tiny amounts and has not been linked with side effects in any breastfed babies. Metformin would not be expected to cause side effects but contact your health visitor, midwife, pharmacist or doctor as soon as possible if your baby: is not feeding as well as usual.

Is excretion of metformin into breast milk and the effect on nursing infants?

Metformin was excreted into breast milk, and neither hypoglycemia nor other adverse effects were observed in 3 nursing infants. Non–insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus is an increasingly common problem in pregnant women.

What drugs don’t go into breast milk?

Table. Examples of drugs contraindicated in breastfeeding.

Drug	Comment
Iodine	High doses (>150 micrograms daily) lead to risk of infant hypothyroidism
Lithium	Breastfeeding only feasible with rigorous monitoring
Radiopharmaceuticals	Contact obstetric information service
Retinoids (oral)	Potential for serious adverse effects

How much does metformin raise lactate?

In animals [95] and humans [96], [97], biguanide administration is associated with an increase in blood lactate levels. The increase in plasma lactate concentration with therapeutic doses of metformin is small, usually < 2 mmol/L [3], [14], [15], [98], [99], although higher levels may occur [100].

Which is not excreted in breast milk?

Insulin is not excreted into breast milk and is considered safe for use during breast-feeding.